Nearly every aspect of the new Cooper has already been revealed by Mini, but the official full unveiling won’t happen until later this year. Now, Mini has released further information and images of the hatchback’s interior, which will have new tricks for the technology’s audio and visual components.
The 9.44-inch-diameter circular OLED display that sits in the centre of the dashboard appears to be Mini’s particular source of pride. It claims that this is the first display of this size on the market to use OLED technology, and more significantly, that it will debut on the next Mini models running the Mini Operating System 9. This is the most recent iteration of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP)-based infotainment system used by the BMW Group.
The new circular display houses the cloud-based navigation system for Mini, which offers route planning with optimal charging for the new Mini Cooper’s electric models. The navigation system now has additional capabilities including three-dimensional maps and an AI view. The Mini Experience Modes, Core, Green, and Go-Kart, are also accessible from the screen. Each of these modes has a unique interface design and extra light and sound effects.
Spike, the company’s new intelligent voice assistant, is activated by saying “Hey Mini”. It offers quick and simple voice control over features including radio, telephony, navigation, and temperature. Optional 5G connectivity enables over-the-air upgrades, which should occur multiple times per year, and may swiftly update the new interface.
The fast Internet access enables access to the Mini Connected Store, where a variety of programs may be downloaded, including Spotify, AirConsole games, and apps for watching videos.
“Unmistakable sound” is what the carmaker guarantees for the electric models. This features 30 new sound signals with information and warning functions, new driving noises in the cabin, a distinct sound from the outside, and several jingles for the various Experience Modes.
The base Cooper E model of the new electric Mini will have a front-mounted 181-horsepower electric motor and a 40.7-kilowatt-hour battery for an estimated 299km range on the WLTP test cycle in Europe. Above it, the Cooper SE sports a bigger 54.2 kWh battery pack and a little more potent 215hp electric motor.
