2010 MINI Life Ball Edition

Over the years, often used as a base Mini special edition model and always has many enthusiasts from marketing. Now, Francisco Costa from Calvin Klein, Diane von Furstenberg and Kenneth Cole will create three special Minis to raffle off at this year’s edition of “Life Ball”, the biggest HIV/AIDS charity event in Europe that will take place in Vienna on 17th July 2010.

Previous Life Ball Mini specials have been designed by Missoni (2003), Ferré (2004), Versace (2005), Diesel (2006), Mario Testino (2007), Agent Provocateur (2008) and, last year, The Blonds for Katy Perry.

2010 MINI Life Ball Edition mode on behalf of Calvin Klein, US fashion house’s creative director Francisco Costa will be designing the new Mini Countryman crossover. US fashion designer with Belgian roots Diane von Furstenberg, will artistically enhance the MINI Hatch, while New York’s Kenneth Cole apply his style on a Mini Convertible.

2011 Mini WRC

2010 Mini WRC presented at Paris Motor Show and Mini announces that it will contest the FIA World Rally Championship from 2011, will receive its world premiere at this international motor show.

The 2011 World Rally Championship will see the new Mini WRC contesting in six of 13 scheduled rounds, with MINI competing in the full 2012 season. In addition, Prodrive plans to make available customer versions to independent teams for use in the championship.

The interest in motorsport among the present generation of MINI customers is massive. The WRC provides an excellent communications platform for the Mini Countryman, upon which the Mini WRC is based.

The heart of the 2011 Mini WRC is the BMW Motorsport-developed 1.6 litre, fourcylinder Di turbo-charged engine which can be deployed not only in the WRC, but also in other championships running to the FIA’s Super2000 regulations. The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox. For its outings on the rally stages, the MINI Countryman chassis has been fitted with a roll cage developed by Prodrive, which exceeds the strict safety requirements of the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

2010 AC Schnitzer MINI E Police Look Concept

AC Schnitzer built the MINI E Police Look Concept to realize a car that can satisfy tuning aficionados and also meet safety standards. It is being showcased at the 2010 Essen Motor Show.

The MINI E Police car is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp on tap and plenty of low-down torque (maximum is 220 Nm or 162 lb-ft). It completes the standard sprint from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 152 km/h (95 mph).

2010 MINI E Police Look Concept finished in the classic Polizei colors, the concept has the latest signaling system from Hella mounted on the roof and special wraps from Foliatec. AC Schnitzer’s comprehensive tuning package made it even better while the police livery is an interesting take on the “safety” theme.

Tuner added modified front and rear bumpers, plus lowered side skirts, improve the car’s looks, while bonnet vents and a large roof spoiler complete the bodykit. Also opted for new alloys, the 18-inch MI 2 wheels feature an 8-spoke design and are wrapped in high-performance Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tires. Stopping power is provided by an upgraded brake system, boasting 328mm 4-pot caliper (in front) ventilated disks. There is also a complete suspension kit.

In interior of AC Schnitzer MINI E Police Look Concept includes the boys in blue are greeted by aluminum pedals, footrest and handbrake handle.

2010 MINI Paceman Concept

Mini Paceman Concept set to be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Mini calls the Paceman a “Sports Activity Coupe” (sort of like the BMW X6) and insists it’s the first of its kind in the small premium segment.

Sporting, masculine appearance blends with versatile character. Large headlights with chrome surrounds extend deep into the front wings and, together with the distinctively contoured bonnet, emphasise the imposing nose of the Paceman. The radiator grille is essentially the same as that of the Cooper S Countryman barring additional air intakes in the bumper to deliver improved brake ventilation and the incorporation of new deep set fog lights.

MINI Paceman Concept features a fresh interpretation of the front wing and side indicator that attracts the eye from the A-pillars down to the unique design 19 inch front wheels. This rugged and sturdy design element is complemented by dark wheel arch surrounds with matching side skirts that emphasize the masculine, sporting nature of Paceman.

