Mini EV Salary Sacrifice
MINI first launched its electric car in 2020, called the MINI Cooper SE, which was a third-generation MINI Hatch. The drivetrain uses technology developed for the earlier BMW i3. John Cooper built the first MINI Cooper in 1961 and three years later, it was globally renowned.
All images are sourced from the official MINI website
Drivers aged 18 to 30 belong to an environmentally conscious generation that prioritises sustainability more than previous generations in decision-making. 71% of those surveyed are aware of the government's target to stop the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, and 46% said they would be happy to buy an EV if there were no barriers to purchase. This is where The Electric Car Scheme comes in. The Electric Car Scheme allows UK companies to help their employees transition to net zero at no cost to the employer. By implementing this green car scheme, companies can offer a cost-neutral benefit that makes switching to an electric car more affordable for employees.
EV salary sacrifice works like the cycle-to-work scheme, where employees give up part of their salary in exchange for an electric car. This government car scheme was designed to make the switch from petrol and diesel cars to electric easier and more affordable for the everyday person. This allows employees who take up the scheme to save on income tax and national insurance contributions, reducing the total cost of the car by 30-60%.
Join us in this blog as we explore the exciting Electric MINI models available to lease through electric car salary sacrifice schemes, like The Electric Car Scheme.
All-electric MINI Cooper
These images have been sourced from: the official MINI website
The electric MINI Cooper retains the iconic look of the traditional three-door MINI Hatchback, appealing to fans of the classic design as well as those who prefer an EV that doesn’t look too futuristic. Inside, you'll find the familiar infotainment system and the signature circular centre console.
MINI Cooper Specifications and Trim Levels
There are three different trim levels available: Classic, Exclusive, and Sport. Two battery levels are offered: 41kWh and 54kWh. The 41kWh battery can achieve 0 to 62 mph acceleration in 7.3 seconds and has a range of 185 to 189 miles on a single charge. The monthly lease cost varies between £323 and £352 if you decide to lease the MINI Cooper through The Electric Car Scheme.
On the other hand, the 54kWh battery can achieve 0 to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds and offers a range of 249 miles on a single charge. Due to these improved figures, the lease cost is slightly higher, ranging between £371 and £380 per month based on a flat payment method, 10,000 miles per annum, and a three-year lease term. The price of your lease also heavily depends on your salary, as your savings come from income tax and national insurance contributions.
| Specifications | Power Output | Battery Size | 0-62mph | Range | Lease cost per month |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E Classic | 135kW | 41kWh | 7.3 seconds | 189 miles | £323 per month |
| E Exclusive | 135kW | 41kWh | 7.3 seconds | 186 miles | £334 per month |
| E Sport | 135kW | 41kWh | 7.3 seconds | 185 miles | £352 per month |
| SE Classic | 160kW | 54kWh | 6.7 seconds | 249 miles | £371 per month |
| SE Exclusive | 160kW | 54kWh | 6.7 seconds | 245 miles | £381 per month |
| SE Sport | 160kW | 54kWh | 6.7 seconds | 244 miles | £400 per month |
The MINI Cooper also has three different trim levels: 1, 2 and 3. Here’s the difference between the three levels:
Level 1: The entry-level MINI Electric. There are three wheel choices, two paint colours and several other options as standard, such as a fully digital cockpit, automatic air conditioning, LED headlights, a Navigation pack and a sports leather steering wheel.
Level 2: All of the standard features from Level 1 with the addition of either a Black Pearl Cloth or leatherette upholstery, folding and auto-dimming mirrors, interior lights pack, Rear Park Distance Control, rearview camera, front seat heating, anthracite headlining and four-wheel choices and five paint colours.
Level 3: All the standard features from Levels 1 and 2 with the addition of sports seats, illuminated interior surfaces, adaptive LED headlights with matrix function, Front Park Distance Control, Harman Kardon Hi-Fi system, Head Up Display, Navigation Plus pack, panoramic glass sunroof, five wheel options and six paint colours.
What’s the MINI Cooper like to drive?
The above images have been sourced from the official MINI website.
