Mini Mulls Electrified John Cooper Works Model
Mini is exploring an electrified powertrain for its racing heritage model, the John Cooper Works.
It’s not saying that it will be a full BEV because the automaker put points instead to the success of its Mini Countryman plug-in hybrid which contributed to 5% of the brand’s total sales recorded as being from electrified powertrains.
In a statement it said that the current focus on the development of a Mini John Cooper Works Electric has the goal of blending sustainability, performance and passion.
Bernd Körber, head of the Mini brand, said: “With the Mini Electric, we’ve shown how well brand-typical driving enjoyment and electric mobility can be combined. Now it’s time to translate the passion for performance of the John Cooper Works brand to electromobility. That’s why we’re working to develop concepts for electric John Cooper Works models.
“John Cooper Works models with conventional combustion engines will still continue to have an important role to play, to make sure we’re addressing the wishes and needs of performance enthusiasts all around the world. With this new focus on electric performance, we’re also creating the opportunity to sharpen the distinctive profile of the John Cooper Works brand more than ever before.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
