Set to be build alongside the standard Mini at the marque's Oxford plant in the UK, the new electric model is expected to form the core of BMW's electrification programme, with plans to offer either hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure electric drivetrains of every model beyond 2020.

"Our adaptable production system is innovative and able to react rapidly to changing customer demand. If required, we can increase production of electric drivetrain motor components quickly and efficiently, in line with market developments," BMW AG Management Board member of Production, Oliver Zipse, said in a statement.

Aside from the Mini, BMW has also confirmed that an all-electric X3 will enter production in 2020, followed one year later by its i NEXT autonomous vehicle reportedly with a range of 500 km. Exact details of the electric Mini, which will be based on the regular three-door model, have so far not yet been released.