Assurance & Insurance…
An all-electric MINI not only assures an adventurous ride, it also offers significant savings especially when free insurance is a possibility too, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin
Car insurance has gone through the sun-roof! And those in the know, reckon there is more chance of Manchester City being relegated this season than prices dropping anytime soon.
So, when a top car manufacturer announces FREE fully comprehensive insurance for a full year, it may just sound too good to be true.
But listen up – that is precisely what is on offer for anyone who buys a new, all-electric MINI, before the end of 2024*.
Driving an all-electric MINI already affords significant savings (more than £1,600 against a fuel-powered motor), but when you factor in this insurance deal, the figure then soars comfortably north of £2,000.
But we’ll park the economic advantages for a moment and take a closer look at the all-electric MINI range.
And what an eye-catching range it is too, whether you choose the Cooper (three-door Hatch) or the Countryman (five-door SUV) or if you prefer, you can wait for the Aceman (five-door Crossover) which is due for launch later this year.
The MINI is widely regarded as one of our greatest inventions and it has earned that distinction through a multitude of reasons.
Instantly recognisable – although somewhat bigger than the early models – the all-electric MINIs are pitch perfect for the electric era.
They will always be funky, stand-out motors – cars for everyone, and every need, and if you enjoy driving, then look no further.
For the purpose of statistics (and those all-important ‘charging’ and ‘range’ questions) let’s examine the Countryman.
Charging just couldn’t be easier, whether at home, work on en route.
A home charger with a flexible fast-charge cable is quick, efficient and compatible with both domestic and industrial power sockets. On the go, there are 39,000 charge points at 14,000 EV charge stations around the UK. The wonderful MINI app will guide you to the nearest one via the navigation system. Once there, you’ll be relieved to learn that to go from 10 per cent to 80 per cent charge takes just half-an-hour.
Fully-charged, the Countryman will reach a range of 287 miles and there is plenty you can do to maximise battery life, for example, avoid quick acceleration and hard braking.
But that doesn’t mean compromising on the fun of driving – an all-electric MINI is all about fun.
Still with that famous go-kart feel, the handling, particularly around bends and corners, is superb, and parking a dream.
The lower centre-of-gravity, due to the battery placement, enhances driving dynamics and the car really grips the road irrespective of the condition of the surface.
Is it powerful? Does 0-62 mph in under six seconds and a top speed of 111 mph answer that?
From any angle, it’s a MINI, but one with a fresh face and an emphasis on sustainability. The chrome has gone, replaced by secondary aluminium, to give the vehicle an even more vibrant exterior.
Ultra-modern and super simplistic, embodying maximum driving pleasure and minimum footprint, it is crammed with innovative digital technology.
At the heart of the digital centre is a state-of-the-art 240mm circular OLED screen. It serves as an instrument cluster and your onboard hub for infotainment and assistance. The stunning circular geometry is also a world first.
This presents just about everything you could possibly need in terms of intuitive operation and personalisation options.
The optional MINI Connected Package allows access to an ever-growing range of practical features and entertaining apps, including gaming, music and video streaming.
And when it comes to all those need-to-know situations, like weather conditions, traffic updates or maybe just a chit-chat, then simply use your voice to bring on board the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant. Android and Apple compatible, it is available via a push-to-talk button on the steering wheel, or by saying the greeting: “Hey MINI”.
Fancy a laugh? It’ll even tell you a joke!
Acoustics are top drawer with the Harman Kardon (optional) surround sound system with 10 speakers and you can stream into Spotify or Amazon Music with minimum fuss.
But there are also times (especially as you get a touch older) when you simply want to turn off from everything and seek a little peace. Well, the all-electric MINIs are nothing if not quiet. Enjoy the silence.
As for peace of mind, you’ll find a raft of assistance systems including Parking Assistant, Rear View Camera, Blind Spot Detection and Dynamic Cruise Control. The list is endless and help is readily on hand.
The all-electric MINIs are friendly, fun and fearless companions for the eco-conscious driver who likes to enjoy cost savings along the way.
With MINI you can always be assured – now you can be insured too.
Shot on location at Samlesbury Hall
*The free insurance offer is available to drivers aged over 25 and under 80 and applies to new car orders placed up to 2nd January 2025. T&Cs, exclusions and further eligibility apply. See website for details.
Bowker Blackburn MINI
Trident Way
Blackburn BB1 3NU
01254 274333
bowkerblackburnmini.co.uk
