The MINI Concept Aceman marks the beginning of a new era for the famous British brand, as it introduces a new design language. A little electric crossover below the next generation Countryman and its all-electric version provides a foretaste. The company’s first all-electric model, and the later production model will go down in history. You may question whether the Aceman MINI stays true to its moniker as automobiles become more complex. The concept car is modest by today’s standards, measuring only 4.05 metres in length, 1.99 metres in width, and 1.59 metres in height. This one is noticeably shorter, but it’s also wider and taller.

MINI has published only the vehicle’s measurements, as the BMW-owned brand focuses on Aceman’s design. With its LED matrix lights on the front and back, the electric crossover delivers on its promise of following the “Charismatic Simplicity” design language by foregoing leather and chrome accents. The Union Jack theme has an illuminated radiator grille to the rear lights. Even the roof rack’s transverse and diagonal struts resemble the renowned flag’s construction.

Large 20-inch wheels fill out the big arches with their plastic coating in typical concept flair. While the Aceman may be modest in stature, it does not skimp on functionality. This vehicle features useable rear doors because of its large wheelbase, shortened by the innovative electric vehicle platform. As far as we’ve seen, this is one of the most eye-catching MINIs we’ve ever seen. The interior is just as vibrant and does away with most traditional controls. The giant OLED display takes centre stage and is accompanied by a toggle switch bar below that lets you adjust the volume of the audio system, parking brake and gear lever, and choose from the three available Experience Modes to personalise the large screen. The infotainment relies on an Android Open Source Project (AOSP) software stack and MINI has also built a wireless charging pad for your smartphone into the centre console.

From August 23-28, the Aceman will be at Gamescon in Cologne, Germany, for display. After that, we’ll have a finished product. As part of BMW Group’s joint venture with Great Wall Motor, China will manufacture the Spotlight Automotive Project. After investing €650 million, the joint venture will create 3,000 employment. It will comprise a new plant in Zhangjiagang with an annual capacity of up to 160,000 automobiles. The MINI Aceman has yet to appear in the United States officially.