The John Cooper Works (JCW) versions of the latest J01 MINI Cooper Electric and J05 Aceman have been leaked ahead of their debut thanks to China’s ministry of industry and information technology (MIIT), which is the local regulator that approves every car before it goes on sale.
Both the J01 and J05 were developed and are currently produced in China by Spotlight Automotive, a joint venture between BMW Group and Great Wall Motor (GMW), so it isn’t surprising that preliminary details are being revealed early. It should be noted the upcoming MINI JCW E was previewed in prototype form at the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed.
As previously speculated, the JCW models will be front-wheel drive and get a power bump to 259 PS (255 hp) from 218 PS (215 hp). The electric motor (identified as HC0002N0) will likely be paired with the models’ larger 54.2-kWh battery (or 51.5 kWh in China), although range might take a hit due to the extra performance.
Visually, the production JCW models will come with a sporty exterior that mimics a Cooper SE with the JCW Trim package, including a prominent roof-mounted spoiler. Model-specific wheels, dedicated badges and red accents are cues to tell apart the true JCW models from those with the optional Trim package.
Other changes likely include a lower ride height and an interior that reflects the higher levels of performance offered. We’ll know more when MINI officially reveals its electric JCW cars, which is expected to happen sometime in the fall of this year.
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front wheel drive? lame