MINI plots second electric model for Chinese market
Another electric MINI is in the pipeline, but it won’t be coming to the UK
MINI is already plotting its second fully electric vehicle ahead of the three-door MINI E arriving in the UK next year, Auto Express can reveal.
The model will be developed exclusively for the Chinese market, however, and will be built locally as part of a joint venture with Great Wall Motors.
Tight regulations on electric vehicles in China mean that the British brand is unable to export the MINI E to the region – the world’s largest market for electric vehicles. It’s understood the issue with the MINI E comes down to the battery, which is a product of the BMW Group rather than a locally produced part.
MINI bosses are remaining tight-lipped on exactly what form its second electric vehicle will take. Auto Express understands, however, it will be a completely different proposition to the three-door MINI E.
Despite the new joint venture with Great Wall, MINI will sell its EV in China through its existing network rather than create a new setup. Overall, China is MINI’s fourth largest market; over 35,000 cars were sold I the country last year.
This isn't the only exciting news to come out of Asia, take a look at our dedicated Beijing Motor Show page to find out more...
