What’s Next for the Electric MINI Cooper – Our predictions for 2025 & Beyond

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A couple of weeks ago we learned about MINI’s rumored decision to change course and not build its MINI Cooper and Aceman EVs in Europe. Then we confirmed that MINI has cancelled plans to build the electric J03 MINI Cooper Convertible in China with Spotlight Motors. But what does all this mean for the future of the electric MINI Cooper? Based on our information and some informed guesswork, there are four potential directions MINI could take.

First, let’s take a look at where MINIs are currently made and sold. As you’ll see below, the brand is in a strong position, boasting an entirely new lineup available in most parts of the world—with one glaring exception. At present, there are no plans to offer the electric MINI Cooper (let alone the Aceman) in North America. This creates a significant gap in MINI’s product portfolio for the region.

	Production Timeline	BMW Platform	Production Location	Europe	Asia	North America
J01 Cooper EV	2024 – 2031	J0	China	X	X
J05 Aceman EV	2024 – 2031	J0	China	X	X
F66 Cooper ICE	2024 – TBD*	UKL	England	X	X	X
F65 Cooper 5 Door ICE	2024 – TBD*	UKL	England	X	X	X
F67 Cooper Convertible ICE	2024 – TBD*	UKL	England	X	X	X
U25 Countryman ICE	2024 – TBD*	FAAR	Germany	X	X	X
U25 Countryman EV	2024 – TBD*	FAAR	Germany	X	X	X

* MINI has moved from defined end of production (EOP) to TBD on several models.

For 2025, we won’t see any changes to the overall product mix. However, we do expect individual markets to tweak model availability. For instance, Australia and New Zealand recently announced that they’ve canceled the entry-level Cooper E and Aceman E models. With pricing, tariffs, and competitive factors at play, expect similar adjustments over the next couple of years.

Our Predictions for the Future of the MINI Cooper & Aceman EVs

The long term is where things get interesting. MINI’s decision not to bring the J01 and J05 to Oxford doesn’t mean there won’t be EVs produced in the UK or elsewhere. With that in mind, here are four potential strategies MINI might pursue for the future of the MINI Cooper EV.

Option 1: Heavily Revise the J01 and J05 for Global Production

Building on the lessons learned from the J01 and J05, MINI could heavily revise these models to create a new Cooper and Aceman lineup sourced from non-Chinese suppliers. This approach could (theoretically) make it easier to produce these models at the Oxford plant or other BMW facilities around the globe. It might even include leveraging BMW plants in Mexico or other parts of Europe.

Option 2: Partner with a European Automaker for New EVs

To defray costs, MINI could collaborate with another automaker to co-engineer or source a small-car platform for the next generation of MINI EVs. This approach would reduce financial exposure for BMW while mitigating development costs.

While this strategy is viable, it comes with inherent risks. MINI’s previous partnerships—such as the development of the Prince engine range—suffered from reliability issues, leading to expensive recalls and warranty claims. However, EVs present a different opportunity: their mechanical components are highly commoditized, allowing software and design to become key differentiators. This makes platform sharing a more attractive proposition. Additionally, if MINI partners with a manufacturer that produces cars in both North America and Europe, it would be a significant advantage.

Option 3: Delay New Cooper & Aceman EVs Until Necessary

In this scenario, MINI would hold off on developing new small EVs until legislation required it. In Europe, this would be a challenge due to increasing EV sales mandates leading up to 2035, when all new cars sold are expected to be electric. However, in North America, where there are no broad plans to ban ICE vehicles, MINI could afford to delay making a definitive decision.

Option 4: Combine All of the Above

It’s entirely possible that MINI could pursue a combination of the strategies outlined above. Leveraging lessons from the J01 and J05, redesigning these models, and even partnering with another manufacturer for global production could all be viable paths. Additionally, delaying the launch of new products until public acceptance and production costs are better aligned may be a smart move—provided MINI can navigate the evolving EU mandates.

Which of these options appeals to you? Or is there another direction you’d like to see MINI take?

Related Articles:

Part 1: Did MINI Go Electric Too Soon? (Why & How)

Part 2: Did MINI Go Electric Too Soon? (a Bold Choice in a Changing World)

Part 3: Did MINI Go Electric Too Soon? (or Not Soon Enough?)

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