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Active sound mini cooper electrique john cooper works cover
24.02.2025Our projects

We're outfitting and protecting our new show car : Mini Electric JCW!

In this latest article, we take you to Paris to pick up a very special vehicle: a Mini Cooper SE in John Cooper Works finish!

Why this choice?

Quite simply because city life makes anelectric car more practical than our big diesel 5 Series. But above all, this model fits in perfectly with our passion for high-performance, well-prepared vehicles.

This electric Mini develops 184 bhp and claims a range of around 300 km. It's already got a smart JCW finish, with an aggressive body kit, pretty wheels and a sporty interior. However, we're going to personalise it in our own way with a few cosmetic and technical modifications.

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Mini JCW configuration overview

Before we start the modifications, let's take a look at the features of our Mini. It is equipped with an XL spoiler, attractive wheels, an original lowering for a sportier look, a Harman Kardon audio system and top-of-the-range finishes. Despite its compact size, it weighs in at around 1,300 kilos, making it an interesting basis for a customisation project. But for it to become a real show car, it still needs a few adjustments!

Changes planned for the Mini JCW

To transform this Mini into a real show car, a number of modifications will be made:

  • Lowering the chassis for a sportier look and better roadholding.
  • wider rims with wheel spacers to enhance visual appeal.
  • Customised styling with a contrasting roof and rear-view mirrors.
  • Tinted windows for added privacy and style.
  • Installation of a Maxton body kit for an even more aggressive design.
  • Installation of an Active Sound system to give the Mini a signature sound.
  • Addition of graphic details and a Shiftech logo to complete the look.
  • Fitting a satin PPF to protect the bodywork and provide a matt effect like our Tecnica.

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Installing PPF: protection and a unique look

To preserve the bodywork and give it a more aggressive look, we opted for a satin-finish PPF (Paint Protection Film). This top-of-the-range protective film is specially designed to avoid micro-scratches and preserve the vehicle's original condition while changing its visual appearance. The resulting matt effect enhances the sporty, exclusive character of the Mini JCW, giving it a more modern, aggressive look.

The PPF was made to measure, to ensure perfect coverage with returns everywhere to leave nothing to show. Unlike some applications that require the removal of bodywork components, we opted for a longer application, but without removing the badges or panels, guaranteeing a perfect finish.

With this satin PPF, the Mini stands out not only for its looks, but also for the protection it offers against external aggression. In the event of surface scratches, the film's self-healing technology allows regeneration under the effect of heat. This ensures an impeccable finish over the long term, while preserving the vehicle's appearance and durability.

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Installing the Active Sound system: noise for electricity!

The electric Mini has one major drawback: it doesn't make any noise! To make up for this, we installed an Active Sound system from Thor accompanied by its ECHO module. This device adds artificial sound via an external loudspeaker, simulating internal combustion engines (V8, V12, etc.). The installation required meticulous work, in particular to retrieve the correct information from the vehicle's CAN network, but also to make a clean beam path.

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Presentation and test of the Active Sound system

Once installed, it's time for the tests! And the least we can say is that the effect is striking. Between the different sounds available (Aventador, Mustang 66, Jet Fighter...), it's possible to give the Mini a real sound character. Thanks to a mobile application, you can even personalise the sound and volume to suit your preferences.

With the 'jet fighter' mode activated, the Mini sounds like a fighter jet at a red light! A real fun gadget that adds a touch of originality to our show car.

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Road test: an electrifying Mini!

Finally, we took to the road to test the modifications in real-life conditions. Active Sound completely transforms the driving experience. Whether for pleasure or just for fun, this sound module brings a new dimension to the electric Mini.

Unfortunately, on an electric vehicle, it is impossible to simulate gear changes, as the Active Sound system only retrieves the value of accelerator pedal pressure via the CAN bus. In the absence of engine speed, the sound cannot evolve progressively like that of a combustion engine, which limits certain possibilities in terms of sound immersion.

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A completed project, but more developments to come

Our Mini Cooper SE JCW has undergone a spectacular transformation with the addition of satin PPF, custom styling touches and, above all, the installation of the Active Sound Thor system. Its aggressive looks and customisable sound make it a unique show car, capable of surprising both visually and aurally.

But we don't intend to stop there! Other enhancements are in the pipeline, including Maxton body components to improve its design, driver's window tinting, etc... We can't wait to tell you more.

Watch our Youtube video