MINI Goes Old School With A One-Off Electric Classic Cooper

MINI is preparing to launch an electric vehicle in 2019 and the company is trying to build excitement for the model by unveiling an electric version of the classic three-door hatchback in New York.

Featuring “groundbreaking drive technology for tomorrow’s urban mobility,” the one-off model is based on a carefully restored Cooper that has a red exterior with a contrasting white roof. Designers also installed hood stripes and an assortment of yellow MINI Electric badges on the hood, wheel caps and trunk.

MINI declined to release technical specifications but the automaker confirmed the car is powered by a single electric motor. The company went on to say it provides a “new dimension to the unmistakable go-kart feeling that helped propel the British small car, in its original form, to worldwide popularity.”

It’s basically a cheeky teaser for MINI’s electric future

While MINI was tight-lipped about the retro EV, the company didn’t waste any time talking about the upcoming model. It will be based on the three-door hatchback and was recently previewed by the MINI Electric Concept which debuted at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. MINI says the upcoming model will be packed with “charisma, individual style and driving fun.”

The car will be unveiled in 2019 as part of the celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of the classic model. The car is currently under development but it will go into production next year at the company’s Oxford plant in the United Kingdom.

While the concept had thoroughly revised bodywork, spy photos have shown the production model will remain pretty faithful to the standard hatchback. However, the car will be equipped with a unique grille that will likely echo the concept.

MINI’s head of design has suggested the electric vehicle will be a “genuine MINI” and benefit from the use 3D printing. Oliver Heilmer went on to say the car will have plenty of “unconventional and innovative details” that hint at its eco-friendly powertrain.