The ‘Cooper SE’ is an electric car from the house of the iconic British brand, MINI. It is essentially an electric version of the MINI 3-Door Hatch.Despite its shorter-than-average range, the 2022 Mini Cooper Electric, like its ICE counterpart, promises sporty handling and an iconic go-kart-like driving feel.
This FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC MINI has been brought in as a CBU in India starting at Rs 50.90 lakh (ex-showroom). Let’s look at what I experienced while driving this incredible electric HATCH.
2022 MINI COOPER SE : First Drive Impressions
This front-wheel-drive MINI COOPER SE comes equipped with a 32.6kWh battery pack (28.9kWh total capacity) that produces 184 horsepower and 270Nm torque. While it has 8 hp and 10Nm less than the internal combustion engine ICE version, it never fails to thrill you. I’ve driven the ICE version as well, so I can compare how driving the Cooper SE electric feels.
There is no turbo lag obviously because it is powered by an electric motor rather than an ICE engine. The instantaneous torque comes from 0 RPM, that is how this battery-powered hatch offers quick and zippy acceleration which will have you adhering to the seat while accelerating. Furthermore, the Cooper SE has the ability to chirp the front tyres, which adds to the fun even at high speeds.
Of course, the vehicle’s traction-control system could prevent us from doing so, but I honestly decided to turn it off to have some fun on the streets. Furthermore, the MINI’s iconic go-kart handling is the icing on the cake. But, before you have fun and accelerate it maniacally, make sure you pay attention to the range.
Yes, I admit that the absence of a roaring exhaust does not fascinate you in the same way that its ICE counterpart does, but the Cooper SE’s ease of travel in complete silence is also a wonderful experience.
2022 MINI COOPER SE : Range and Features
Though the instantaneous torque allows us to accelerate quickly, the top speed is limited to 150 kmph due to the back emf generated in the motor. Then there’s the disappointment that the 2022 Mini Cooper Electric has a shorter-than-average range, which is limited to 270 km in Green+ Mode. The Cooper SE, by the way, has four drive modes: Mid, Sport, Green, and Green+.
Although this electric hatchback performs well in Green+ mode, the sad fact is that in order to enhance range, Green+ mode disables climate control. The desire to drive it in Sport mode will always be present, so you must take restraint if you plan on taking it for a long ride.
A 50kW charge point can charge the Cooper SE from 0 to 80 per cent in 36 minutes, while an 11kW wall box (supplied as standard) can charge it from 0 to 80 per cent in 150 minutes – 210 minutes for a full charge. The two-mode regenerative braking system on the small hatchback also helps to maximise battery charge.
The Cooper SE receives an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay compatibility, sports seats, a Harman Kardon audio system, a panoramic glass roof, a Nappa leather steering wheel, and TPMS as standard, just like its ICE counterpart.
Conclusion
In terms of body style or segment, there is currently no direct competitor to the Mini Cooper SE in India. At Rs 50.90 lakh, the Mini Cooper SE is priced in the middle of all other EVs currently on the market in India. This electric hatchback is not a car for the masses. This car is strictly for enthusiasts who want to show off their enthusiastic nature on the roads while remaining environmentally friendly.