"We won’t have a manual unfortunately," Mini brand boss Stefanie Wurst said about the future combustion-powered models. The automaker introduced the electric variants of the new Cooper and Countryman at the IAA Mobility show in Munich.
Details about Mini's future combustion-engine models are currently under wraps, but reports indicate that all will incorporate mild-hybrid technology for better emissions control.
"I think meeting Charlie [Cooper, grandson of John Cooper] made me confident about continuing with motorsport," said Wurst. "So, we plan to go with him into electric motorsport as well."
"For me it’s just really difficult to judge right now because not all new forms of electric motorsport have been successful," she said. "Which is a good platform for the future? We’ll see what evolves and plan to join something."
As a final farewell to its manual models, Mini launched the John Cooper Works Bulldog Racing Edition in August 2023. This special edition features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 231 hp / 170 kW and 320 Nm (235 pound-feet) of torque. It is equipped with a Remus exhaust, a six-speed manual transmission, and rides on an adjustable KW V3 suspension with 17-inch OZ HyperGT wheels fitted with Pirelli P Zero tires. To reduce weight, the rear seats have been removed.
Source: Top Gear
