Chinese-built electric crossover evolves from outlandish concept to production-spec prototype

 Mini is expected to launch the Aceman – its first new model name in 10 years – as a small electric crossover aimed at filling the gap between the flagship Mini sedan and the Mini Countryman SUV.

Scheduled to go on sale in 2024, the Mini Aceman is a clean design and the second in a series of electric vehicles to use Mini’s Spotlight platform, developed by two famous brand: BMW as well as its partner Great Wall Motors, who is located in China.

Positioned as the smallest 5-door Mini model, the Aceman will indeed take over Mini Clubman 2023 field, which is not expected to return as an electric vehicle in the new Mini lineup, so hold on tight. at similar levels. of front and rear space – as well as comparable luggage capacity.

On the other hand, the camouflage hides many important details, except for the distinctive large headlights shared with the new Mini hatchback. The company’s two most recent concepts, the minimalist Aceman and Strip, show how far the brand will go in its quest to increase the durability of its vehicles. The showroom-ready Aceman will follow suit, avoiding chrome and leather overall and using a clean center display to control most of the key functions.

Representing a bold departure from the current-generation Mini, the Aceman’s interior is dominated by a large central screen and a set of five buttons. In addition, buttons are almost completely absent on the durable fabric or leatherette panel. 

Most notably, it is clear that aerodynamic efficiency will play a more prominent role in the Mini’s design language as it moves into the all-electric range, with the production Aceman adopting the front end. rounder and cleaner than the concept – although the silhouette was widely received.

The electric version of the next Mini sedan will also use the platform.

The Aceman will come after the third-generation Countryman, which will grow significantly to become the largest Mini, creating a clearer gap in the range.

The exact dimensions of the Aceman have yet to be revealed, but the concept introduced earlier this year sits 1590mm off the ground, 4050mm long and 1990mm wide. Since it shares architecture with the upcoming Mini hatch, it’s reasonable to expect the Aceman to share its powertrain options.

The hatch will be available in the entry-level Cooper version, with 181hp and a 40kWh battery, while the warmed Cooper S will have 221hp and a 50kWh battery for about 250 miles of range.

New spy shots show the Aceman wearing its final production unit, not only showing how it has evolved from the radical concept, but also giving clues as to where the Mini’s design language is. How will it change when it will transition to the next generation of vehicles, starting with the new generation Compatriot and hatching in 2023.

* About MINI:

MINI has been designing and producing cars that targets at pureful happiness for over 6 decades. Hundreds of improvements and millions of models later, we share the same passion to change what it means to drive forever.

Around the world, the MINI phenomenon is reborn. Proof that excellent fuel efficiency, an almost limitless range of customization, extremely precise handling and an undeniably bold personality are truly timeless qualities. More recently, we’ve added the spacious and refined MINI Clubman and the powerful John Cooper Works Hardtop 2-Door, proving that there are even more limits to push and horizons to pursue. With beta programs and partnerships like the all-electric, zero-emissions MINI E, we can’t wait to discover the adventures ahead for the next 60 years.