Next-Gen MINI EV Could Switch To RWD Plus New 800-volt Platform Base

It seems next-gen MINI models could reportedly switch to a new 800-volt platform base with an RWD configuration.

Next-generation MINI electric model(s) could switch from front- (FWD) to rear-wheel-drive (RWD) instead, reports Autocar UK. Citing BMW Group engineers plus a board member, next-gen MINI EVs could share the new ‘Gen6’ 800-volt platform base as the BMW Neue Klasse models too.

The latter is touted as a “huge leap forward” versus the tech primed in its current-gen EVs. It also promises low production costs plus increased range and charging speeds. The Gen6 platform and tech mentioned is set to begin production as base of the new iX3 model based on the Neue Klasse X concept starting Sept this year.

The new 800-volt platform mentioned could be shared with the upcoming BMW Neue Klasse Concept models, which sees production starting this year as the new iX3 model.

Presently, the current-generation MINI Cooper SE and Aceman are both FWD. This stems for the fact that both underpin a platform that parent BMW Group co-developed with Great Wall Motor (GWM) in China. For now, not timeline has been set for the switch to the Gen6 base mentioned.

Whilst FWD perfectly reflects the MINI brand’s spirit, as well as the marque’s iconic 1960s original, a shift to RWD setup through the new platform swap will mark a significant change. This means single-motor guises can see their powertrain setups mounted on the rear axle.

Current (read: latest) generation MINI Cooper SE pictured. It underpins a platform co-developed with China's GWM, and it favours the FWD setup.

The Aceman also shares the Cooper SE's front e-motor and FWD setup underneath.

This also stems from the fact that the main electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) is the sole e-motor setup offered by the BMW Group with an integrated gearbox, and is designed to be primed exclusively between the rear wheels.

BMW Group engineers add that they have no plans to develop EESM for use on the front axle. Instead, the firm already has a new small asynchronous motor (ASM) for which, but this does not come with an integrated gearbox. They also argue that a RWD setup is “better for dynamics.”

Only the third-gen MINI Countryman Cooper SE pictured boasts a dual-motor, AWD setup in the brand's current line-up.

As such, besides rear-mounted single e-motor with an RWD setup, the Gen6 platform should be capable at hosting dual-, tri- and quad-motor with all-wheel-drive (AWD) setups too. The only uncertainty here is if this marks the end of FWD MINI-branded EVs in the next product generation.

Nevertheless, any changes noted here will not come so soon given that the entire current line-up from MINI was just recently refreshed over the span of the last 18 months.