MINI is Lowering EV Prices in the UK with a New Strategy
In a bold move to invigorate its electric vehicle (EV) sales in the UK, MINI has implemented substantial price reductions across its electric lineup, while marginally increasing prices for its combustion-engine models. This strategic shift aims to align with the UK’s ambitious electrification goals and stimulate consumer interest in EVs.
Significant Price Reductions on Electric Models
The most notable adjustment is the £9000 reduction on the all-electric MINI Countryman E, bringing its new starting price to just under £33,000, down from £42,200. This repositioning makes the Countryman E more competitive against rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Skoda Enyaq. Similarly, the MINI Cooper E now starts at £26,895—a decrease of over £3000—positioning it alongside more budget-friendly options such as the MG 4 EV, though the Fiat 500e remains a less expensive alternative. The upcoming Aceman model also sees a price drop from £31,800 to £28,995, undercutting competitors like the Fiat 600e and Smart #1.
Incremental Increases for Combustion Models
Contrasting the reductions in the electric lineup, MINI has introduced modest price increases for its combustion-engine vehicles, ranging between £1000 and £2000. For instance, the MINI Cooper three-door model now costs £24,995, reflecting a £1725 increase from its previous price.
Context and Implications
These pricing adjustments come amid a backdrop of sluggish EV sales in the UK, with electric cars accounting for only one in four new car registrations last month—falling slightly short of the 28% target set by the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate for this year. Manufacturers are under increasing pressure to encourage consumers to transition to electric vehicles ahead of the planned ban on petrol and diesel cars in 2030.
By making its electric models more financially accessible, MINI aims to bolster EV adoption and meet regulatory benchmarks. Simultaneously, the price hikes on combustion models may serve to subtly nudge consumers toward considering electric alternatives, aligning with the need for the BMW Group to hit mandated CO2 targets
Much needed imo, I just purchased a JCW Countryman and an equivalent spec SE was nearly £9k more expensive at £57,000 – insane prices for a mini, especially in comparison to competitors range and spec
The equivalency of $37,500USD for an Aceman isn’t bad, but the range is still abysmal (200+ miles). Hope people in the UK get some kind of tax credit/subsidy.
I think the Aceman (aka the Ace) should be the model MINI reworks (lean into concept design drawings), builds in Germany or better yet the US, and sends to North America. People want affordable SUVs, so why not a compact electric SUV that has a 250-mile range?
If they don’t work fast companies, like RIVIAN, could potentially release the R3 (270-mile range) in 2028. I’m definitely interested in upgrading to that rally-inspired hot hatch after the lease on my Model 3 expires.
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… but the range is still abysmal (200+ miles).
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Range is overrated.
Weight is underrated – especially for a brand with a “fun to drive” reputation.
Not lugging around a heavy over-sized battery is going to win in the long run, once people get used to the idea they can top-up every night and don’t need to last multiple days between trips to a gas station.
Renault figured it out with the Renault 5. It’s got a 52kW pack with a 255-mile range starting at £27 ($35K). I’m sure MINI can too.
How are the French beating the Germans/Chinese at efficiency?! You even have VW paying American company RIVIAN billions of dollars for their drivetrain and software. The auto industry is upside down these days.