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MINImal Design
The primary concept of the J01 MINI Electric is its minimalistic design. “You’re executing less, but it truly heightens the perceived worth,” Heilmer articulates. A central point was the shortening of the bonnet, which, according to Heilmer, aligns more closely with the vintage MINI Coopers – known for their notably brief bonnets. The MINI Electric displays a briefer bonnet than the petrol-powered F66, and the windshield is also more forward. The bonnet carries a couple of advantages, as per Heilmer. Visually, it approaches the antique automobiles. Furthermore, it aids in the event of a collision.
Heilmer mentions that during a collision, the bonnet’s positioning diminishes the likelihood of harming it – saving everyone some funds. There are considerably fewer elements, generally, adorning the front of the vehicle – “three or four parts and the front bumper, that’s it,” as mentioned by Heilmer.
Reasons for the F66 and the J01 MINI Cooper Being Slightly Distinct
Therefore, we have just underscored that the bonnet and windshield slightly differ between the J01 (Electric) and F66 (petrol-driven) MINI Cooper. Nonetheless, there are various other modifications, such as distinct seat dimensions, armrests, and speaker positions. Shouldn’t the two be alike? Heilmer commences by elucidating how the design process commenced before the corporation had even disclosed a combustion engine variant. While they started outlining a novel interior emphasizing high quality and low complexity (few parts), things took a turn when the F66 received confirmation.
“He starts by pointing out all the similarities with the F56,” begins Heilmer. This is mainly because the team referred to their J01 blueprints and the existing F56 architecture to merge the two together. When it came to packaging, challenges emerged, like accommodating an exhaust pipe stretching along the vehicle’s length. Although there are minor discrepancies between the two cars, Heilmer mentions, “It shouldn’t be something that causes you any concern. It’s still part of the same family.”
Other MINI Items
Maybe a smaller MINI isn’t as improbable as one might think. “We’ve been deep in discussions within the MINI team, exploring MINI’s heritage and related matters,” he explains. “We consistently circle back to the idea that… maybe there should be a tinier version?” This is something the design team has actively debated, primarily for the European market, where he emphasizes that “size plays a significant role.” Undoubtedly, he implies that compact cars do exceptionally well in Europe, in contrast to the American market, where larger vehicles tend to dominate.
MINI is also gearing up to release some limited-production models shortly. Heilmer confirmed that the design team is developing approximately 20 to 25 specialized editions of new MINI cars, offering unique colors and specifications.
When asked about the possibility of an extremely limited production vehicle, Heilmer appears uncertain. “Can you envision a MINI priced at 500k, for example,” he muses rhetorically. “In terms of philosophy, I would be thrilled to pursue it. However, the reality check is the real challenge,” he admits. It doesn’t seem like we’ll be seeing a MINI equivalent of the 3.0 CSL anytime soon. “But, it excites me as it might be a question for the succeeding generation,” he ponders.
We’d undoubtedly appreciate a highly exclusive JCW initiative – no opinions on the pricing – what about you?
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