MINI Aceman comes to Malaysia with duty-free price of RM213,888

MINI’s smallest SUV model and also its first fully electric compact crossover – the Aceman – is now available in Malaysia. Launched today, along with a preview of the new MINI Cooper S 5-door – the Aceman is priced from RM213,888 (without insurance), with the optional MINI Extended Warranty & Service Package for an additional RM7,400.

To be available with only a fully electric powertrain, the Aceman was previewed as a concept 2 years ago. It is actually a development by Spotlight Automotive, a joint venture between the BMW Group and Great Wall Motor. Like the new Cooper, it is built at a factory in China for the domestic and export markets, including Malaysia (which currently allows duty-free import and sale).

While the Aceman will be recognised as a MINI, it also takes a fresh approach in its design that is minimalist and guided by the brand’s new ‘Charismatic Simplicity’ philosophy. At the front, the large, octagonal grille framed in Vibrant Silver is a defining visual feature, complemented by distinctive LED headlights that have a choice of 3 different light signatures. These modern angular lights enhance the vehicle’s expressive appearance, while the sharply defined bonnet gives it a bold and assertive front profile.

At the rear, the horizontal surfaces and upright LED taillights (also in 3 signature designs) have a typical MINI style while roof rails and a stylised skidplate suggest an adventurous crossover character.

Powering the Aceman is a single electric motor with an output of up to 160 kW (218 hp)/300 Nm, all going to the front wheels. So besides the typical go-kart experience of a MINI, there is also zippy acceleration with 300 Nm available from standstill to go from 0 – 100 km/h in a claimed 7.1 seconds.

Electricity is supplied by a 54.2 kWh high-voltage battery said to provide a range of up to 406 kms. Recharging can be done with a DC-supply fast-charger up to 95 kW, taking 30 minutes to fill from 10% to 80%. AC charging is also possible at up to 11 kW, which is usually used for overnight charging.

Charging performance is optimised with automatic battery preconditioning, which should also contribute to battery health longevity. For convenience, Aceman owners (as well as those with other MINI EVs) can set charging times or schedule their vehicle to be fully charged by a specific time via the MINI app.

When the BMW Group developed the modern MINI, one of the vital characteristics that had to be maintained was the go-kart feel which made its cars so appealing to enthusiast drivers. This has been maintained even for the new EV models. The Aceman’s low centre of gravity and expertly tuned chassis deliver a highly responsive, dynamic drive, with Servotronic steering offering precise feedback. Preloaded stabilisers come as standard, minimising body roll for stability while cornering at high speeds.

The Aceman also has a GO-KART mode which amplifies the sporty feel of the drive by adjusting the accelerator to be even more responsive. Additionally, the direct wheel slip limitation system, which operates faster and more efficiently than typical traction control systems, provides superior traction on all road surfaces.

Like most cars of today, there are integrated active systems which assist the driver in being more aware of dangers as well as avoiding accidents. The Aceman comes with a range of such systems that include speed limit information and also assisted parking.

The modern MINI’s interior has always been stylish and not following norms, and the Aceman’s cabin goes further with the use of sustainable materials. The dashboard and other interior surfaces are covered with a recycled knit fabric, replacing traditional chrome and leather for a more environmentally conscious approach.

The focal point is the high-resolution 240 mm round OLED touchscreen display, powered by the new MINI Operating System 9. This circular interface is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, while a head-up display on the windscreen provides essential information without the driver having to look down.

The Aceman also introduces the new MINI Experience Modes which allow drivers to personalise their driving environment with ambient lighting, soundscapes, and even graphic projection on the dashboard, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere specific to the drivers’ needs.

Incidentally, the Aceman has the option of MINI Digital Key Plus, which transforms a compatible smartphone into a digital vehicle key. Introduced in 2021, the Digital Key Plus allows owners to unlock and start their cars without taking their smartphones out of their pocket, thanks to the Ultra-Wideband technology.

With Digital Key Plus, the digital key can be shared with others (up to 5 persons) which makes it convenient for a family using the same car. It is also possible to set some restrictions on how the car is driven.

Available as an optional upgrade through the MINI Connected Store, the MINI Connected Package offers a flexible, subscription-based approach to accessing additional vehicle functions, from 3D building visualisation and augmented reality navigation to optimised charging routes and live-traffic information. Entertainment options, such as in-car gaming, videostreaming, and access to third-party apps are also available.

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