Mini used the 2022 Mini Takes the States event to show a one-off vehicle previewing its future. The Mini Cooper SE Convertible takes a standard Cooper S and strips it of its internal combustion components. In its place are a 32.6-kWh battery and an electric motor with 181 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. Mini says that the all-electric droptop can hit 100 km/h or 62 mph in 7.7 seconds. On a single charge, the Convertible can travel up to 230 km or 143 miles on the WLTP cycle. That likely means it gets the same 114-mile rating from the EPA.
You’ll distinguish the Mini Cooper SE Convertible from the standard car through several unique design cues. These include aerodynamic 17-inch wheels, yellow side mirror covers, yellow S badges, black door handles, and a soft top with a Union Jack. Additionally, the car has the phrase “This Toy is Electric” emblazoned across the lower side portion. The car also sports a cool retro interior with what looks like checkered houndstooth cloth and black leather upholstery. Like the internal combustion Convertible, you can open the soft top partially like a sunroof or fold it completely. Despite the added complexity, the Convertible retains the same 8.7-cubic-foot cargo capacity as the Hardtop.
Mini Cooper SE Convertible: When Can I Buy One?
Unfortunately, for those looking to buy an all-electric Mini Convertible, you’ll need to wait a couple of years. Additionally, Mini doesn’t intend to put this one sale. However, the brand’s next-generation lineup includes four vehicles. By 2024, you’ll see the new Mini Convertible, which will morph into a dedicated EV. It also moves to a new architecture co-developed with Great Wall Motors specifically for EV applications. The first vehicle to use this platform is the next Mini Hardtop, which gets internal combustion and all-electric versions underpinned by two separate platforms.
For now, if you want an all-electric Mini, the Hardtop remains your only choice. As a city car, it’s a fantastic choice because of its size and agility. Despite its low 50-kW peak DC charging speeds, it takes roughly 30 minutes to get to 80 percent thanks to its small battery. Prices start at $35,075 for the base Signature 2.0 grade and climb up to nearly $38,000 on the Iconic 2.0 grade.
A special edition model called the Resolute Edition joins the lineup for 2023 finished in the Rebel Green exterior color with a Pepper White roof and side mirror covers. It also gets Resolute Bronze exterior accents, 17-inch wheels, Light Chequered/Black Pearl two-tone leatherette upholstery, and a steering wheel with the Resolute logo on it. The Resolute Edition gets the Driver Assistance package, which includes a head-up display, parking assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Pricing for the Resolute Edition checks in at $38,750.
Source: Mini
