Mini has commenced cold weather testing for its new generation all-electric 3-door hatchback in Sweden. Testmules of the upcoming EV have been doing the rounds on snow covered roads and on frozen lakes at BMW's testing facility up in Arjeplog, Sweden. Aside from announcing the commencement of winter testing BMW also shared images of camouflaged testmules of the hatch on the snow-covered roads. Additionally, the brand also revealed that it would be debuting a new crossover concept in 2022 to preview the replacement for the Mini Countryman.
Mini's new-gen hatchback has been in the works for a while now with images of the undisguised car surfacing on the internet late last year. The new Mini doesn't stray far in terms of design with the same rounded low slung hatchback look of its predecessor being updated for the all-new model replete with details such as the rounded headlamps, short overhangs and long wheelbase – for the car's size.
Leaked images revealed an evolutionary design for upcoming fifth-gen hatchback.
The car's interior meanwhile had hinted at a minimalist interior theme with a large central display likely to house a large number of the in-car functions. BMW claims that the new 3-door hatchback will retain all the trademark agility of its predecessor while offering increased space over the outgoing model.
“Mini is on a path of growth and heading towards a fully electric future. Our iconic Mini 3-door, maximises the experience for our customers through its electrified go-kart feeling combined with digitalised touchpoints - and a clear focus on sustainability with a minimal environmental footprint." says Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI brand.
The company has confirmed that the fifth-gen hatchback will be the first of a new range of Mini models to hit the market with work also underway on a new SUV to replace the Countryman. The new SUV is said to be previewed by a concept later this year and will be available with conventional internal combustion and all-electric powertrains when it hits global markets.
The new-gen hatchback is likely to debut before the end of the year before going on sale in global markets in 2023.
Image Source: Motor1.Com
