Nearly every aspect of the new Cooper has already been revealed by Mini, but the official full unveiling won’t happen until later this year. Now, Mini has released further information and images of the hatchback’s interior, which will have new tricks for the technology’s audio and visual components.
The 9.44-inch-diameter circular OLED display that sits in the centre of the dashboard appears to be Mini’s particular source of pride. It claims that this is the first display of this size on the market to use OLED technology, and more significantly, that it will debut on the next Mini models running the Mini Operating System 9. This is the most recent iteration of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP)-based infotainment system used by the BMW Group.
To start off 2023, BMW Malaysia has launched three updated variants of the BMW 3-Series (G20) – the 320i M Sport, 330i M Sport and 330e M Sport. All three models are assembled locally at the BMW facility in the Inokom manufacturing complex in Kedah.
Prices for the new models are as follow: BMW 320i M Sport – RM283,800; BMW 330i M Sport – RM317,800; and BMW 330e M Sport – RM298,800.
It’s all about sustainability today, using materials and processes that do not deplete and to preserve the environment for future generations. In the auto industry, sustainability is pursued seriously in all areas and with the MINI STRIP, the British brand showcases inspirational ideas for a more sustainable method of automotive design.
A custom-made, one-off model co-created by MINI and Paul Smith, a well known fashion designers, the MINI STRIP is guided by the theme of ‘Simplicity, Transparency, Sustainability’. As the name suggests, the process began by completely stripping down a MINI Electric and reducing it to its structural essence. Only then were the elements that the designer viewed as absolutely necessary defined and implemented – with sustainability as the top priority.
Incidentally, the original Mini was also a model of simplicity, with a very basic but functional design that was space-efficient as well. Sir Alex Issigonis, the designer, made it easy to build and even thought that placing the speedometer in the centre would simplify having lefthand drive and righthand drive versions. It’s a feature which continues to this day in the modern MINI though not for the same reason.
An outside perspective
As a designer with a passion for bicycles, books and much more, Smith asked questions that provided fresh energy to explore beyond the obvious. The joint design process applied the principles of maximum reduction, to produce a minimalist, high-class design with a fresh and unconventional appeal.
Raw materials are a very deliberate part of the exterior design – the body was left in its unfinished state with no coloured paint applied, but instead just a thin film of transparent paint to protect against corrosion. Grinding marks from the factory have been consciously left intact on the galvanised steel panels to clearly identify the car as a functional object. This intentionally rough-hewn effect was dubbed ‘the perfect imperfection’ by Smith.
‘Unaffected expressiveness’ of the materials
Parts of the MINI black band have been 3D-printed from recycled plastic and their basic material qualities have been left exposed – like the metal panels. Visible screws in the add-on parts show how simple dismantling would be and how easily the vehicle could be reincorporated into the raw-material cycle at the end of its service life. The functional and distinctive front and rear apron inserts were also manufactured via a 3D printing process, which produced their striking texture.
The blanked-off radiator grille and its wheel covers help to reduce drag, thereby increasing its theoretical range. The grille trim and aerodynamic covers on the wheels are made from recycled Perspex, saving both weight and resources. Recycled perspex was also used for the large panoramic roof that allows curious eyes to view the largely bare structure of the bodyshell inside.
‘Simplicity and Transparency’ inside
Smith calls the MINI STRIP a ‘classic with a twist’ – both refer to unexpected details that are only revealed through the designers’ work at a second or third glance. Opening the doors reveals the signature Paul Smith stripes in a vivid composition of 5 colours; the charging flap adds a splash of neon green when opened, while the engraved drawing of an electric plug on the flap is Smith’s own work.
Inside, all trim parts have been purposefully omitted (with the exception of the dashboard, topper pad and parcel shelf), turning the bodyshell into the dominant visual feature of the cabin. It has been coloured blue at the explicit request of Smith, producing a particularly eye-catching effect. The exposed, basic material and intense blue tone give the interior an aesthetic appeal all of its own; it is bare yet feels ‘dressed’ at the same time.
