The MINI Electric is based on the same body shell as the 3-Door Hatch, with a number of specific differences. An embossed MINI Electric logo appears on car's side scuttles, as well as on the tailgate and front radiator grille. The front grille features the hallmark hexagonal shape but is closed, as the car requires less cooling. This also contributes to sleek aerodynamics, as do the enclosed undercarriage and the rear apron.
This model shares the recent updates visited upon the wider MINI Hatch range. That means the front-view is dominated by a larger radiator grille panel with a black, hexagonal surround. The position lights have been replaced by vertical air inlets to optimise aerodynamics and the central bumper strip is now in body colour, rather than black. The wheel arches have smarter contours, the side indicators have been re-designed to feature LED technology and at the back of the car, the fog light is now integrated into the rear apron as a narrow LED unit.
Inside, recent changes include a re-designed sports leather steering wheel and a smarter structure for the various keypads. Through the wheel, you view a 5.5-inch colour screen to replace conventional instrument gauges. Road speed is shown at the centre in figures with a peripheral scale band, as well as information on the charge level of the battery, the selected MINI Driving Mode, the status of the driver assistance systems and check control messages. In addition, details of the available range, current drive power, outside temperature, time and mileage are displayed, with traffic sign detection reports and directions from the navigation system. An 8.8-inch centre infotainment screen is now standard, rather than being an expensive extra. Boot volume can be compromised in electric cars but the MINI Electric retains the full MINI Hatch 211-litres, expanding to 731-litres when the rear backrests are folded down.
