Photo: AC Schnitzer
MINI’s first series-production electric endeavor, the Cooper SE, is very fresh indeed. It builds upon proven BMW Group electric technology and gives zero-emissions performance the usual fun spin one expects from the British manufacturer. Go-kart handling on battery electrons should be enough for most people... unless the customer digs aftermarket enhancements.
No worries, because renowned BMW and MINI tuning specialist AC Schnitzer has already concocted a “special parts” program for the Cooper SE. Just don’t expect any performance enhancements because the aftermarket expert doesn’t seem ready to play with the MINI electrons just yet.
So, the 181-hp electric motor, 32.6 kWh battery pack, and single speed transmission remain untouched. Everything else is up for debate, though. First up are the aerodynamic solutions, which include an easy-peasy fitting solution for the matte black front splitter (AC Schnitzer promises increased front downforce), as well as a “rear skirt protection film,” various badges, and other subtle details.
The tuning specialist knows very well that electric vehicles have a weight problem stemming from the bulky battery packs, so it decided to address the issue by completely rethinking the suspension spring kit. It will drop the height of the MINI Cooper SE by around 25-35 mm (0.98 to 1.37 in) up front and some 20 to 30 mm (0.78/1.18 in) at the back, respectively.
Already commended for its sporty driving characteristics, the AC Schnitzer-enhanced Cooper SE will probably become a blast during cornering sessions, as well as safer when performing evasive maneuvers. Naturally, there’s also a new alloy wheel set to go with the styling changes, with the proposition being the 19-inch AC1 model shod with 215/35 R19 tires.
The interior, on the other hand, could use a beefier parts catalog as the Aachen-based aftermarket specialist has so far prepared just a couple of new items. One of them isn’t even something that would get noticed a lot, as we’re dealing with an AC Schnitzer-branded Black Line aluminum cover for the infotainment system controller, along with a neat set of sporty aluminum pedals.
There’s just one minor detail missing from the program – the price list for the MINI Cooper SE (F56) accessories range.
So, the 181-hp electric motor, 32.6 kWh battery pack, and single speed transmission remain untouched. Everything else is up for debate, though. First up are the aerodynamic solutions, which include an easy-peasy fitting solution for the matte black front splitter (AC Schnitzer promises increased front downforce), as well as a “rear skirt protection film,” various badges, and other subtle details.
The tuning specialist knows very well that electric vehicles have a weight problem stemming from the bulky battery packs, so it decided to address the issue by completely rethinking the suspension spring kit. It will drop the height of the MINI Cooper SE by around 25-35 mm (0.98 to 1.37 in) up front and some 20 to 30 mm (0.78/1.18 in) at the back, respectively.
Already commended for its sporty driving characteristics, the AC Schnitzer-enhanced Cooper SE will probably become a blast during cornering sessions, as well as safer when performing evasive maneuvers. Naturally, there’s also a new alloy wheel set to go with the styling changes, with the proposition being the 19-inch AC1 model shod with 215/35 R19 tires.
The interior, on the other hand, could use a beefier parts catalog as the Aachen-based aftermarket specialist has so far prepared just a couple of new items. One of them isn’t even something that would get noticed a lot, as we’re dealing with an AC Schnitzer-branded Black Line aluminum cover for the infotainment system controller, along with a neat set of sporty aluminum pedals.
There’s just one minor detail missing from the program – the price list for the MINI Cooper SE (F56) accessories range.
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