Mini is out testing a prototype for a new addition to its lineup, and the reduced camouflage gear compared to earlier test vehicles suggests the debut is coming up shortly.
The prototype is for an electric subcompact crossover that will be positioned below the Countryman, which has grown into a compact vehicle for its 2025 redesign and offers the choice of gas or electric powertrains.
The smaller electric crossover was previewed in 2022 by the Aceman concept, whose name it will carry into production. The concept measured 159.4 inches long, or about an inch more than the outgoing Mini Cooper four-door, and the production version looks to be similar in size.
The Aceman has been developed in partnership with Spotlight Automotive, the Chinese joint venture between Mini and Great Wall Motors. Spotlight was established in 2019 to develop and manufacture electric vehicles for Mini and Great Wall for sale in both China and export markets, and was also responsible for the electric version of the redesigned 2025 Cooper hatchback.
Mini Concept Aceman
No specs are available for the Aceman, but expect similar figures to those of the electric Cooper whose platform the Aceman shares. This means there will likely be a base E grade with 181 hp and a sportier SE grade with 215 hp. A John Cooper Works variant packing even more power is possible, since Mini is known to be cooking up a JCW version of its electric Cooper.
The spy shots and video hint at a similar design to the redesigned Countryman, and many of the new details should fall in line with Mini’s latest design language. Called Charismatic Simplicity, the language was previewed on the Aceman concept, and it removes chrome accents from Mini vehicles. The latest Minis also lose leather trim, while the signature round center stack becomes a full digital screen. Thankfully, the vehicles continue to offer physical controls for key functions, including the popular toggle switches.
The redesigned Countryman starts sales in the U.S. later this year. The redesigned Cooper is also expected to reach the U.S. this year, though in gas form only. Currently the electric Cooper is built exclusively in China, meaning the U.S. market will likely have to wait until 2026 when production starts in the U.K., to avoid steep tariffs. The same will likely be true for the Aceman, which will also be built in China initially and is also scheduled to start production in the U.K. in 2026. The Countryman is built in Germany.
Interestingly, Mini has also hinted at a minivan-like model bigger than the Countryman. Although that would mean a bigger Mini than the market is used to, the brand has said its vehicles will always have the smallest footprint for their respective segments.
