BMW has reportedly abandoned plans to develop a convertible variant of its Mini Cooper E, despite strong demand for its predecessor, the Mini Cooper SE Convertible, industry sources revealed.
The decision comes as the automaker grapples with shifting EV market dynamics and pressure to enhance profitability on entry-level electric models.
The previous generation’s Mini Cooper SE Convertible, launched as a limited-edition model in 2023 with just 999 units, was met with overwhelming interest, following the success of an unsellable show car showcased in 2022.
The high demand spurred hopes for a convertible version of the latest electric Mini, unveiled in September 2023. However, these aspirations have now been dashed, according to a report from BMW Blog.
Sources indicate the convertible version, codenamed J03, was intended for production starting in 2027 alongside the electric Mini three-door (J01) at BMW’s Oxford facility and in China. However, BMW has reportedly decided to forego the project, citing “changing market dynamics for EVs and the increasing pressure to maximize profits on entry-level electric models like the Cooper.”
