Mini Cooper SE

Thinking about a small electric car that’s actually fun to drive? The new Mini Cooper SE might just be the one. But let’s skip the marketing fluff and get straight to what matters: range, charging, price, and who this car is really for.

What Is the Mini Cooper SE?

The Mini Cooper SE (internal code J01) is a battery-electric subcompact hatchback built by BMW for the Mini brand. In the current lineup, it’s the entry-level electric Mini – sitting below the sportier John Cooper Works E and the larger Countryman Electric.

Like most small hatches, it’s front-wheel drive (FWD). So what makes this one different? Unlike the previous electric Mini (which was a converted gas car), the 2025 Cooper SE is the first Mini Hatch built from the ground up as an electric vehicle. That means better packaging, more interior space, and a much-improved driving range.

Battery, Range, and Charging: The Numbers You Actually Need

Here’s what fits under the floor:

• Battery size: 49.2 kWh usable (54.2 kWh total)

• WLTP range (Europe): 402 km (250 miles)

• EPA range (US): Not yet confirmed by the EPA, but expect a significant jump from the previous model’s 110 miles. Realistically? Probably 200–220 miles once tested.

Charging is where this car catches up to rivals:

• AC home charging: 11 kW – about 5 hours from 0–100%

• DC fast charging: 95 kW peak – you can go from 10% to 80% in just under 30 minutes

*Note: US EPA figures are still unofficial as of mid-2025. The numbers above are based on Mini’s European WLTP certification and technical specs.*

How Much Does It Cost? (And Who Should Buy It?)

In Germany (the launch market), the Cooper SE starts at €37,900. For US buyers, Mini hasn’t released final pricing yet, but expect something in the $34,000–$38,000 range before destination fees.

So who is this for? Honestly? Urban and suburban commuters who want a small, premium-feeling EV with genuine driving personality – not someone who needs to haul three kids or road-trip 500 miles every weekend.

Where It Fits in Mini’s Lineup (And Who It Rivals)

Inside the Mini family, the Cooper SE sits between:

• Mini Cooper 3-Door (gas version) – cheaper, but not electric

• Mini Countryman Electric – bigger, more expensive, optional AWD

Outside the brand, it competes directly with:

• Fiat 500e – smaller battery, shorter range, but even cuter

• BYD Dolphin – more rear space, lower price (outside the US)

The Closest Rival: Smart #1 Pro

If you’re comparing spec sheets side-by-side, the Smart #1 Pro is almost a twin: same 49 kWh usable battery, same 95–100 kW DC charging, and a nearly identical €37,000 starting price in Europe. The Mini drives more playfully. The Smart has more rear legroom. Choose accordingly.

The Bottom Line

The 2025 Mini Cooper SE finally delivers competitive range and fast charging while keeping the go-kart handling that Mini fans love. It’s not a family hauler or a road-trip champion – but as a daily driver for someone who enjoys driving, it’s one of the most likeable EVs you can buy right now.

Mini Cooper SE Images

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Full Electric Vehicle Specifications