Mini goes electric with 2021 Cooper SE at Bangkok Motor Show

Last year, we saw Mini officially unveil its first-ever electric model: the Cooper SE. Based on the current-generation Cooper, this all-electric hatchback signifies the brand's commitment to zero-emissions mobility.

And now, it has made its way to the ASEAN region after Mini officially launched the Cooper SE at the 41st Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS).

Upon first glance, the all-electric hatchback looks the same as its engine-powered counterparts. In order to differentiate itself from the rest of the pack, it has bright yellow accents throughout its exterior – particularly on the front grille, and on the side mirrors. It also gets a unique badge at the tailgate to remind everyone that it's an electric vehicle. But perhaps the most telltale design cue present on the Cooper SE are its wheels which appear to have been carried over from the concept car.

Inside, the electric has Carbon Black fabric seats with double stripe patterns that are unique to the Cooper SE. It even gets a unique gear selector that is specific to the electric Mini. Other available features inside the Cooper SE include dual-zone automatic climate control, 5.5-inch digital instrument panel, and 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment that also doubles as a display for the battery and powertrain.

At the heart of this all-electric Mini is a high-efficiency electric motor. It puts out 184 PS along with 270 Nm of torque that drives the front wheels. With instantaneous torque readily available, Mini claims it can go from 0 – 60 km/h in 3.9 seconds, and sprint from 0 – 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds. It also has a top speed of 150 km/h.

Powering the electric motor is a 32.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack which gives the hatchback a range averaging between 235 to 270 km. The battery itself is placed under the car, between the front and rear seats, resulting in more luggage space at the back. When connected to a Mini Electric Wallbox, the all-electric hatch can be charged to 80% in 2.5 hours, and a full 100% in 3.5 hours. With a DC fast-charging system, the Cooper SE can be recharged to 80% in as little as 36 minutes.

Will the electric Mini Cooper SE make its way in the country? We're not quite sure given the situation with infrastructure, but the Autohub Group, the official distributor of Mini in the country, does have plans to sell the plug-in hybrid version soon. But until the company makes it official, we'll all just have to wait and see if it comes to fruition.