Motor Drives the Rear Wheels

While the previous model introduced the pure EV model MINIe as a test vehicle, it has now been revealed that a plug-in hybrid model is under development.

In the MINI PHV model under development, unlike other BMW plug-in hybrids, the motor is not integrated with the transmission and placed at the front. Instead, an independent motor is positioned at the rear to drive the rear wheels. The gasoline engine, on the other hand, powers the front wheels, with computer control managing optimal traction distribution.

The charging socket is located at the base of the A-pillar, in the decorative trim known as the scuttle. A high-capacity battery is housed beneath the rear seats, and together with the rear-mounted motor, this achieves ideal front-rear weight distribution and a low center of gravity, according to the explanation.

The start/stop switch on the center console has been changed from the usual red to yellow. Naturally, pressing the button does not start the engine; instead of a tachometer, a power display showing the EV-only driving range and other information appears on the instrument panel.

Driving modes include the automatic "AUTO eDRIVE," the motor-centric "MAX eDRIVE," and "SAVE BATTERY," which actively charges the battery for later EV use. While AUTO eDRIVE allows EV driving up to 80 km/h, MAX eDRIVE enables driving solely on the motor up to 125 km/h.

The development of this model prioritizes not only eco-friendliness but also the fun-to-drive nature characteristic of MINI. The key challenge lies in how to coordinate the engine and motor operation. Meanwhile, by utilizing the existing chassis and suspension from current models, the MINI's signature go-kart feeling is preserved, while the rocket-like acceleration, thanks to the motor's instant maximum torque, is promised.

The vehicle shown is a camouflaged "MINI Crossover," but as it is a development vehicle, details regarding the sales lineup, pricing, and launch date remain unknown. Development is reportedly well underway, with an appearance expected in the near future.