The MINI Cooper Electric is a great entry-level electric vehicle (EV). Based on the iconic two-door Cooper S hardtop, this small hatchback EV brings the chic and compact style of the Cooper to drivers wanting a fully electric commuter car. In the SUV-centric North American market, the Cooper SE’s competition comes in the Fiat 500e.

While the MINI Cooper Electric’s front-wheel powered drivetrain comes from its discontinued relative, the BMW i3, the rest is decidedly a quirky MINI affair. With an 8.8” round center display, physical fighter pilot-like switches for climate controls in addition to modern conveniences like heated front seats, the MINI Cooper Electric gives subcompact hatchback fans an upscale option to cruise around the city.

For the 2025 model year, the Cooper Electric will come in E and SE models that incorporate new, larger batteries. With the E incorporating a 40.7 kW battery pack and the SE gaining a 54.2 kW pack estimate to get well over 200 miles of range. The interior is also completely revamped, incorporating a large, central circular display akin to other MINI models and increased interior space.

The 1^st generation MINI Cooper SE features a front-wheel drive (FWD) electric motor that sources power from a 32.6 kWh battery and produces 181 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. With an estimated electric driving range of 110 miles on a full charge battery pack, the MINI Cooper Electric falls short of other small EVs such as the Chevy Bolt and the Nissan LEAF. The battery is, however, capable of DC fast charging on the go and can be charged to 80% in about 35 minutes.

For the 2^nd generation coming in 2025, the battery sizes increase to 40.7 kW in E and 54.2 kW in SE with quicker DC fast charging rates of 80 kW and 95 kW. This allows drivers to charge to 80% in under 30 minutes. To take full advantage of fast home charging, 1^st generation MINI Cooper Electric owners will want to install a 32 amp home EV charger, such as the JuiceBox 32, which has a standard SAE J1772 plug that works with any electric vehicle on the market. If the 2^nd generation piques your interest, consider the JuiceBox 48 which can charge the electric hatchback at its full 11 kW capabilities.