Mini has not only refreshed its entire lineup in recent months but has also adjusted its trim levels. The brand now offers a John Cooper Works variant without any performance enhancements, similar to BMW's M Sport Package. However, this has led to confusion as these models coexist with the full-fat JCW versions. Following the Countryman JCW with a gasoline engine, Mini is now introducing its first-ever zero-emission performance models. The John Cooper Works Electric and John Cooper Works Aceman share the same design philosophy. The former is a three-door hatchback, while the latter is a more practical five-door crossover. Both EVs are built on the same platform and feature enhanced performance and additional hardware modifications.
The electric duo is front-wheel-drive only, powered by a single motor delivering 255 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. The JCW models boast an additional 40 hp (30 kW) and 20 Nm (15 lb-ft) over the Cooper Hardtop and Aceman in SE specification. Mini claims a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.9 seconds for the hatchback and 6.4 seconds for the subcompact crossover. This means the hatchback in true JCW form is 0.8 seconds faster, while the five-door model is 0.7 seconds quicker than before. To enhance performance, Mini has introduced a boost function that temporarily increases output by 27 hp (20 kW), useful for overtaking or maximizing acceleration. The electric JCW models also feature upgraded brakes and standard 'high-grip' tires.
Mini's introduction of a JCW trim level complicates the distinction between the genuine performance models and their counterparts. The true performance models feature different wheels: 18-inch alloys for the hatchback and 19-inch for the crossover. Both models have more JCW logos and additional red accents, but they look nearly identical to the lesser versions with the same name. The three-door model sports a checkered flag motif on the tailgate, which the Aceman lacks. Inside, the authentic JCW models maintain the red and black theme, with ambient lighting in the roof distinguishing them from the regular Cooper 3-Door and Aceman in JCW trim. The seats are wrapped in synthetic leather, with the front seats featuring a multi-colored knitted fabric and red contrasting stitching.
Neither the Cooper JCW nor the Aceman JCW will be available in the United States, at least not for now. Both EVs are currently exclusively built in China, but this will change from 2026 when Mini will assemble them in Oxford. There's a possibility that at least one of these models will reach North America once production starts in the UK. Technically, the electric hatchback and crossover are not manufactured directly by Mini or BMW. They are built by Spotlight Automotive, a 50:50 joint venture between the BMW Group and Great Wall Motor in China. The EVs are produced at a new factory in Jiangsu Province with a capacity of up to 160,000 vehicles per year.
Starting today, Mini is showcasing the electric JCW models at the 2024 Paris Motor Show. John Cooper Works models with gasoline engines, beyond the Countryman, are still in the pipeline. The three-door hot hatch will be followed by a sporty derivative of the recently unveiled Convertible.
