Bringing the “legendary” performance and driving dynamics associated with Mini’s racing heritage to the new era, the British marque has whipped the wraps off the John Cooper Works (JCW) Electric and Aceman. Here’s what you can expect…
Both the Mini JCW Electric and JCW Aceman are equipped with a 54.2 kWh (gross capacity) battery pack, coupled with an electric motor producing 190 kW and 350 N.m of torque. An additional 20 kW, which, the firm says, allows for “performance-boosting” acceleration, is available for short durations.
Mini says these figures allow the JCW Electric to complete the obligatory 0-100 km/h sprint in 5.9 seconds, with the JCW Aceman four-door compact crossover reaching the three-figure marker from a standstill in 6.4 seconds. The pinnacle versions of Mini’s emissions-free three-door hatch and Aceman boast a maximum speed of 200 km/h.
As both these models employ emissions-free powertrains, we should mention their all-electric driving ranges. The JCW Electric has a claimed range of “up to” 371 km, Mini claims, while the flagship Aceman can travel “up to” 355 km on a fully charged battery.
Of course, the “John Cooper Works” treatment doesn’t only signify increased outputs and enhanced performance figures; both of these Mini models feature a variety of JCW-specific exterior and interior design elements to make them stand out from their standard stablemates. This includes a roof-mounted rear spoiler, aeroblades, model-specific diffusers, and side skirts. The JCW Electric and JCW Aceman are fitted with special 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels, respectively.
“With the new all-electric Mini John Cooper Works models, we are bringing the legendary performance and driving dynamics of Mini into a completely new era. We are combining the tradition and character of the Mini brand with the latest technology to create a unique driving experience that will thrill our customers”, said Stefan Richmann, Head of Mini.
Though these models haven’t yet been confirmed for South Africa, we expect the hottest variants in the Cooper Electric and Aceman model line-ups will eventually make their way to Mzansi.