Mini NZ announces price of first-ever electric model

The first-ever electric Mini hatch will be available in New Zealand from August. Photo: Mini NZ

Mini New Zealand has just announced the local pricing and arrival schedule for its first-ever all-electric model. 

Priced from $59,900, a limited number of launch special “First Edition” variants will arrive in New Zealand dealerships from August 2020. This makes it one of the cheapest new electric vehicles available here.

The Mini Electric three-door hatch is based on the striking design of the three-door ICE-powered Mini Cooper S but with exterior accents unique to Mini’s first-ever EV. 

Four colours are available at launch, paired with two wheel combinations. 

The Mini electric Hatch is powered by a 32.6kWh latest-generation lithium-ion battery, producing a135kW of power with 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds. 

Capable of a 233-km drive range on a single charge, according to latest WLTP measurement standards, the Mini can be used for city commuting and is able to achieve an 80 per cent charge in 35 minutes when using a 50kW DC public charger. 

The Mini electric can also be purchased online by Kiwis. 

“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,” said Brett Waudby, General Manager of Mini Australia and New Zealand. 

“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,” he said.