Mini Cooper SE: the electric hardtop is ready to drive!

• 2020 Mini Cooper SE is a new electrified two-door hardtop.
• DC charging provides up to 80 per cent autonomy in about 35 minutes.
• This little Mini weighs in at just over 180 horsepower.

Mini is finally bringing an electrified version of its favourite little hatchback to America. While it's not a direct competitor to the more upscale offerings from Tesla and Porsche, it should compete pretty well with cars like the Nissan Leaf, Chevy Bolt, and Fiat 500e. The first thing you'll notice about the 2020 Mini Cooper SE is that it looks like a Mini. There's no space-age styling or anything like that. Just that classic two box, hatchback style that looks like a toaster on wheels.

What is the Mini Cooper SE?

The Mini Cooper SE is based on the 2014 Mini Hardtop 2 Door. In terms of dimensions, its height has only increased by 18 millimetres (0.7 inches, ha!). This should make room for the floor-mounted battery packs and the new HVAC pump. The heat pump is designed to increase range in cold weather, something everyone in the Midwest will be thankful for.

• Related: Mini enthusiasts will appreciate this insightful book.

Despite all things eco-friendly and battery-powered, Mini is unequivocal in saying that the Cooper SE is still very much a Mini. With its low centre of gravity and torquey electric drive, the SE retains the brand's interesting personality. Case in point: the electric motor powering the front wheels delivers 181 horsepower and 199 lb-ft. of torque. 60 mph is accelerated in 6.9 seconds, and the top speed is 93 miles per hour. A nifty dual-mode regenerative braking system helps extend battery life.

2020 Mini Cooper SE. Photo: BMW Group.

How long will it take to charge?

Yes, yes, you may say, but what about charging? What about all the things that make many people nervous? For starters, the Mini Cooper SE comes as standard with AC charging up to 7.4kW. This means you can get a 100 per cent charge at home in around four hours. If you choose the DC Charging option, it will run at 50kW and allow you to get an 80 per cent charge in just 35 minutes using the standard SAE Combo fast charger.

You will notice a new «filler cap» with LED status indicator when your Mini Cooper SE is in charging mode. There's also a programmable locking feature as part of the charging circuitry that prevents the cord from disconnecting. And get this: when your Mini is full, it can automatically unlock to allow others in need of a charger when using public kiosks.

The Mini Cooper SE comes with up to 7.4 kW AC charging, allowing it to be fully charged at home in around four hours. Photo: BMW Group.

What are the features of the Mini Cooper SE?

The Mini Cooper SE comes standard with a basic level of interior trim that is not standard or basic. There's plenty of premium equipment available, as well as two additional interior trim levels if you want extra items and features. Inside, you'll see a dynamic digital instrument cluster that features a digital speedometer and charge and power level indicators. Drivers can scroll through data such as remaining range and charge/power levels.

The standard equipment package already includes a 6.5-inch navigation display; Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity; heated front seats, washer nozzles and mirrors; keyless entry; automatic climate control; LED headlights and fog lights; and a cool storage package. Safety features include forward collision warning, acoustic pedestrian warning, and a rearview camera.

Mini Cooper SE interior layout. Photo: BMW Group.

How much does a Mini Cooper SE cost?

The new Mini Cooper SE will go on sale in early March 2020 at dealers in the US, priced at $30,750 (with destination). Federal tax credits and similar government incentives are likely to bring that figure down significantly. Mini claims that qualified consumers can get a Cooper SE for as little as $17,900. That would be $17,900, along with additional incentives such as access to HOV lanes in some states.