The next generation of the Mini Cooper Electric is considering a switch to rear-wheel drive. The reason is BMW's new Gen6 architecture, which the concern is developing for future electric vehicles. It is initially designed for a rear-wheel drive layout and does not include front electric motors. The current electric Mini uses a front electric motor and front-wheel drive, with the Cooper E and Cooper SE versions producing 184 and 218 hp, respectively.

For the new generation, the transition to a rear axle may not just be a technical necessity. BMW associates Gen6 with improved dynamics and driving pleasure, and for Mini, this is especially important: handling has always been one of the brand's main features.

At the same time, the car's appearance is not expected to change radically. Mini's chief designer, Holger Hampf, stated that future models will retain the recognizable proportions and key features of the Cooper.

There is an important caveat: Mini has not yet confirmed the transition to rear-wheel drive. These are reports and technical plans from BMW, so the final configuration of the future Cooper Electric may still change.

If the project gets the green light, Mini will find itself in an unusual situation: the small hatchback will retain its classic exterior, but technically it will become closer to future rear-wheel drive BMWs.