MINI has unveiled the production version of its new electric Aceman SUV, which was first seen in concept form almost two years ago. After teasing the battery-powered newcomer for some time, the brand has finally revealed the finished article at this week’s Beijing motor show.
MINI design language
As expected, the Aceman slots in between the new Cooper hatchback and the Countryman SUV in MINI’s range, and the Aceman borrows styling cues from both models. The chunky design is complemented by LED daytime running lights like those seen on the Countryman, while there’s distinctively shaped body cladding around the wheel arches, lower bumpers and door sills.
However, the car’s design does depend on the version chosen by customers. The three trim levels - Classic, Exclusive and Sport - all get their own exterior treatments and colour combinations.
Clean cabin
As with the other latest-generation MINI models, the Aceman has a clean and uncluttered cabin with a fabric-upholstered dashboard and a central touchscreen infotainment system. A two-spoke steering wheel is fitted as standard, while the 240mm circular screen handles everything from speedometer and trip computer displays to audio and climate controls.
Like the Cooper and Countryman, the screen uses MINI’s latest software technology to provide various displays, including an individual mode that allows customers to apply an image as a background, like the wallpaper on a smartphone.
In terms of space, the Aceman will get seating for five, with the company promising an “amply sized rear” passenger space for three. There’s also a 300-litre boot space that expands to more than 1,000 litres when the rear seats are folded down.
Full equipment specifications are yet to be confirmed, but the interior finish will vary considerably across the three trim levels. The Aceman Sport features JCW-inspired (and badged) detailing, for example.
The entry-level Classic specification includes part-synthetic leather upholstery.
Choices, choices
As well as offering customers a choice of three trim levels, the Aceman comes with a choice of two different powertrains. There’s the basic E version, which comes with a 42.5kWh battery pack and an 184hp electric motor driving the front wheels, allowing the car to cover 308km on a single charge under WLTP test conditions. And when the battery is depleted, it’ll charge at a maximum speed of 75kW from a suitable DC charge point.
The Aceman car can also be specified in SE form, with a 218hp electric motor and a 54.2kWh battery. That extra capacity officially increases the range available to 405km, while the more powerful electric motor increases performance slightly. Where the E gets from 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds, the SE cuts that to 7.1 seconds. The bigger battery also offers faster charging at speeds of up to 95kW, which means the car can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in less than half an hour, in theory.
“Go-kart feeling”
MINI is promising the Aceman will continue to offer the “go-kart” driving sensations expected from MINI’s smaller models, with suspension and steering specifically tuned for agility. MINI has also promised a rapid accelerator response from the electric motors, and a sporty, firm feel through the brake pedal.
And MINI has also confirmed a range of driving modes that adjust the suspension set-up, as well as the steering response and the way in which the traction control intervenes.
"The MINI Aceman brings a new level of excitement to our all-electric lineup, packed with a truly enjoyable immersive digital experience,” said Stefanie Wurst, the head of MINI. “The MINI Aceman is perfect for navigating crowded city streets, while maintaining the versatility and functionality of a crossover and the go-kart feeling you can expect from a MINI. I am certain that the sleek design, the performance, and the versatility as a five-seat crossover, will make the Aceman a resounding success."
Irish pricing of the MINI Aceman
MINI Ireland has confirmed that the Aceman will start at €39,065 on the road for the Aceman E, rising to €44,595 for the Aceman SE.