BMW's Influence Could Lead to RWD Mini EVs in the Future | Carscoops

      BMW's Neue Klasse architecture is unsuitable for front-wheel drive (FWD) applications, prompting Mini to make necessary adjustments.

      The upcoming generation of electric vehicles from Mini might switch to a rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration.

      This is due to BMW's new electric vehicle platform, which does not support FWD.

      While there hasn't been an official announcement, Mini has left the door open for speculation.

      Mini may be preparing for a significant transition to rear-wheel drive for its next electric vehicles, aided by shared platforms with BMW. Although nothing has been officially confirmed yet, it is reported that BMW’s new Neue Klasse models, which are set to debut next year, are only compatible with RWD and all-wheel drive (AWD) setups. This likely means Mini will have to adapt to this new system.

      Each Mini model, since the classic original from 1959, has primarily featured front-wheel drive, with the exception of the AWD All4 variants of certain Countryman and Clubman trims. However, this could change as Mini starts using BMW Group’s latest electric architecture.

      New Platform, New Opportunities

      The new platform, debuting with the "Neue Klasse" BMW iX3 later this year, is designed to support a range of electric motor configurations—single, dual, triple, and even quadruple. However, the basic single-motor version can only operate as RWD because the rear-mounted motor is the only configuration that allows for an integrated gearbox.

      BMW Group engineers informed Autocar that there are currently no plans to modify the Neue Klasse platform for front-wheel drive use.

      Mini’s fully electric range is still relatively new, with the Cooper and Countryman launching in 2023, and the Aceman anticipated in 2024. Consequently, the next-generation models may still be a few years off.

      What Lies Ahead for Mini?

      At some point, Mini will need to embrace the new platform, which offers considerable improvements in range, technology, performance, and charging speed, all while benefiting from the BMW Group’s economies of scale.

      An alternative for Mini could involve collaboration with another manufacturer that might provide a FWD architecture, although this remains purely speculative.

      The magazine also interviewed Joachim Post, a Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Purchasing and Supplier Network. When asked if the new platform would signal the end of FWD electric models from Mini, the executive replied, “We will see what the future holds.”

      Post noted that future models will always retain a "Mini character," but raised a point regarding the "optimal" solution for their configuration, with the ultimate aim being "driving pleasure." These comments indicate that Mini is uncertain about the future of its FWD lineup, fueling speculation about a potential debut of the first-ever RWD John Cooper Works model.