MINI Vision' previews MINI's future design direction
Anders Warming, Head of MINI Design, claims the refreshed appearance of the MINI Vision features "new creative impulses that advance the cause of premium quality in the compact class".
The presentation of the MINI Vision at the July 26 unveiling was based around a 3D hologram, which MINI says their designers use, in conjunction with traditional sketches and clay models, to test and fine-tune creative ideas.
MINI Vision exterior
Finished in 'Glamorous Gold', the overall design of the MINI Vision is clearly more 'evolution' than 'revolution', but features new touches like an hexagonal grille inspired by the classic Mini, with the bumper and auxiliary lights incorporated into the grille. Elliptical LED headlights feature a permanently illuminated outer ring that serve as Daytime Running Lights (DRL).
The roof is separated from the glasshouse by a chrome strip, while the separation between the glasshouse and lower body is done with a strip of what MINI call "organo metal". This envelops the side indicators, while also running over the wheelarches and lower sills, enveloping the painted body sections.
MINI describe organo metal as a strong, mouldable composite fibre material with a unique texture.
The body includes 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.
MINI Vision interior
With a brief of "providing maximum comfort within minimal exterior dimensions", the interior of the MINI Vision features sweeping doors, a "floating" centre console, and "lounge seats".
Quirky design touches include elastic fabric strap door trims, arranged in a Union Jack flag design, that are designed to hold a magazine, mobile phone or drink bottle. A "MINI Disco" floor features changeable colours and lights in the footwell, that co-ordinates with the concept's 'Driving Experience Control'.
A modular interior design allows for elements like Smartphone holders, a storage box, cup holder or small safe to be attached and removed as and when required.
A key element of the MINI Vision interior is the 'Driving Experience Control' switch, which allows the driver to choose between a pure and focused or fully-interconnected mode, with the two modes expressed in different coloured ambient lighting.
As well as changing the colour scheme, the Driving Experience Control switch also changes the face of the familiar MINI circular central display. Depending on the selection, drivers will be met by either a classic, analogue-style view or a modern 3D look.
MINI Vision colours and materials
Aside from the aforementioned Glamorous Gold paint- a unique gold-tinged orange tone never previously in the MINI catalogue - and organo metal highlights, the MINI Vision also features a tough, dark-blue interior fabric for the seats and sections of interior trim.
In conclusion, MINI claim the MINI Vision has an unbeatable scope for personalisation and an extremely sporty and precise design, tailored to the needs and preferences of the individual driver.
Images: MINI
