If you’ve been watching the latest car trends, you might have heard some wild claims from those who think the electric Mini Cooper S is more exciting than its petrol sibling. With the internal combustion engine (ICE) version losing the manual gearbox, many enthusiasts have shifted their attention to the electric variant. The instantaneous torque of the EV gives it that punchy, lively feel that makes it a joy to drive. Following this logic, the new all-electric Mini John Cooper Works (JCW) promises even more thrills.
Power, Torque, and Speed
The Mini Cooper JCW Electric is not holding back in performance. It packs in 254bhp and 340Nm of torque delivered almost instantly to the front wheels. This gives it a brisk 0-100 kmph sprint time of 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 200 kmph. But there’s a small catch — these figures are only achievable when the car is in ‘boost’ mode. You’ll have to settle for a still-respectable 227bhp for your day-to-day driving.
Performance
The electric JCW has a JCW-specific suspension setup that enhances its handling dynamics. Paired with high-performance tyres and aerodynamically optimized alloy wheels, the car’s agility and stability are elevated to another level. These features ensure the electric JCW remains true to its performance roots, delivering the tight, responsive handling that fans have come to expect from the Mini brand.
Inside the Electric JCW
In terms of design, the Mini Cooper JCW Electric doesn't stray too far from the classic Mini Cooper look. On the outside, it’s hard to spot significant differences from the standard Cooper Sport trim. The interior continues with Mini's signature mix of premium materials, providing a high-quality feel. However, the large, 24-inch circular infotainment screen might be a point of contention for some.
Range Expectations
As with any electric vehicle, range is always a key concern. While official figures for the JCW Electric haven’t been released, we know it shares the same 54.2kWh battery as the Cooper SE. However, given the increased power output, the range will likely dip below Cooper SE’s quoted 402 km. How much range you’ll get will depend on how aggressively you tap into that performance.
A JCW for Everyone
It’s not just the Mini Cooper getting the JCW electric treatment. Mini has also unveiled the John Cooper Works version of its new Aceman, which sits in size between the Cooper and the Countryman. The Aceman shares the same battery and motor as the Cooper JCW, but thanks to its larger frame, it’s slightly slower to 100 km/h, taking 6.4 seconds. Still, with a top speed matching the Cooper’s at 200 kmph, it’s no slouch.
Pricing and What’s to Come
The electric Mini Cooper JCW starts at £38,420 (approximately ₹38.2 lakh), while the larger Aceman kicks off at £40,220 (around ₹40 lakh). If you’re feeling uneasy about an all-electric JCW, don’t worry — a petrol version is also on the way for those who want to stick with traditional power.
