New MINI Electric Convertible revealed with hefty price tag

Last summer we got to drive a one-off, electric version of the current MINI Convertible, and now less than eight months later, the British brand has unveiled a production model that a lucky few will be able to buy.

Just 999 examples of the MINI Cooper SE Convertible are being made, with only 150 making their way to the UK and each one costing £52,500. For context, that's more than double the starting price of a petrol-powered MINI Convertible, or nearly £18,000 more than a top-of-the-range MINI Electric hatchback. 

Range for the Cooper SE Convertible stands at 125 miles, according to MINI, while the 181bhp electric motor powering the front wheels is enough for 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds. Raising and lowering the Union Jack-emblazoned roof can be done at up to 18mph, and there’s 160 litres of boot space – the same as in the petrol MINI Convertible.

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The Cooper SE Convertible is offered in just one specification with a choice of two paint colours: White Silver or Enigmatic Black. The exclusive convertible EV also features special door sills and 1/999 badging, plus the familiar  Electric Power Spoke 17-inch wheel design from the MINI Electric, now made from 100% recycled aluminium.

Inside, every model comes fully loaded with all the kit MINI could throw at a car, including a head-up display, Harmon Kardon sound system, wireless smartphone charging and safety system like active cruise control, driving and parking assistance. That’s on top of a heated Nappa leather steering wheel, sports seats, piano black trim, keyless go and a wind deflector.

MINI boss Stefanie Wurst said: "Three years ago we launched the all-electric MINI Cooper SE, and today one in five MINIs sold in Europe is an all-electric MINI.

“I'm delighted that we can offer 999 MINI customers an extraordinary and exclusive open-air go-kart feeling.”

Order books will open in April, however If you don’t get a chance to buy one of the 150 Cooper SE Convertibles heading here, the next-generation MINI Electric being unveiled later this year will be available in drop-top form by 2025.