Formula E: Mini Electric Pacesetter as Safety Car

Off to the track! The Mini Electric Pacesetter inspired by JCW is the new Safety Car for the ABB FIA Formula E racing series, and according to the manufacturer, it "combines the electrified future of the brand with the rich racing history of John Cooper Works." The car was developed based on the new Cooper SE in a unique collaboration between MINI Design, BMW Motorsport, the FIA, and Formula E. Unfortunately, this extreme version as a Safety Car is not intended for road use. When you see the vehicle, you can see that John Cooper Works and electrification will fit together in the future. Oliver Heilmer, Head of Mini Design, explains:

"Here, function determines form; many design elements are technically driven. For example, the shape of the wheel arches, front and rear bumpers were developed in close consultation with colleagues from BMW Motorsport and are also optimized in terms of weight. And it is precisely this distinctive, technically precise design language that gives the vehicle its high emotionality and fascination."

Many parts are 3D-printed in Oxford

As almost no traditional engine cooling is required in the upper grille area, the front was largely closed off for aerodynamic reasons. Exceptions are only the area below the grille and the striking, almost square openings for brake cooling. The white "front flashing" lights of the Safety Car are harmoniously integrated into the hood. The characteristic bonnet stripes continue over the roof into the rear section. Spats and spoilers are "made in Oxford" and were manufactured using the 3D printing process from recycled carbon. The through-flow rear wing with yellow accent lining on the roof also integrates the light signaling system. It was also manufactured using the 3D printing process at the Oxford plant. The flared wheel arches emphasize the wide track and seamlessly transition into the pronounced rear bumper. It is cut out in the area of the wheels, giving a view of the racing tires with more grip.

Inside, the Mini has been stripped down and features six-point harnesses

The interior is reduced to the essentials. Only the front row of seats is present. The driver area consists of a certified seat with a six-point harness, which is approved for both racing and road use, a steering wheel with a minimally designed carbon impact absorber, and a digital instrument cluster. The central information display was replaced by a carbon cover to further reduce weight. The center console contains the gear selector, handbrake, and controls for the necessary signal lights, all in exposed carbon cladding. In the also streamlined door panel made of carbon with power window and door opener, a fabric strap makes it easier to close the door. Otherwise, the interior consists of a welded roll cage that provides maximum safety. The rest of the stripped interior structure is painted in typical motorsport white for functional reasons.

Exclusively manufactured 3D printed parts also in the interior.

The minimalist impact absorber as well as the boost panel on the right side of the steering wheel are as high-quality custom-made items as the cladding of the center console and the door trim on the driver's side. Another highlight are the interchangeable and also 3D-printed pads on the sports seat. Their innovative structure combines comfort, robustness, and modularity. Customizable in thickness, hardness, and color, they can be perfectly adapted to the physiognomy, weight, and personal taste of the respective driver.

Lightweight construction reduces weight by 130 kilograms

Consistent lightweight design is intended to lower the weight by around 130 kilograms compared to the production version of the MINI Cooper SE to 1230 kilograms. The optimized drive based on the MINI Cooper SE delivers 135 kW and 280 Nm. Thus, the MINI Electric Pacesetter inspired by JCW sprints from 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds (series: 7.3 s), from 0-60 km/h in 3.6 seconds (series: 3.9 s). However, more important in a safety car are the pulling power figures. Here, the MINI Electric Pacesetter inspired by JCW plays out all the advantages of its gearless and high-torque electric drive: 80-120 km/h in 4.3 seconds (series: 4.6 s). Together with the drive, the triple-adjustable (in rebound, compression, height, and camber) motorsport coilover suspension is intended to provide maximum go-kart feeling. The overall package is rounded off by motorsport suspension links, a +10 mm track widening, as well as a 4-piston brake system and wheels from the MINI John Cooper Works GP with MICHELIN Pilot Sport tires in the dimension 245/40R18. The same tires that equip the front wheels of Formula E racing cars.

Premiere on 04/10/2021 at the Rome E-Prix 2021

The MINI Electric Pacesetter will be used for the first time on April 10, 2021, in Rome as part of the second Formula E event of the current 2021 Formula E season. At the wheel will be Bruno Correia, the official FIA Formula E Safety Car driver.

What does this mean?

After the discontinuation of the i8, BMW needed a new pace car and found it in the MINI: It accelerates quickly, sticks well to the road, and makes a statement.