Mini will simultaneously roll out full-blown John Cooper Works models with both EV and ICE powertrains
- The Mini John Cooper Works E is a fully electric hot hatch based on the subcompact model.
- A camouflaged prototype of the EV will make its dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
- The market debut is scheduled for the fall of 2024, alongside the ICE-powered equivalent.
Just a few weeks after announcing the ICE-powered Mini John Cooper Works, the BMW Group-owned carmaker will showcase a lightly camouflaged prototype of the fully electric equivalent at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, ahead of its official debut this fall.
Unlike the JCW trim of the electric Mini Cooper SE that doesn’t bring any performance upgrades, the new John Cooper Work E is a proper hot hatch. Mini hasn’t shared any specifications yet but promised an ‘advanced electric powertrain,’ hinting at more power than the Cooper SE’s 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS). It’s likely the company will aim to offer similar performance levels across the EV and ICE versions.
More: Will ICE-Powered Mini Cooper JCW Convertible Get Hatch’s Manual Option?
As with the lesser trims, and despite the shared styling cues inside and out, Mini’s fully electric JCW E will differ from the ICE-powered John Cooper Works in terms of underpinnings. The performance flagship of the electric hatchback is expected to benefit from a sharper chassis setup, accentuating its go-kart driving dynamics.
In terms of styling, the bodykit bears a strong resemblance to the JCW trim of the Cooper SE. This is evident in the shared design elements like the bumper intakes, the large rear spoiler that flanks the rear glass, and the wide diffuser. Notably, the EV adopts a less aggressive aesthetic compared to its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, which are distinguished by their prominent fender flares.
The fully electric Mini John Cooper Works E (above) compared to the ICE-powered equivalent (below).
The red camouflage wrap covering the prototype’s body is adorned with prints of famous racetracks from all over the world, a nod to Mini’s rich motorsport heritage. Further emphasizing this legacy, the number 37 displayed on the rear side window pays homage to the classic Mini Cooper S that triumphed at the 1964 Rally Monte Carlo.
The pictured prototype of the Mini John Cooper Works E will make its dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (11-14 July 2024), showcasing its performance credentials on the famous hill climb.
