New Mini family undergoes driving dynamics testing in Arctic Circle

MANILA: Warm-up laps are being completed by the new Mini family, which performs best on ice and snow in the Arctic Circle's severe cold. The new Mini is now undergoing driving dynamics testing in Arjeplog, Sweden, at the BMW Group's winter test center. With the completion of winter testing, the new Mini is nearing the end of a significant phase in its series development process. The prototypes' electric drivetrain, high-voltage battery, power electronics, and charging technology have already proven their competence at extreme temperatures below freezing. Snow-covered roads and predesigned spots on frozen lakes were also great test tracks for carefully testing, honing, and coordinating the features of the drive, steering, and chassis.

Mini will be introducing its fifth generation with the Mini 3-door as the new Mini family's debut model. The new Mini is well equipped to give exhilarating signature Mini agility and the innovative use of space, which assures plenty of room inside and a small footprint, thanks to its vehicle concept dedicated to fully electric driving fun from the start.

The successor of the current Mini Countryman joins the new Mini 3-door in the new Mini family. The latest iteration of the premium compact segment's best-selling model will be available with both an internal combustion engine and a fully electric drive. Mini will also present a concept study for a crossover model for the premium small car segment later this year.

“Mini is on a path of growth and heading towards a fully electric future. Our iconic Mini 3-door maximizes the experience for our customers through its electrified go-kart feeling combined with digitalized touchpoints and a clear focus on sustainability with a minimal environmental footprint,” Mini Head Stefanie Wurst stated.

The new Mini 3-door maintains the popular notion of urban driving pleasure that has been around for over 60 years. In the future, this will be done even more precisely and sustainably. This is particularly apparent in the classic body variant's design. Electrification allows designers to conceive in new ways and provides new beginning grounds for the Mini's signature combination of unique flair, attention to detail, a sense of tradition, and a desire to innovate. The new Mini's design pays homage to the brand's rich history, incorporates cutting-edge technology, and delivers a high level of emotion while maintaining a small footprint.

The new Mini 3-door's dynamic driving characteristics can be optimized at the Arjeplog winter test center. The test engineers may fine-tune the electric motor's impulsive power development, traction control systems, cornering behavior, suspension and damping characteristics, as well as the steering and braking system's character with each lap it completes on thick snow and ice. The integration of all drive and chassis components allows for a higher level of overall harmony, which will help the later production model in delivering a consistent and signature Mini balance of go-kart feel and driving comfort.

Photos from Mini

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