it's called MINI STRIP , is the latest prototype of the British brand and imagine what a model could be developed based on the premises of “Simplicity, Transparency, Sustainability”.
Developed on the basis of the 100% electric Cooper SE and in partnership with fashion designer Paul Smith, the MINI STRIP has lost many of the typical MINI elements and a lot of weight, being reduced to “its structural essence”.
What does this consist of? To start with, the exterior of the body did not receive a traditional paint job (only anti-corrosion protection) and the plastic elements were screwed on. The splitter and details on the rear bumper were produced using 3D printing and recycled plastic.
Also new are the aerodynamic grille and wheel covers, both produced using recycled Perspex, the same material used in the panoramic roof. Interestingly, the taillights are of a pre-restyling version, abdicating the graphics with the UK flag.
What else changes?
The “diet” to which the MINI STRIP was subjected dictated the disappearance of traditional interior finishes. Thus, the entire metallic structure is visible, whether on the A, B and C pillars or on the roof.
A material that gained special prominence inside the STRIP was recycled cork, appearing at the top of the dashboard, on the sun visors and on the top of the doors, replacing the traditional plastic. As for the rest of the dashboard, a semi-transparent one-piece with smoked glass finishes, the instrument panel gave way to a place to place the smartphone.
Recycled cork is one of the most used materials in the interior.
Also on the interior, the aluminum steering wheel lined with a ribbon used on bicycle handlebars, the seats made with recycled materials, the mats made of recycled rubber and the seat belts and door handles made using the material are highlighted. used in climbing ropes.
And mechanics?
As we told you the MINI STRIP is based on the MINI Cooper SE. Thus, animating the latest MINI prototype we find an electric motor with 184 hp (135 kW) of power and 270 Nm of torque.
Powering it is a battery with a capacity of 32.6 kWh, which in the “normal” versions of the Cooper SE allows it to travel between 235 and 270 km (WLTP values converted to NEDC), values that, given the drastic weight reduction of the MINI STRIP, should have improved on this prototype.
Although MINI does not plan to produce the STRIP, the British brand intends to use some of the ideas employed in this prototype in its future models. Which of them? We will have to wait and find out.