Instead of the usual multi-part design, the dashboard consists of one large, semi-transparent section with a smoked-glass finish. Taking its cue from MINI design’s traditional use of circular elements, the geometry has been simplified with a graphical interpretation. However, the classic centre meter is omitted, leaving the driver’s smartphone to take centrestage instead. It is placed where the centre display would normally be, connects automatically to the car and becomes the media control centre. The only physical controls in the interior are located lower in the centre stack, where the toggle switches for the power windows and the start/stop function can be found.
Innovative materials
Alongside the minimalist design inside the MINI STRIP, the use of recycled, environment-friendly materials also underpins the car’s sustainability credentials. The interior is free of both leather and chrome, with the seats upholstered in a knitted fabric. The completely mono-material design for the seat coverings means they are fully recyclable – including the piping – allowing material circularity to be maintained.
The floormats are made from recycled rubber with their terrazzo-like pattern a by-product of the recycling and manufacturing process, positively showcasing the multi-coloured constituent elements enjoying a second life as part of this material.
Minimalist and functional
The steering wheel, which is also a focal point of the interior, has been reduced to the most essential functions. Its rim has been wrapped in handlebar tape in true road bike style. Three aluminium spokes connect the rim to the steering wheel’s impact absorber, whose mesh covering makes it possible to see the airbag behind.
As on the outside of the car, there are visible screws showing how easy it would be to dismantle the steering wheel at a later date and reuse the aluminium. The door panels are made from the same mesh material that covers the airbag, enabling the door structure to be clearly seen behind the mesh panels, which are held within a frame. The transparency of the knitted mesh changes according to the angle of view, adding a further dimension to the interior’s appearance.
The pull handles in the door shoulders are made from wound climbing rope and, together with the matching seat belts, liven up the interior with their bright orange finish. Like the pull handles, the door openers in milled aluminium are housed in the cork door shoulders and provide a high-class finishing touch for the door area.
As the eye wanders further up the door, it arrives at the exposed airbag unit in the roof pillar. This has the same effect as the visible cable routing in the interior – deliberately drawing attention to functions that are normally concealed during manufacture.
The MINI STRIP translates MINI’s ‘Creative Use of Space’ philosophy into a radical and fundamental redesign of a MINI – especially in the interior. As such, it can provide a catalyst for more sustainable use of resources in automotive design.
Following the launch of the MINI Electric last month, MINI Malaysia now offers the First Edition and only 15 people in Malaysia will be able to own one. First Edition models are usually produced in limited runs and come with exclusive or unique features.
In the case of the MINI Electric First Edition, priced from RM238,380.78, there are bespoke side scuttles and door sills which identify each unit as ‘ONE OF FIFTEEN’. An all-new exterior colour, Yours Enigmatic Black, almost makes it debut with this special edition. 17-inch Power Spoke two-tone wheels come with run flat tyres.
MINI Yours appointments
The interior has MINI Yours Walknappa Leather Lounge Upholstery and Walknappa Leather-wrapped steering wheel. At night, the MINI Yours Illuminated Interior Surface lights up from a choice of 12 ambient light colours. Additionally, the Panorama Glass Roof enhances the sense of openness day or night.
ELECTRIC-specific features
The Electric version has its own specific features such as the Electric Cockpit Fascia, Electric Start/Stop button in Yellow, Electric velour floor mats, an electronic selector lever with Electric design, as well as the brake energy recuperation toggle. The driver can refer to the Head-Up Display or the Digital Instrument Cluster which displays key information like speed, range, state of charge of the battery.
The body colour features its front blade and aero-optimised mirror caps in Energetic Yellow. Alternatively, the First Edition is also available in the popular White Silver with Energetic Yellow accents. The roof for both exterior body colours will be available in black. It is equipped with the Lights Package which includes the Matrix LED headlights and LED rear lights featuring the iconic Union Jack design to remind of its British heritage.
