BMW of North America has issued a safety recall for 12,535 Cooper SE electric vehicles produced between 2019 and 2024 due to potential battery overheating concerns. The recall affects US-market vehicles and involves a software update to address faults in the high-voltage system.
While the exact root cause remains undetermined, BMW has identified potential issues with the battery and high-voltage system. The software update includes a diagnostic function to detect malfunctions and prevent thermal events by discharging the battery below 30%.
Affected customers will also receive a new battery module or assembly if their vehicles are within the warranty coverage period. The new vehicle warranty offers peace of mind for 4 years or 50,000 miles (nearly 80,000 kilometers), while the battery is covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles (just around 160,000 kilometers). This means that affected customers can rest assured that their vehicles will be repaired or replaced at no cost to them, provided they meet the warranty requirements.
BMW has taken proactive steps to address this safety issue and ensure the safety of its customers. The recall and software updates are part of the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. BMW has acknowledged two incidents involving a specific condition.
No accidents or more severe consequences have been reported to date. Dealers have been instructed to install a software update through the OBD II port, and owner notification letters will be sent via first-class mail around October 7, 2024. MINI’s previous-generation Cooper SE, available for the 2024 model year, offers a starting price of $30,900 without destination charges or optional extras.
Key features include a driving range of 114 miles, an 80% charge time of 35 minutes at 50 kilowatts, 181 horsepower, and a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.9 seconds. The Cooper SE is one of the most affordable electric passenger vehicles currently on the market. However, the Nissan Leaf, priced at $28,140 for the 2025 model year, holds the title of the most affordable zero-emission vehicle. Nissan will replace its electric hatchback with an electric SUV in early 2025.
MINI has already developed a successor to the Cooper SE, the J01-series Cooper SE. It will be joined by the Cooper E, both of which will be produced in China by Spotlight Automotive. In 2026, the J01-series Cooper E and Cooper SE will also begin production at MINI’s Oxford Plant in the UK.
The J01-series Cooper SE and Cooper E will feature a new, more efficient electric powertrain and a larger battery pack. The Cooper SE is expected to have a driving range of around 150 miles, while the Cooper E will have a range of around 120 miles. Both models will also be equipped with the latest in-car technology, including a large touchscreen display, wireless charging, and advanced driver assistance systems.
The introduction of the J01-series Cooper SE and Cooper E marks an important step in MINI’s electrification strategy. The company has committed to offering an electric version of every model in its lineup by 2030. MINI’s focus on electrification is in line with the global trend towards more sustainable transportation.