The MINI Electric provides a go-kart-like experience behind the wheel, zipping through town and deftly navigating even the smallest gaps and tightest parking spaces. Its nimble handling and responsiveness contribute to a firm ride over bumps. The driving position is ideal, offering excellent visibility to the front and sides. The standard rear parking sensors are helpful when reversing into parking spots due to the small rear window. The brake regeneration system has two settings; the more aggressive mode slows the car enough in urban driving that the brake pedal is rarely needed.
On the motorway, the MINI Electric maintains impressive refinement, responding instantly to inputs and offering ample speed for overtaking. The front seats are comfortable for extended journeys, while the rear seats are best for younger passengers. Dispelling the myth that electric cars lack character, the MINI Electric amplifies the classic MINI driving experience with its immediate electric motor response. It handles corners with minimal lean and accelerates out of tight bends with surprising speed, feeling even quicker than its specifications suggest.
Space inside the all-electric MINI Cooper
This image has been source from the official MINI Cooper website
The MINI Cooper’s cabin combines a cosy atmosphere with lots of space in the front. The seats and steering wheel offer extensive adjustments, catering comfortably even to the tallest of individuals, and the low seating position enhances the car's sporty character. Conveniently located at the base of the dashboard are two cupholders, alongside a designated space for your mobile phone, with 12-Volt and USB plug points. However, the door pockets are narrow and shallow, so larger items will need to be stowed under the central armrest, which is not particularly spacious either. The glove box is similarly compact, so it would be a good idea to travel light.
Getting into the back seats can be difficult because of the lack of back doors. The front seats tilt and slide easily, making it slightly easier, but the absence of rear windows may make passengers in the back feel claustrophobic, especially on longer journeys. There are two ISOFIX mountings in the back, although it’s not the easiest car to do this in or to strap a child into. The back seats will comfortably accommodate two children, both with their own cupholder.
Boot space in the all-electric MINI Cooper is modest, with 211 litres available. This falls short of the Peugeot e-208’s 311 litre boot or the Renault Zoe which offers 338 litres, but it is good for shopping trips and a couple of medium-sized bags. Folding down the rear seats does expand the cargo capacity to 731 litres, which is perfect if you need to transport large boxes.
Infotainment and interior
The focal point of the interior is the distinctive circular central infotainment system, a signature feature also found in the regular models. A recent update has made the larger 8.8-inch touchscreen standard, incorporating BMW’s intuitive iDrive system that is user-friendly whether operated via touchscreen or through the physical buttons and rotary controller.
Standard features include sat nav, DAB radio, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Opting for the Level 3 trim adds advanced navigation, a head-up display, and wireless phone charging, as mentioned earlier. Higher trims offer additional luxuries such as a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, and advanced park assist. The digital driver dials add a modern touch, now standard across regular Mini models as well.
Apart from its distinctive toggles and circular infotainment system, the Mini distinguishes itself from other small hatchbacks with its exceptional build quality and premium materials throughout the cabin. Standard cloth leatherette upholstery can be upgraded to leather in higher trims, complemented by soft-touch fabrics on key touchpoints like the steering wheel and armrests. Overall, the cabin exudes a higher level of craftsmanship compared to its competitors, making the mid-range Level 3 trim an optimal choice for balancing cost and features.
Lease the all-electric MINI Cooper from The Electric Car Scheme
EV salary sacrifice allows employees to save 30-60% on any electric car. For instance, you can lease an electric MINI Cooper from The Electric Car Scheme for £323 per month. You choose the lease term, payment structure (accelerated or flat), and annual mileage. Without salary sacrifice savings, the monthly payment would be £501. With salary sacrifice, you save £200 per month on income tax and £10 on national insurance. You will need to pay a small amount of Benefit-in-Kind (company car tax), which would be £33 per month. This brings your total monthly payment to £323, resulting in significant savings.
This table is based on a 40% taxpayer, a three-year lease term, and 10,000 miles per annum. You can build your own quote on our website!
Electric MINI Countryman
These images have been sourced from the official MINI Countryman.
The 2024 electric MINI Countryman represents a major step in MINI’s transition to full electrification by 2030. It comes in two fully electric variants: the Countryman E and the more powerful all-wheel Countryman SE All4.
