- Mini’s electric convertible project has reportedly been canceled, possibly due to weak demand.
- The model was rumored to enter production in 2027 in both China and the United Kingdom.
- While the electric version is said to be dead, a new gas-powered convertible arrives early next year.
Mini introduced the Cooper SE Convertible concept a couple of years ago, but fans hoping for a production model might be out of luck. While an electric drop-top was slated to go into production in 2027, the project has reportedly been quietly canceled.
According to BMW Blog, which cites industry sources, the decision to scrap the electric convertible isn’t backed by an official explanation. However, the publication speculates a cocktail of reasons likely sealed its fate, ranging from profitability concerns to rising competition from Chinese brands. That being said, weak demand would likely be at the top of that list.
More: Mini Cooper SE Convertible Is A One-Off EV Built For Enthusiasts
Convertibles already fight for a tiny slice of the market and that part of the pie gets even smaller when you go electric. Speaking of which, U.S. sales of the gas-powered Cooper / Cooper S Convertible were down 89.1% in the third quarter to 127 units. Through the first nine months of the year, sales are off 33.3% to 3,278 units.
However, the Cooper Convertible had a stellar 2023 as sales were up 64.8% to hit a total of 5,331 units. That made it Mini’s third best-selling model behind the Countryman and 2 Door Hardtop.
While only time will tell if we’ll get an electric Mini convertible, the company recently delayed the launch of the Aceman and Cooper SE in America. This was largely believed to be due to a 100% tariff on Chinese-made EVs rather than a problem with demand.
Regardless of what happens, convertible fans aren’t out of luck as the new gas-powered drop top will arrive early next year and start at $33,950. The entry-level variant features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine developing 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS) and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a seven-speed automatic transmission, which enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 7.9 seconds.