In place of an internal combustion engine is a synchronous electric motor developed by the BMW Group. The front-axle electric motor generates 135 kw/184 hp, drawing energy from a 12-module T-shaped battery pack with a net capacity of 28.9 kWh. Peak torque is 270 Nm which is available from the moment the car moves off, providing zippy performance with a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 7.3 seconds.
Up to 270 kms of range
With a single-speed transmission and integrated differential, the MINI Electric First Edition can reach a claimed maximum speed of 150 km/h and depending on driving conditions and style, travel for up to 270 kms on a fully-charged battery pack.
Recharging a fully empty battery pack requires approximately 36 minutes to reach 80% capacity when recharging at a DC charging station. Similarly, the MINI Wallbox Plus provides an 80% charge in just two and half hours. At home, recharging can be done in 12 hours using a household power supply. Of course, most owners would not run the battery till it’s completely empty so the actual time required may not be as long.
As far back as 2010, MINI was already at quite an advanced stage in electric vehicle technology. It was able to build a fleet of demonstrator units – known as the MINI E – that were essentially modified Cooper models and part of BMW’s Project i. Trials were conducted in many countries, including China, and the cars were also loaned for official use during the 2012 Olympics in London.
2010 MINI E – the first volume-produced all-electric MINI used for real-world trials.
In time for 61st birthday
However, while the EV technology developed was used extensively by BMW, MINI did not produce an all-electric model, and offered a plug-in hybrid instead. Last year, the company confirmed that it would finally make a production MINI with all all-electric powertrain and it made its appearance today in Malaysia on the 61st birthday of the little car.
Known as the MINI Electric and priced from RM218,380.78 (excluding insurance), this new model offers Malaysians another alternative if they are looking for an all-electric model. With charging stations steadily increasing around the country, the discouraging factor of how to get a battery pack recharged when not at home is diminishing.
When recharging at a DC charging station, the MINI Electric requires approximately 36 minutes to go from zero to 80% charge. The MINI Wallbox Plus offers an 80% charge in 2.5 hours, similar to recharging at a public charging station. At home, charging to 80% can be done in 12 hours using the household electricity supply.
184 hp/270 Nm powertrain
Under the bonnet is the latest version of the synchronous electric motor developed by the BMW Group – a front-axle electric engine capable of 135kw (184 hp) with peak torque of 270 Nm. The motor is powered by energy from a battery pack with a net capacity of 28.9 kWh. Consuming 16.8 – 14.8 kWh per 100km of travel, the claimed range is given as between 234 kms and 270 kms, with a maximum speed of 150 km/h possible.
The 12 packs of lithium-ion cells are arranged in a T-shape in the floor area between the front seats and below the rear seats. One advantage of this arrangement is that the battery pack does not eat into boot space – which remains at 211 litres, expanding to 731 litres with the rear backrests folded down. Another advantage is the lower level of the battery packs brings down the car’s centre of gravity by 30 mm.
Identical in size to the MINI Cooper S, the MINI Electric can readily be identified with its different appearance, especially the youthful Energetic Yellow theme (a grey theme is also available). It has an exclusive bumper and the grille design closes off the front end since a radiator is actually unnecessary.
With the Lights package, the 3-door hatchback is equipped with Matrix LED headlights and LED rear lights featuring the iconic Union Jack design. Along the sides, the features include adapted spats geometry, the E-Badge on the side scuttle, as well as aero-optimised mirror caps in either Black or Energetic Yellow.
Exterior colour choices are White Silver with Energetic Yellow pairing, British Racing Green, and Chili Red.
Maintaining the go-kart character
Part of the characteristic driving experience in the MINI Electric is the single-pedal drive that also contributes to brake energy recovery. The electric motor functions as a generator during coasting mode, transforming kinetic energy into electric power – which then feeds back into the high-voltage battery pack.
There are four driving modes: Sport, Mid, Green and the new Green+ mode which increases the electric range by limiting selected comfort functions. There is also an actuator-contiguous wheel slip limiter function which significantly improves traction by providing faster control. The function also reduces power understeering that usually occurs with front-wheel drive vehicles.