Specifications and Trim Levels available
The base-level model E features a single motor capable of achieving 0-62 mph in 8.6 seconds and offers a range of 287 miles on a single charge. In contrast, the SE utilizes two electric motors, achieving 0-62 mph in 5.6 seconds with a range between 267 and 259 miles per charge. The MINI Countryman is known for its practicality and reliability, offering ample cabin space for storage. Inside, it features a prominent circular screen at the centre of the console.
| Specification | Power Output | Battery Size | 0-62mph | Range | Lease cost per month |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E Classic | 150kW | 66kWh | 8.6 seconds | 287 miles | £472 |
| E Exclusive | 150kW | 66kWh | 8.6 seconds | 282 miles | £484 |
| E Sport | 150kW | 66kWh | 8.6 seconds | 277 miles | £500 |
| SE Classic ALL4 | 230kW | 66kWh | 5.6 seconds | 267 miles | £515 |
| SE Exclusive | 230kW | 66kWh | 5.6 seconds | 263 miles | £527 |
| SE Sport ALL4 | 230kW | 66kWh | 5.6 seconds | 259 miles | £543 |
As shown in the table above, lease prices vary based on the Countryman model you select. For example, opting for the E Classic could cost you £472 per month with a three-year lease, flat payment profile, 10,000 miles per annum, and if you're a 40% taxpayer. Choosing the SE Sport ALL4 could result in a monthly payment of £543.
Similar to the original Cooper, the MINI Countryman offers three levels to choose from. You can compare the differences between these levels above, with the highest level encompassing everything offered in the lower two levels.
Driving the MINI Countryman
The Countryman’s larger size presents challenges in urban driving compared to smaller Mini hatchbacks, yet it aligns well with other compact SUVs. Its square dimensions and low windowline provide surprisingly good visibility for a 2024 SUV. Like all electric vehicles, the electric Countryman accelerates smoothly and swiftly, seamlessly reaching speeds without gear changes. It swiftly reaches 30 mph, making it agile in traffic. The Countryman handles bumps well. Models with larger alloy wheels, like the Sport variant with 19 inches, may feel harsher over bumps compared to the base Classic model’s 17-inch wheels. Equipped with sensors and cameras, parking the Countryman is straightforward, with optional Mini parking assistants available for challenging manoeuvres like reversing into tight spots.
On the motorway, the powerful Countryman SE offers ample cruising power, facilitating confident overtaking and merging. The lower-powered Countryman E accelerates from 0-62 mph in 8.6 seconds, ensuring adequate performance on fast roads. Expectedly quiet due to its electric drivetrain, the Countryman experiences notable wind and road noise. Wind noise originates from its upright windscreen and door mirrors, while road noise is pronounced on larger wheels, contrasting with quieter models like the Tesla Model Y or Volvo XC40 Recharge. The Driving Assistant Plus, available with the Level 2 equipment pack, includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane-keeping aids, although it’s notable that basic cruise control is standard.
Despite being a larger SUV with a heavy battery pack, the Countryman handles country lanes reasonably well, benefitting from quick, accurate steering and a sporty driving mode named ‘Go-Kart’.
What’s the space like inside the MINI Countryman?
These images have been sourced from the official MINI Countryman.
In the Mini Countryman's front cabin, you'll find sporty, supportive seats with ample adjustment to accommodate drivers of all sizes. The driving position, while somewhat upright, is comfortable, especially if you appreciate the elevated view typical of SUVs. Even taller drivers can find a comfortable position due to the extensive seat adjustment options.
There are plenty of storage options in the MINI Countryman. The door bins easily fit large water bottles, the glovebox is generously sized, and the centre console offers dedicated storage for your phone along with various compartments for everyday items like wallets and keys. Thoughtfully placed cupholders, a slim storage space under the central armrest, and a fabric-covered bin provide discreet storage options.
In the back, there's sufficient room for two adults to sit comfortably. Unlike the petrol-powered version, the rear seats in the electric Countryman are fixed in place but offer ample legroom for a six-foot-tall adult behind a similarly sized driver. Rear passengers benefit from USB-C charging ports, air vents, and cupholders in the flip-down central armrest.
