6 ways the MINI Aceman makes clever use of tech

Regardless of trim level, there are eight driving modes – known as MINI Experience Modes – which fine-tune vehicle settings for maximum performance, efficiency or comfort. Each includes unique, colourful graphics showing the most important information on the central display, while new driving sounds and ambient lighting dial in a uniquely immersive experience for the journey ahead – wherever it leads.

Fast, fuss-free chargingAt home, at work, or on the road – electric vehicles have an abundance of options when it comes to charging. With three energy-efficient powertrain options the Aceman stretches every kilowatt-hour of energy in its battery (just as you’d expect from a MINI) and simplifies the charging experience too.

Every version features 11kW AC charging capability, offering faster top-ups at compatible public chargers and homes with a three-phase electrical supply. MINI has also included DC rapid charging across the range, capable of charging from 10-80% in around half an hour (29 minutes for Aceman E, and 31 minutes for Aceman SE and JCW Aceman).**

There’s no need to plan those breaks before you leave. The MINI Navigation System calculates the fastest route from A to B, including the shortest and most convenient charging locations. It even monitors real-time availability data and pre-warms the battery ready to accept the fastest possible charging speeds, helping you get back on the road as quickly as possible.

MINI also addressed payment bottlenecks. The MINI Charging Card provides tap-and-pay access to hundreds of thousands of chargers across Europe, while the car’s Plug & Charge capability enables automated payments wherever it’s supported. Whether you’re a seasoned EV driver or just getting started, it’s one less thing to think about. 

Connected infotainmentThe Aceman’s distinctive circular OLED touchscreen is a classic concept updated for the 21st century. A nod to the original Mini’s central speedometer, it’s the focal point of the interior and puts a multitude of useful features and information within easy reach (and sight) of occupants. 

All trim levels include high-speed 5G data connection and MINI Operating System 9, which is meticulously designed for easy use on the move. Widgets on each side of the display enable drivers to switch between functions, while commonly used features such as navigation, media, telephone and climate settings are accessible from a bar along the bottom, just like a smartphone home screen. The most important figures – speed and battery state of charge – are always shown at the top.

It's highly customisable, too. Drivers can arrange their favourite features into a ‘toolbelt’ that swipes up from the bottom of the screen, select their own wallpaper – matched to ambient lighting – in the ‘Personal’ drive mode, or turn the entire display into an analogue-style speedometer, just like the original Mini. 

As you’d expect, the presentation is impressively thoughtful. The Aceman SE and John Cooper Works Aceman include a head-up display as standard, putting important information in the driver’s line of sight, while Exclusive and Sport trims can be equipped with an augmented reality navigation system – which is available through the MINI Connected subscription – that overlays directions over an image of the junction. It’s all the information you want, where you want it. 

Personal assistant Need a helping hand while you’re driving? Simply press the button on the steering wheel or say “Hey MINI!” and the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant will do it for you.

The Aceman’s virtual assistant can operate media navigation, media, climate and telephone functions hands-free, but there’s more to it than voice commands. The system understands conversational requests, such as telling it you’re hungry, craving a caffeine hit or checking the weather at your destination. It’ll even tell you a joke, if you ask.

Better still, your assistant will learn over time, differentiating between requests from the driver or passenger and adapting to your dialogue and habits. Combined with location data, it can automate tasks such as figuring out entrances to car parks and even open the driver’s side window as you approach the ticket machine. 

Automated parkingMinis are synonymous with space efficiency, and the Aceman is no different. At a little over four metres long and just under two metres wide, it’s large enough for families inside while being perfectly proportioned for city life. And it’s just as easy in a tight spot as the original Mini.

All versions include 12 ultrasonic sensors and a reversing camera, enabling the car to identify and manoeuvre into a vacant parking space hands-free. From SE upwards, Comfort Access means it’ll also automatically unlock itself and welcome drivers with an animated light sequence as they approach, which makes it easier to find in busy car parks.

For even more convenience, Parking Assistant Plus – part of the Level 3 equipment pack – adds 360-degree cameras for an even better view of your surroundings. And with Parking Assistant Professional – part of the MINI Connected upgrade – you also get the Remote Parking function, which lets you back in and out of a space using the smartphone app, so there’s no need to struggle with bags, buggies and getting the kids in the back.