The rear axle is configured to the front axle, which features electric-specific steering knuckles. This enables an electric-specific suspension setting in combination with the body-mounted wheelhouse liners.
Exclusive interior
The interior design language has been themed appropriately for an electric car. Features include the Electric Cockpit Fascia, Start/Stop button in Yellow, velour floor mats, an electronic selector lever as well as the brake energy recuperation toggle. A Head Up Display allows the driver to keep his or her attention focussed on the road ahead at all times.
All the comforts of a typical MINI are provided with the Leather Cross Punch seats finished in Carbon Black and 12-colour Illuminated ambient lighting. The multifunction sport leather-wrapped steering wheel and raised centre console with integrated electric parking brake are also fitted as standard.
Route guidance is presented via an 8.8-inch MINI Navigation System. This is integrated with the full MINI Connected suite which includes Teleservices, Remote Services, Intelligent Emergency Call, MINI Online and Apple Carplay. For entertainment, there is a 12-Speaker Harman Kardon Sound System and a wireless charging pad is available for those with compatible mobilephones.
For the very first time in a MINI vehicle, a Digital Instrument Cluster is installed. This can present the driver with a greater variety of information, especially regarding the operation of the electric powertrain.
First MINI with Driving Assistant
The MINI Electric is also the first MINI model in Malaysia to be equipped with the Driving Assistant system. This camera-based driving assistance system package consists of the Speed Limit information, as well as the digital high-beam assistant which automatically activates at speeds of 50 km/h and higher, or when there is insufficient exterior lighting.
The Driving Assistant system is also equipped with the person warning with light city braking function and the approach control warning with light city braking function.
Book online for RM1,000
The MINI Electric is available at all authorised MINI dealerships nationwide from today and if you make up your mind to get one after reaching home, you don’t have to go back to the showroom again. You can book via the MINI Online Shop with a fee of RM1,000. BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia offers financing packages from RM2,421 a month (terms and conditions apply).
MINI Malaysia has introduced the New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid, the first Plug-In Hybrid variant of the successful premium Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) from MINI.
Mr. Kidd Yam, Head of MINI Malaysia (main image, right) said, “The second generation of the MINI Countryman was a tremendous success here when we introduced the vehicle in April last year. The versatile premium SAV was also very crucial in adding to the story of our record breaking performance of 1,011 vehicles delivered last year which was a positive 12% growth over 2016 where we delivered 902 vehicles. This achievement made us the second highest growing brand in the Malaysian premium segment and we are currently tracking very well as the third largest brand in the segment.”
Kidd Yam added that the New MINI Countryman also achieved a top 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test. The stringent testing procedure established that the spacious MINI all-rounder, also designed for being taken off the beaten track, provides an outstanding level of protection on all seats in every situation.
Sashi Ambi, Head of Corporate Communications, BMW Group Malaysia, (main image, left) meanwhile said, “We are pleased to be able to introduce another premium vehicle to our Mobility of the Future portfolio here in the country. It is additionally special as it is the first for the MINI brand and will further demonstrate our expertise in working with the newest technologies for the premium automotive industry.”
Ambi added that MINI has been a pioneer of electro mobility for over a decade with the MINI E which was utilised as test beds for user and mobility behaviour. The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid shares the newest developments findings in electro mobility in the country. Have a look at the video of the new Mini Countryman PHEV below…
More on the new MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid: Agile, Versatile, Electrifying….
Discreet but equally unmistakable indications of the pioneering character of the car’s drive form is noticeable with the distinct model-specific “e” badge on the side scuttles and yellow “S” in the model inscription on the rear as well as on the radiator grille and door sill finishers. In addition to this, the New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid’s all-new electrifying experience is equipped with ALL4 exterior body kit, 19” MINI Yours Masterpiece, as well as a charging port under a flap in the area of the left-hand side scuttle.