The Countryman is better suited as a four-seater because the centre seat is narrow and the vehicle lacks the width for three adults to sit comfortably side by side. The rear doors, though square in shape, could open wider for easier access. Installing child seats, however, is straightforward, with ISOFIX points hidden behind flip-up covers, which are more user-friendly than the typical pop-out plastic shields.
In terms of cargo space, the Countryman offers 460 litres in the boot, slightly less than the BMW iX1's 490 litres and notably less than the Peugeot E-3008's 520 litres. However, it does provide sufficient room for family needs, featuring a practical square shape with a flat floor. The rear seats do also fold down in a versatile 40:20:40 split configuration, allowing for flexibility to accommodate long items while retaining seating for passengers. A small underfloor storage area is convenient for storing charging cables, although accessing them may require rearranging items in the boot. The one downside to the Countryman is that it does not feature a front trunk!
Infotainment and interior details
These images have been sourced from the official MINI Countryman.
The first thing you notice when getting into any MINI is the central display. The screen controls all functions within the car and the top part is used instead of a driver’s display. You can opt for a head-up display if you prefer not to divert your gaze to the centre console for speed information. As with most electric cars, the climate controls are situated on the screen, which can be a tad distracting if you’re driving and trying to operate them at the same time.
The central section manages all other functionalities, presenting a busy interface that may require some time to familiarise yourself with. It showcases Mini's apps, with a bright screen and minimal bezel that exudes a futuristic feel. However, when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, the interface operates in a less seamless windowed mode that contrasts with the integrated design. While Mini retains physical switchgear for certain functions - a decision appreciated in contrast to Tesla's approach of touchscreen-only controls - the Countryman's interior remains geared towards technologically savvy users rather than technophobes.
The rest of the interior maintains a distinctly cool ambience. The dashboard and most door panels feature an intriguing knitted-texture fabric, complemented by soft and supple artificial leather where used. This departure from the typical monochrome plastic found in many small SUVs provides a refreshing change, although the fabric surfaces may pose challenges in cleaning, especially if subjected to children's messy hands.
Salary sacrifice a MINI Countryman and save thousands on your EV!
At The Electric Car Scheme, our goal is to make leasing an EV cheaper and easier than ever before. Below, you can see the cost breakdown for a new MINI Countryman if you decide to make use of the government’s tax incentives. Additionally, we have recently expanded our offerings to include used electric cars. Our used electric cars are available on a limited basis - learn more about them here.
As you can see above, you can save over £300 every month on the cost of a MINI Countryman. You would save £293 on income tax and £15 every month on National Insurance contributions.
Electric MINI Aceman
These images were sourced from the official MINI website.
The Electric MINI Aceman was the “first-ever all-electric crossover” for MINI. The Aceman fits into the gap created by the Countryman getting bigger. It is only 20mm longer and the same width as a Renault Clio, so it is very small for an SUV. There are two variants of the Aceman which follow the same naming convention as the other MINI’s in this blog: the E and SE. The Aceman E has a 45.5kWh battery which can achieve around 192 miles on a single charge. Whereas, the SE is more powerful with a 54.2kWh battery pack, giving it a maximum range of 253 miles.
Specifications and Trims available for the MINI Aceman
The table below shows the different specifications available as well as the power output, battery size, 0-62mph acceleration time, range and cost per month if you were to lease the Aceman through The Electric Car Scheme.
| Specification | Power Output | Battery size | 0-62mph | Range | Lease cost per month |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E Classic | 135kW | 43kWh | 7.9 seconds | 192 miles | £391 |
| E Exclusive | 135kW | 43kWh | 7.9 seconds | 191 miles | £418 |
| E Sport | 135kW | 43kWh | 7.9 seconds | 192 miles | £435 |
| SE Classic | 160kW | 54kWh | 7.1 seconds | 251 mies | £438 |
| SE Exclusive | 160kW | 54kWh | 7.1 seconds | 249 miles | £469 |
| SE Sport | 160kW | 54kWh | 7.1 seconds | 245 miles | £485 |
What is the difference between the Classic, Exclusive and Sport?
