2025 Mini Aceman Spy Shots: New Electric Crossover Spotted
Mini is testing a prototype for a new addition to its lineup.
The prototype is for an electric subcompact crossover that would sit below the Countryman. The vehicle was teased by the Aceman Concept in July, and the name may carry over into production. A revival of the Paceman name is also rumored.
The Aceman, or whatever it will eventually be called, is expected to appear in 2024 as a 2025 model. To make room for the Aceman, the Countryman design will be redesigned next year and will be slightly larger. The Aceman Concept is 159.4 inches long, about 10 inches shorter than the current Countryman.
The Aceman will be the first vehicle developed and built by Spotlight Automotive, a Chinese joint venture between Mini and Great Wall Motor. Spotlight was established in 2019 to develop and manufacture electric vehicles for Mini and Great Wall and sell them in both China and export markets.
Specs have not been disclosed, but the range is expected to exceed the 114 miles of the Cooper SE, currently Mini's only EV.
Spy shots suggest a design similar to the current Countryman, but with new details in line with Mini's latest design language. Called Charismatic Simplicity, this language was previewed in the Aceman Concept, and Mini vehicles will lose their chrome accents. Future Minis will also lose leather trim, and the distinctive round center stack will become a digital screen. Thankfully, the vehicle will continue to offer physical controls for key features, including the popular toggle switches.
As noted above, the redesigned Countryman will be the first to appear. This will be twinned with the redesigned BMW X1 in 2023 and, unlike the Aceman, will offer a choice of gas or electric powertrains. Eventually, Mini will sell only EVs. Mini plans to launch its last gasoline-powered car in 2025.
Interestingly, Mini has also hinted at a crossover that would sit above the Countryman. That would mean a larger Mini than we are accustomed to, but the brand has always said it will have the smallest footprint in its respective segment.