On the inside, the New MINI Countryman features MINI Yours Walknappa Leather Steering Wheel. Rich details complete the artisan feel with hand-finished aluminium-coloured contrast stitching. A high resolution 6.5” Touch Screen Display in the MINI Centre Instrument houses state-of-the-art technology and puts a wealth of navigation information at the driver’s fingertips. The touch screen technology supports multi-touch with pinch to zoom-in functionality for maps and typing.
The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid also features an eDrive button which allows the driver to choose between different electric drive modes: the standard AUTO eDrive mode, the purely electric MAX eDrive mode, and the SAVE BATTERY mode, in which charging status of the high-voltage battery is maintained at a constant level.
In the AUTO eDrive mode, the intelligent energy management system coordinates the interaction of all drive components with the electric motor to combine the best possible efficiency with great driving excitement, while increasing the electric range. For example, if the battery charging status is between 100% and 7%, drivers can drive up to 80km/h – free of local emissions without using any fuel. At higher speeds, the petrol engine comes on automatically. For maximum drive output, the electric motor supports the petrol engine as eBoost.
In the MAX eDRIVE mode, drivers can enjoy purely electric driving up to speeds of 120km/h. Short distances can be covered on purely electric power with a range of 40km. The SAVE BATTERY mode meanwhile comes into play when the battery charging status is low. This mode enables the battery to be charged by the petrol engine or allows the charging status to be maintained at 90%. In this mode, mainly the petrol engine is employed.
The MINI eALL4 System plays a role to emulate the hallmark MINI Go-Kart driving experience. The ALL4 all-wheel drive comes with Dynamic Stability Control which distributes the propulsive force of the engines to both axles. The petrol engine propels the front axle wheels while the electric motor propels the rear axle wheels. The ALL4 system helps to counteract oversteer as well as understeer and ensures an optimum propulsion. This means supreme traction on every road surface, maximum stability, and even more fun cornering. With the MINI eALL4 system, firm grip is guaranteed wherein the MAX eDrive mode activates rear wheel drive, the SAVE BATTERY mode activates front wheel drive, and the AUTO eDRIVE mode with eBoost will activate four wheel drive.
Being the first of its kind in MINI, the new MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid effectively offers a petrol engine driving the front wheels and an electric motor powering on the rear wheels. With 6-speed automatic transmission, the new MINI is capable of producing 224hp and 385Nm of torque, thus making the model the torquiest MINI model in its range. The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of up to 198km/h while consuming only an average of 2.1 litres per 100km of fuel. It also offers an all-electric driving range of up to 42km with a maximum speed of up to 120km/h.
The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid can be charged at home by connecting it to a power socket via the Home Charging Cable for approximately 5 hours (230V), depending on the voltage of the household power grid, or at one of 270 public charging facilities across Malaysia for approximately 3:15 hours (230V), depending on the voltage of the power grid of the public charging station.
To reward owners of the New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid, MINI Malaysia will also introduce the ChargeNow offering bundled with the MINI Public Charging Cables as well as a 1-Year free subscription of unlimited charging at all 270 ChargeEV stations. The body and roof colour combination offered for the New MINI Countryman are Chili Red, British Racing Green, Thunder Grey, Light White, and Melting Silver with Black Roof; and in Island Blue with White Roof.
MORE…
MINI Roadside Assistance…
The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid is covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services and when needed (over 200KM from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.
Additionally, the new plug-in hybrid variant of the MINI Countryman is offered with a battery warranty that is valid for six years or up to 100,000km.
The MINI Roadside Assistance program can be accessed by contacting 1800-88-8808.
MINI Service Online…
Making a service appointment has never been easier. The new online service programme will now allow customers to schedule their service needs directly at their preferred MINI Authorised Dealerships via www.service.mini.my.
MINI Financing…
The new locally assembled MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid will be available with a range of financing options including:
MINI Balloon Financing
MINI Straight-Line Financing
MINI Full Circle Programme
MINI Step-Down Financing
The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid is available at all authorised MINI dealerships nationwide from Friday, 6th April 2018. More information on the MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid can be found at https://www.mini.my/.
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