According to MINI, the differences between the three specifications are as follows: the MINI Classic models have a list of standard specifications whilst the MINI Sport models are distinctively sportier and come with John Cooper Works interior and exterior equipment. The MINI Exclusive models have a more refined style and include some exclusive MINI Yours interior and exterior features.
What’s the all-electric MINI Aceman like to drive?
Stefanie Wurst, head of the MINI brand since 2022, states that the Aceman ‘is perfect for navigating crowded city streets, while maintaining the versatility and functionality of a crossover and the go-kart feeling you can expect from a Mini. [She is] certain that the sleek design, the performance, and the versatility as a five-seater crossover, will make the Aceman a resounding success.’
What is the Aceman like inside?
These images were sourced from the official MINI website.
Stepping inside, the Mini maintains its hallmark features: the prominent 9.4-inch circular OLED display, the stylish toggle bar, and the Vescin steering wheel. Depending on your chosen trim level, you can customise the interior with various colours, materials, and badges.
Regardless of your selection, each option exudes impressive style. The overall aesthetic is enhanced by ambient roof frame lighting, speakers angled towards the occupants, and a gently curved dashboard that seamlessly extends onto the door panels. For added flair, you can opt for a panoramic roof as an additional feature.
The MINI Aceman also offers up to 300 litres of boot space, which expands to (just) over 1,000 litres with the rear seats folded down.
Infotainment in the MINI Aceman
The Aceman doesn't hugely differ to the other electric MINI models available. The main infotainment screen is equipped with Mini's latest ninth-generation operating system. It provides essential information such as vehicle speed and battery charge status. For added convenience and much like the other MINI models, you can opt for a head-up display, ensuring your eyes stay firmly fixed on the road.
There is plenty of technology packed into the Aceman, including a virtual assistant called Spike. Spike can help access different navigation, communication and entertainment systems. You also get a 12-camera parking assistance which identifies empty spaces and will even automatically start a manoeuvre for you, which is very cool!
Lease a MINI Aceman through a Green Car Scheme
If you choose to lease a MINI Aceman through The Electric Car Scheme, you will have access to the top leasing companies to ensure the best prices are available. The best prices are required to get good employee take-up.
You can browse our quote tool to see all of the electric cars we have available at The Electric Car Scheme and how much you could save when you input your salary! If you choose the Aceman, you would save £230 in income tax savings and £12 in national insurance savings. You would have to pay £35 in Benefit in Kind tax, which is essentially a company car tax. You would be paying £369 to lease an Aceman from The Electric Car Scheme which is a great use of government tax incentives!
Employee happiness is at the heart of a healthy, thriving company. With The Electric Car Scheme or through a green car scheme, you can show your commitment to sustainability. Your employees will appreciate the opportunity to make a positive impact.
Electric car salary sacrifice schemes can help employees save between 30-60% on any EV of their choice. You simply agree to have a portion of your pre-tax salary deducted each month to cover the car cost. Choose the car you want, add on any extras, and drive away saving thousands of pounds.
Watch how Dreams implemented The Electric Car Scheme and their overall experience with the EV salary sacrifice scheme in the video below.
Last updated: 10.07.24
Our pricing is based on data collected from The Electric Car Scheme quote tool. All final pricing is inclusive of VAT. All prices above are based on the following lease terms; 10,000 miles pa, 36 months, and are inclusive of Maintenance and Breakdown Cover. The Electric Car Scheme’s terms and conditions apply. All deals are subject to credit approval and availability. All deals are subject to excess mileage and damage charges. Prices are calculated based on the following tax saving assumptions; England & Wales, 40% tax rate. The above prices were calculated using a flat payment profile. The Electric Car Scheme Limited provides services for the administration of your salary sacrifice employee benefits. The Electric Car Scheme Holdings Limited is a member of the BVRLA (10608), is authorised and regulated by the FCA under FRN 968270, is an Appointed Representative of Marshall Management Services Ltd under FRN 667174, and is a credit broker and not a lender or insurance provider.
