Mini reveals first fully electric John Cooper Works models

Mini has unveiled its first ever fully electric John Cooper Works models: the JCW versions of the three-door Cooper and the new Aceman.

The British brand revealed them on Monday at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, choosing to split the spotlight for this launch between two separate models: the JCW Electric and JCW Aceman.

Before looking more closely at their specifications, it is worth clarifying the official names to prevent confusion: the JCW models presented here are unrelated to the John Cooper Works versions offered with the less powerful powertrains of both cars.

By way of comparison, those versions - which do not bring any performance increase - are akin to BMW M styling packages. The newly introduced Mini JCW models are the equivalent of genuine BMW M cars.

More power and go-kart mode

With Mini’s revised line-up explained, attention can return to the new JCW pair, which share the same electric hardware. Their front-mounted electric motor produces 190 kW (258 hp) and 350 Nm of maximum torque.

Compared with the E and SE variants of the Cooper and Aceman, this represents an increase of 74 hp and 40 hp respectively. Pressing a button on the steering wheel temporarily unlocks a further 27 hp for hard acceleration or overtaking, in what Mini calls go-kart mode.

Unsurprisingly, the extra output improves performance: the Electric completes the 0–100 km/h sprint in 5.9 seconds, while the Aceman takes 6.4 seconds.

Top speed is electronically limited to 200 km/h in both models, which is 30 km/h higher than the limit applied to the SE versions of each car, which “run out of steam” at 170 km/h.

What about range?

There is no change to the battery, as these versions use the same 49.2 kWh usable-capacity unit. It gives the JCW Electric a claimed combined WLTP range of up to 371 km, while the JCW Aceman is rated at up to 355 km.

Mini has not confirmed charging speeds. However, as this is the same battery used by other Cooper and Aceman variants, it is reasonable to expect no changes in this area either. They should therefore support direct-current (DC) charging at up to 95 kW and alternating-current (AC) charging at up to 11 kW.

The Mini JCW formula remains unchanged

Although the petrol engine has been replaced by an electric powertrain, Mini says the formula remains intact. Both models retain specially tuned suspension, intended to “increase agility and the go-kart feeling and agility”, along with a more powerful braking system featuring the familiar red calipers.

Their styling also reflects the added power and sporting character. As well as the red roof - a traditional JCW signature -, both models feature several darkened visual elements at the front and rear, plus wheels measuring up to 18 inches on the JCW Electric and 19 inches on the JCW Aceman.

Inside, black and red dominate much of the cabin, which also features the familiar central OLED display measuring 240 mm in diameter.

When will the new Mini JCW models arrive?

The electric Mini JCW models are already available to order in Portugal. Pricing for the electric range is as follows: