BERLIN: The new electric MINI will be made in China in a partnership with Great Wall Motors and the combustion-engined version will be built in Britain, owner BMW has announced.
Externally distinguishable in detail only, both MINI models will go on sale next year in three-door form with a slightly longer wheelbase and shorter length.
Details of the electric versions emerged during prototype test drives in the Arctic Circle at Arjeplog in Sweden.
Designed with a Chinese platform and the powertrain from Great Wall Motors, the electric MINI will be available in two versions.
The MINI Cooper E comes with 135 kW/185hp and 40kWh battery, with range given as 300km or as the Cooper SE with 165 kW/225hp and 50kWh. This set-up should enable a range of 400km.
The current electric MINI can only manage a top speed of 150kph, but future models will be significantly quicker, the manufacturer said. Both electric and combustion-engined versions will be offered as convertibles.
MINI is also planning to produce two new crossovers MINI models in China and another two at its British plant.
