Mini's ace card in drive to go all-electric

The conventional format of the Aceman is crucial in giving the electric vehicle the best chance for commercial success

- Lee Nian Tjoe

COPENHAGEN - Mini wants to have an all-electric portfolio by the early 2030s and the Aceman has a big part to play in that transition.

The test drive of this new electric vehicle (EV) takes place in Denmark, where more than half the electricity supply comes from renewable sources.

By sheer luck or misfortune, the location offers rather unfriendly weather - cold and wet.

It certainly makes the Aceman's warm and comfy cabin something of a haven.

Unlike the recently launched Cooper and Countryman models, which are available in EV and internal combustion-engine forms, the Aceman is the first EV-only Mini.

The Aceman is shorter than the Countryman by 121mm.

It is also positioned below the sport utility vehicle in the Mini model line-up.

Think of it as a larger, five-door version of the Mini Cooper hatchback with a bit more ground clearance to qualify it as a crossover.

But overall, if you have been in the other two Mini models, the Aceman will feel immediately familiar.

There is no particular quirk or feature that stands out.

The circular touchscreen infotainment system is still impressive to look at and use.