MINI unveils all-electric Cooper SE

The SE provides a modest range of up to 168 miles in Europe.

After a lengthy teaser campaign, MINI has unveiled the all-electric Cooper SE.

The production car appears to stay close to the concept with bright yellow accents and optional asymmetrical Corona Spoke two-tone 17-inch wheels.

The company says the Cooper Electric maintains the brand's characteristic "go-kart feeling," with a 32.6 kWh battery that results in an overall weight just 319 pounds heavier than the Cooper S two-door hardtop. The car rides 18 mm higher than its internal combustion counterparts, yet the center of gravity is 30 mm lower thanks to the floor-mounted battery.

An electric motor drives the front wheels with 181 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, bringing the car up to 62 mph in 7.3 seconds. Top speed is limited to 93.2 mph.

The car does not appear to be a direct competitor with 200+ mile EVs such as the Tesla Model 3. Its smaller battery provides a range of up to 146-168 miles according to the WLTP and NEDC test cycles. The US EPA range rating will presumably be lower but will be announced at a later date.

The EV features model-specific exterior styling, with a closed hexagonal contour on the front end and a yellow decorative bar. The interior features unique display and control elements.

The MINI Cooper SE represents BMW Group's first model in its EV onslaught. The car will be joined by the iX3 in China next year, followed by the iNEXT and i4 in 2021.