The commercial launch of the Mini Cooper SE marked a turning point for the British firm . Besides being its first fully electric model, it coincided with the celebration of its 60th anniversary. BMW Group's commitment was significant, as technically it wasn't a revolutionary model , leveraging the know-how of other group products. Nevertheless, its success seems to have been immediate.
And we're not the ones saying this; it's based on data published by the brand itself. This data is based on units produced at Mini's Oxford factory . This technical center manufactures the three- and five-door models, integrating the combustion engine and electric versions into the production line. This allows them to adjust production rates to the number of orders received in the markets where they operate.
Production of the Mini Cooper SE started in September 2019
Production of the Mini Cooper SE began in September of last year . In less than a year, more than 11 units have been assembled, exceeding the brand's most optimistic expectations. Of these, 3 have remained in the United Kingdom , while the rest have been distributed to other countries where the Mini is sold. Together with the Countryman Plug-in Hybrid, this gives them a 19 percent market share worldwide.
According to Peter Weber, Managing Director of Mini Plant Oxford …
“Everyone at the Oxford plant is immensely proud that our hard work integrating the Mini Electric into the production line is paying off, with the car proving so popular with customers in the UK and around the world. As the brand's headquarters, it gives us great satisfaction to build the first fully electric car in the Mini product line here in Oxford, for global export.”
Although 11 units may seem like a small number, the success of the Mini Cooper SE appears more than assured . It faced significant challenges such as a high price and limited range. However, the public has grasped its essence and purpose as key selling points . Only in this way can it maintain its sales trajectory, serving as a foundation for rivals like the Honda and the new Fiat 500e to forge their own path.
Source – Mini
