MINI shows future design direction with Vision Concept :

MINI has presented the Vision Concept, a study that gives indications on the future design direction for the brand and for the next-gen MINI Cooper.



Presented at MINI’s design studio byHead of Design Anders Warming, the Vision Concept combines the classic MINI elements and proportions – including the clear separation of the roof, glasshouse and body – with some new features.



The front end is characterized by the new hexagonal grille with integrated bumper and auxiliary lights and the LED headlights with ring-shaped daytime running lights – both introduced in 2011 with the RocketMan Concept.



The chrome strip wrapped around the top of the body, the distinctive side indicator element and the black band framing the lower edge of the car are all integrated into a flowing, interconnected unit made from the so-called “organo metal”, an extremely mouldable and lightweight material produced by pressing various fibres into a composite, and characterized by a unique texture comparable to that of fabrics.



The body also features an aerodynamic air intake and outlet around each front wheel arch, airflow-optimised wheel rims and exterior mirrors, and an integral, air-channelling roof spoiler.



At the rear, the muscular shoulders are combined with new tail lights with a circle-shaped lighting signature and chromed surrounds.




Interior Design



The interior of the MINI Vision features a transparent and open cockpit, sweeping doors and a “floating” centre console allow the driver and passengers to experience the sensation of a wide open space coupled with the benefits of a space-saving small car.



Lounge seats featuring dynamic piping add the finishing touch to the unique interior ambience.

Among the distinctive solutions are the elastic fabric straps on the insides of the doors – arranged like the stripes of the Union Jack flag – which also have a functional purpose, allowing to hold a magazine, mobile phone or drinks bottle within easy reach



The fresh layer of variability added by the MINI click system offers additional scope for customising the interior. Smartphone holders, a storage box, cup holder or small safe can be attached and removed in a single movement as and when required.

The interior of the MINI Vision as a whole can also be adapted to a variety of interaction requirements with similar flexibility and immediacy.

The Driving Experience Control switch allows the driver to choose between a pure and focused or fully-interconnected mode.

The two modes are expressed in different colours using calm, clear light and dynamic, energy-charged shades. Another highlight of the fully-interconnected mode is the “MINI Disco” floor.

Here, an expressive interplay of colours, light and forms transforms the footwells as the MINI Vision appears to come vibrantly to life.



As well as turning the ambient colour scheme of the interior on its head, the Driving Experience Control switch also changes the face of the familiar MINI circular central display.

Depending on their selection, drivers will be met by either a classic, analogue- style view or an impressive 3D look, which gives the full suite of display elements an unaccustomed depth.
Colours and materials

Thelook of the Vision Concept is deeply influenced by the Glamorous Goldpaint finish – a shimmering gold-tinged orange tone – combined with the shade and texture of the “organo” metal.

A tough, dark-blue fabric recalling the properties of a high-quality suit is employed for the seats and sections of interior trim.

The seamless transitions of the various materials between the interior and exterior bring consistency to the MINI Vision despite the use of different materials and textures.