Forget leather in the new Mini Aceman; it's recycled material with its low environmental impact , or nothing. An uncluttered look with the large central screen and nothing in front of the driver beyond the head-up display, disguises the fact that some of the switchgear is a bit hard to see on the run.

The overall look, however, is fresh and neat and maintains plenty of that famous Mini-ness.

Every version of the Aceman is well equipped with a sunroof, full wireless connectivity, digital radio, dual-zone climate control, augmented reality navigation, 19 inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start and folding exterior mirrors.

All versions of the Aceman are pure EVs with an electric motor driving the front wheels. The range starts with a 135kW motor offering 290Nm, while the SE gets a larger motor for 160kW and 330Nm. Batteries are 38.5kWh and 49.2kWh, respectively. A single-speed reduction transmission is all that is needed thanks to the electric motor's torque.

A five-seater, the Aceman uses a 60/40 split rear seat with three child restraint tethers and a lap-sash seat-belt for each positon. Front seats are cloth in the base-model E and as synthetic leather-look material for the SE. The latter also gets the lovely JCW front seats.

Acceleraton is strong rather than startling (as some EVs can be). Mini claims just under eight seconds for the E model to 100km/h and just over seven seconds for the SE. Both figures feel about right from the driver's seat.

Based on official tests, the Aceman E features a maximum range of 310km, while the larger battery-pack of the SE provides a potential 406km. Both versions of the Aceman will travel farther in urban conditions than in freeway running.