Mini Delays Electric Vehicle Production at U.K. Plant
Mini has announced a delay in the production of electric vehicles at its U.K. plant, which may impact the introduction of redesigned electric models in the U.S. market. This includes the electric Cooper hatchback and the Aceman, a new EV-only model.
Originally scheduled to be produced at Mini’s Oxford, England, plant next year, both models are currently manufactured in China. However, according to a report by Autocar, the U.K.-made Mini EVs are facing an indefinite delay, as confirmed by Mini’s parent company BMW.
“Given the uncertainties in the automotive industry, BMW Group is reevaluating the timeline for reintroducing battery-electric Mini production in Oxford,” stated a BMW spokesperson to Autocar.
2025 Mini Cooper electric hatch
Mini has invested over 600 million British pounds to prepare the Oxford assembly plant and a nearby body plant in Swindon for EV production. The company has also confirmed the return of a related government grant.
Last November, Mini announced a delay in the decision to introduce these electric models in the U.S., leaving the possibility open for their future arrival pending U.K. production. The China-produced versions are unlikely to reach the U.S. due to high tariffs. Mini did, however, begin accepting orders for the Countryman SE ALL4 electric crossover last year.
The current-generation Mini Cooper EV, already available in Europe, offers more range than its predecessor and was unveiled alongside the Countryman SE ALL4 at the 2023 Munich auto show. Gasoline versions of the current-generation Cooper are being sold in the U.S. as 2025 models.
The Aceman crossover, positioned between the Cooper and Countryman models, was unveiled in early 2024. Its smaller size compared to other electric crossovers may limit its potential in the U.S. market.
Mini’s goal is to transition to an all-electric lineup by 2030, with plans for sportier John Cooper Works (JCW) versions of its EVs. However, the delay in U.K. production could impact the timing of their introduction in the U.S.