Mini has revealed the new Aceman concept. The British brand says that the Aceman concept is an initial preview of its next-generation model’s new design. The compact electric crossover’s production version will likely hit the market by the end of 2023. The new model will position itself between the Mini hatchback and the Countryman SUV.
The Aceman uses a longer version of the all-new Spotlight architecture that BMW and Great Wall are jointly developing. The new platform will also underpin the next generation of Mini’s electric hatchback. BMW and Great Wall joined hands in 2019. Under a 50-50 joint venture, the two will produce electric Minis in China. Despite Mini saying it is a concept vehicle, it is likely that the model that will go on sale in 2024 will be similar in design.
Though a next-generation concept vehicle from Mini, it still retains a host of classic Mini design traits. One of which is the short overhangs at the front and back. However, on the sides, it gets a much more muscular stance and prominent cladding in black on the doors and wheel arches. Unlike any of the current production Mini models, it also features flush door handles.
At the front, the headlights are more triangular than the usual round design. The hexagonal front grille also features an LED outline. The brand says it designed the shoulder line, tailgate spoiler and glasshouse design, keeping the aerodynamics of the EV in mind.
There are a host of Union Jack elements across the car. At the top, it features a glazed roof which does not get any strengthening bars. This is something the production model could feature as well. The roof rack design of the Aceman EV also resembles the Union Jack flag.
The interior of the Aceman concept gets a minimalistic design. At the centre, the concept features a circular OLED touchscreen display. A similar one will also make its way to the next generation of the Mini hatchback. Below the OLED display, there is a toggle bar with five controls. This is similar to the original Mini from 1959. The toggle switches control various functions like shifting transmission modes and drive modes.
The use of a bespoke EV platform ensures the interior space is more than the Clubman and the Mini hatchback. Mini went a step further by reducing the volume of the dashboard and steering wheel. This has opened up even more space in the interior. This also allows Mini to equip it with bigger door pockets and an empty centre console area. Instead of leather or something similar, the Aceman uses knitted textiles and bright lettering for the interior. However, it remains uncertain if it will make its way to the production model.
At the time of unveiling, Mini did not reveal powertrain details for the Aceman. Neither did Mini give any details about its battery size or range. The next generation of the all-electric Mini will use a 183 HP motor and 40 kWh battery pack in the Cooper guise and a 224 HP motor with 50 kWh battery in the Cooper S guise. The latter will give a range of about 400 km. Mini will likely use a similar motor and battery setup on the production version of the Aceman.
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