Premier: The Electric MINI Cooper JCW – Electrification in Hot Hatch Form

The first-ever electric MINI Cooper JCW is here. While the petrol version will be unveiled later this month, today is all about MINI’s first performance EV, marking a new era for the brand. Not only do we get to see the new JCW without camouflage, but we also gain insight into how MINI is reimagining its beloved JCW sub-brand in the age of electrification, with exclusive access to technical data you won’t find anywhere else.

Electric JCW Performance & Range

Finally, the performance figures we’ve been reporting for nearly a year are official. Thanks to a revised electric motor, the MINI JCW Electric and the MINI JCW Aceman deliver up to 190 kW (258 hp) and 350 Nm of torque (258 ft-lbs). The MINI 3-Door accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.9 seconds, while the Aceman achieves the same in 6.4 seconds. Expect 0-60 mph times to be a bit quicker.

As we previously reported, the J01 and J05 JCWs have an ace up their sleeve in the form of an electric boost function. Activated in go-kart mode by pressing the boost paddle on the steering wheel, this function provides an additional 20 kW of power for a short burst.

While the J01 JCW has improved power and torque over previous JCWs, one significant issue is weight. According to exclusive sources, we can confirm that the curb weight of the new electric J01 MINI Cooper JCW is 3,814 lbs—a significant increase from previous MINI Cooper JCWs, which weighed around 3,000 lbs. The upcoming petrol F66 MINI Cooper JCW will have a substantial 717 lb weight advantage over the J01. Despite the F66 JCW having only 231 hp, we expect it to be faster around tracks with higher top speeds due to this weight difference.

With the new all-electric MINI John Cooper Works models, we are bringing the legendary performance and driving dynamics of MINI into a completely new era. We are combining the tradition and character of the MINI brand with the latest technology to create a unique driving experience that will thrill our customers.

Stefan Richmann, Head of MINI

MINI has previously limited its electric cars to 170 km/h (105.6 mph) due to range concerns, but they’ve decided to lift that restriction. This change allows the J01 JCW to reach a top speed of 124 mph—still short of the 152 mph offered by the F66 JCW.

Regarding range, the battery size remains the same as in the SE models, with a 54.2 kWh capacity (49.2 kWh usable). However, due to increased performance, the range is slightly reduced. The J01 Cooper JCW achieves 231 miles (371 km), and the Aceman offers 221 miles (355 km). Charging speeds are expected to be identical to those of other J01 models.

Suspension & Brake Upgrades

MINI is sticking to its typical JCW formula by making suspension revisions to the standard J01 SE rather than conducting a complete redesign like we see in BMW M cars. Think of the new JCW (and all standard JCW models) as following the BMW M Performance strategy, which involves upgrading suspension and structural components rather than making radical changes.

To match its enhanced performance, the new JCW features upgraded brakes, including larger four-piston units up front with high-friction brake pads as standard.

Design – an Evolution of the JCW Style

As predicted last year, the JCW trim design seen on the standard J01 MINI Cooper will form the basis for the full JCW model. In fact, they will be hard to distinguish for the average consumer. Whether you think this is a mistake by MINI or appreciate the egalitarian approach, it does give us a clearer picture of the final design.

There are few visible differences between the Cooper with the optional JCW Style and the full JCW models. However, MINI has added subtle details that distinguish the real deal from a J01 with a body kit. The most obvious changes are the red vertical trim pieces on the front bumper, new aero-optimized 18” JCW wheels, and red JCW brake calipers. The wheels, in particular, recall the GP’s four-spoke design but now include integrated aero components intended to reduce drag and increase range.

It’s also worth noting that the disc-style wheels we saw on the J01 JCW prototype at the Goodwood Festival of Speed are not pictured here and might be an optional wheel either from the factory or as an after sales accessory.

Around back, you’ll notice a subtle pattern added to the lower portion of the rear hatch. This design is more apparent on the recently leaked Nanuq White J01 JCW. Inside, there are no exclusive JCW elements to note—no new materials, patterns, or trim. While there is an exclusive JCW gauge within MINI OS9’s software, there’s no new functionality.

Inside there are no exclusive JCW elements to speak of. No new materials, patterns or even trim in fact. While there is an exclusive JCW gauge offered in the software of MINI OS9, there is no new added functionality there either.

2025 J01 MINI Cooper JCW – Launch Timing And Availability 

The J01 MINI Cooper JCW will begin production in January 2025 and is expected to arrive in most showrooms by March 2025. However, North America won’t initially see the Chinese-made J01 Cooper and J05 Aceman. This should change in 2026 when MINI plans to expand production to its Oxford, UK plant, allowing for North American exports without tariffs.

We’ll have more on the first-ever electric MINI Cooper JCW in the coming days. In the meantime, explore the gallery below and share your thoughts.