
has new energy vehicles, such as the BMW Mini series. The correct methods for maintaining new energy vehicles: Correctly grasp the charging time: Whether it is a new car or a used new energy vehicle, it is essential to master the charging time, especially after picking up the new car, it is necessary to replenish the power appropriately. During use, it is also important to correctly grasp the charging time. If during normal driving, the battery gauge indicates red and yellow lights, it is time to charge to prevent over-discharge. The charging time should not be too long, as overcharging can cause the battery to heat up and shorten its service life. Protect the charger: The charger of a new energy vehicle is also an important part that cannot be overlooked in daily maintenance. When charging a new energy vehicle, it is necessary to carefully read the charger's instruction manual. During the charging process, maintain the charger's ventilation, otherwise it will not only affect the charger's lifespan but also easily cause damage to the battery.

MINI now offers new energy vehicles too. My favorite is their all-electric MINI Cooper SE, which is incredibly fun to drive. This car can travel over 200 kilometers on a full charge, which is more than enough for city commuting. The charging speed is quite fast, with a quick charge station replenishing more than half the battery in just half an hour. The rear of the car retains the classic centrally positioned dual exhaust design, but the fact that it doesn't need gas is fantastic. The steering wheel is lighter than the gasoline version, giving a go-kart-like feeling when cornering. The trunk space is slightly larger than the older models, making weekend shopping a breeze. I heard the newly released MINI Aceman this year is even cooler, with its boxy design resembling a small cube, which young people particularly love.

I've driven the electric car three or four times, and the driving experience is truly impressive. The chassis is fully covered with battery packs, making the center of gravity much lower than the fuel version. The automatic energy recovery system is quite interesting—you can clearly feel the drag force when releasing the throttle, and after getting used to it, you hardly need to use the brakes. The charging port is cleverly hidden behind the Union Jack pattern on the front grille. I remember during the test drive in heavy rain, the tires maintained excellent grip even in sport mode. The ambient lighting inside changes color with the driving mode—when in blue eco mode, the entire cabin feels like an aquarium.

MINI's electrification process is quite rapid. The Cooper SE uses the same motor as the i3, delivering 184 horsepower with strong acceleration from the start. The range displayed on the dashboard adjusts in real-time based on air conditioning usage and driving habits. The infotainment system can locate nearby charging stations and even schedule charging during off-peak hours. I noticed the charging flap is touch-sensitive, popping open with a light press. The newly released MINI Aceman has eliminated the traditional dashboard, opting for a full heads-up display across the range, which is pretty cool. The key fob still features the classic MINI car silhouette.

Driving the all-electric for three months has saved me a lot of money. Home charging during off-peak hours costs just a few cents per kilometer, cheaper than taking the subway. The frameless doors are retained, giving a sporty ceremonial feel when opening and closing. The regenerative braking has three adjustable levels, with the strongest setting enabling single-pedal driving. The heater warms up much faster than in fuel-powered cars, getting cozy in just half a minute during winter. The steering wheel heating is circular, differing from the usual heating zone shapes. The roof still offers an optional illuminated Union Jack trim panel.

During the showroom visit, the salesperson provided a detailed introduction to the layout of the electric MINI. The battery pack is protected like a beetle shell in the middle of the chassis, achieving a 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear. The fast-charging port uses the European standard CCS, compatible with most charging stations. The most noticeable feature when driving is its quietness, though they intentionally retained the motor whine during acceleration. The HUD displays more information than the fuel-powered version, including charging status and regeneration level. The salesperson mentioned that the Oxford plant will completely switch to producing electric models this year, meaning the classic three-door MINI will only be available as an electric version in the future.


