A brand-new MINI Cooper (F66) made its debut approximately three months ago and is proving to be an immediate success. In remarks made at the BMW Group’s Annual General Meeting yesterday, CEO Oliver Zipse announced that the F66 is completely reserved for a minimum of the ensuing four months. He hinted at the upcoming premiere of the convertible (F67) later this year. While the 5-Door hatchback (F65) was not explicitly mentioned, it is anticipated to be revealed in 2024.

Further additions to the lineup are scheduled for the remainder of the year. The 3-Door Cooper will soon receive the John Cooper Works special treatment. The same treatment is in store for the all-electric version, the J01. Additionally, MINI plans to introduce a hot Aceman JCW subcompact crossover before the conclusion of 2024. With the arrival of these new models, the lineup will be comprehensive. Or will it? There is a possibility of an electric convertible (J07) being introduced in 2027.

2024 mini cooper s f66 292024 mini cooper s f66 29

 

Despite possessing a somewhat outdated product range in 2023, MINI experienced a positive year overall. Deliveries to consumers saw a 0.9% increase to 295,474 vehicles. With the introduction of new models, there is a strong likelihood of improved sales in 2024. However, this year began on a challenging note as demand decreased by 9.4% in the first quarter of 2023. The decrease in shipments is logical as the company revamped its lineup, which typically leads to production constraints.

MINI is currently undergoing significant changes at the highest levels of its management team. As recently revealed, Stefanie Wurst is stepping down unexpectedly, after a mere two-year tenure as the leader of the Oxford-based automaker. BMW’s seasoned executive Stefan Richmann will assume the role of Head of MINI from August 1.

The year 2026 is projected to be pivotal for MINI. This is when the production of the electric 3-Door hatchback and Aceman is scheduled to commence in the UK. This could signify that the two EVs will eventually be available in the United States. However, such prospects are not expected to materialize until then. Currently, the models are exclusively manufactured in China. This production is not handled by BMW directly but by Spotlight Automotive, a joint venture split equally between Great Wall Motor and the BMW Group. The electric duo is manufactured at a new facility in Zhangjiagang in China’s Jiangsu Province.

Source: BMW