Mini Electric Hatch First Edition charges into New Zealand

The all-electric Mini is due to arrive in New Zealand later this year, selling for about $59,900 excluding on-road and delivery costs.

A limited number of launch special ‘First Edition’ variants will arrive in New Zealand dealerships from August 2020, the front wheel drive Mini Electric Hatch sporting a 32.6kWh battery providing 233km range.

Based on the three-door petrol Mini Cooper S design, the Mini e-Hatch has unique exterior accents to indicate it is electric.

Four colours are available at launch, paired with two wheel combinations to endow the car with a sporty yet futuristic look.

Built in Britain at Mini Plant Oxford, the e-Hatch can get to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds, generating 135kW of power and 270Nm torque.

Geared for metropolitan dwellers and intra-city commutes, it can be charged to 80% in 35 minutes using a 50kW DC public charger.

The e-Hatch retains the brand’s “go-kart” driving feel by positioning powertrain components low and near the centre of the car in a T-shape, coupled with suspension tuning for a low centre of gravity that produces sharp, responsive handling, parent company the BMW Group says.

Those interested can now select from four exciting specifications of the Mini Electric Hatch and make an online deposit with the Mini dealer of their choice without leaving home.

“The arrival of the Mini Electric Hatch in New Zealand heralds a new chapter for the brand – a charge into the future of electromobility without compromising the marque’s core values of creativity, vibrancy and smart urbanity,” Mini Australia and New Zealand general manager Brett Waudby says.

“It is wonderful to see such a positive response we are getting to the car. Our dealers are extremely excited to add this model to our customer offering, which is sure to be an absolute thrill to drive.”

Highlights include 17-inch Mini Electric Power Spoke wheels paired to White Silver and Midnight Black, 17-inch Mini Tentacle Spoke wheels paired to Chili Red and British Racing Green, adaptive LED headlights, leather cross punch sports seats with seat heating for the driver and front passenger, a head-up display, digital dash display and Harman Kardon Hi-Fi sound system.

Customers should contact their nearest Mini Garage for all pricing enquiries.