As the waistline rises the flat roofline flows into a wide C-pillar that appears to be transparent. The windows appear to wrap around the car like a band of glass with the roof ‘suspended’ on top and painted in a striking, contrasting colour. This is known as the ‘helmet’ roof. The MINI Paceman Concept measures 4,110 millimetres in length, 1,789 millimetres in width and 1,541 millimetres in height..

Sporty interior of Paceman is environment that exudes premium quality and funky design. The instrument panel of the MINI study is defined by its distinctive, concave forms and the sporting yet functional impression it creates. The central air vents, Central Speedo and gearshift lever feature outer rings in a contrasting colour while large side air. Shaped armrests with large stowage compartments, ergonomically designed door pulls and the speakers for the sound system are embedded in the main element of this ellipse.

The MINI John Cooper Works 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged engine gives the MINI Paceman Concept the capacity to deliver the outstanding performance its appearance promises. This 16 valve, four cylinder unit develops 211 hp and generates maximum torque of 260 Nm (192 lb-ft), the latter value having the capacity to reach 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) in brief bursts thanks to the Overboost function. ALL4 features an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive which varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles.

The front axle features MacPherson spring struts with lower track control arms which, combined with Electric Power Steering with speed-sensitive power assistance, plays a major role in delivering the response and agility customers expect from a MINI.

2010 MINI Streetworker by Schmidt Revolution

German-based company, Schmidt Revolution has unveiled its latest creation, a conceptual version of the MINI Clubman Cooper S called the “Streetworker”. The tuner usually primarily specializes in alloy wheels but occasionally presents fully tuned projects.

The concept car’s low-rider appearance is achieved by the Streetec air suspension, which allows the driver to lower the ride height by 60 mm or increase it by 40 mm over the stock model.

The tuned project is focus point on German firm’s new Cirrus alloy wheel series, seen here in an 18-inch version. It’s offering for customers to be ordered of funky rims in any color ranging from the matte blue on this tune to any other tint including carbon black. On the MINI Clubman project car the alloy wheels are shod in 215/35R18 Continental rubber.

Schmidt Revolution went ahead and covered the MINI Clubman in a matte blue foil wrap and a contrasting matte black roof finish and trim detailing. The tune is finished off with an engine kit that lifts output to 200HP and 250Nm of peak torque.

2010 MINI Beachcomber Concept

A concept car will be brought by MINI at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (16-24 January 2010) in Detroit. MINI Beachcomber Concept is a creativity that cross borders to enhance driving pleasure and combining them with the vision of a radically open body concept.

At Beachcomber MINI Concept uses a new all-wheel drive system, ALL4, and a flexible interior make this car ideal for a spontaneous and active experience. It is designed without doors or a conventional roof, and all other body elements that could limit the intensity of the occupants’ encounter with their surrounding world. This allows the driver and up to three passengers to connect with their surroundings – whether cruising through town, enjoying rough tracks in the mountains, or breezing along the beach. The vehicle’s space concept, partnered with a modern drivetrain technology, ensures a highly emotional driving experience. In the event of bad weather, drivers can either use the soft roof or the lightweight door and roof elements, all of which fit easily and can be installed within a few minutes.

MINI designers were inspired by the new MINI crossover production model, which they enhanced beyond the realms of urban mobility to create the MINI Beachcomber Concept. In creating this concept, they utilized the technical qualities of the production crossover model, and made adaptations to offer the ultimate expression of freedom. The result is a new open concept driving experience for all your senses, plus a greater degree of versatility than ever experienced before in a MINI.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept offers a wide range of technology and features for driving pleasure in the 21st century. The premium manufacturer touches in the areas of design, drivetrain, safety and production technology bring together the undiluted character of a concept car with a wide range of possibilities in the real world. Offers all the flexibility and spaciousness required for an active lifestyle.

The vehicle’s rollover safety also meets the highest demands made of an open car and it is able to withstand even extreme situations. The frame on the passenger cell is formed by substantially reinforced A-pillars, and the D-pillar bar is complete with an integrated lateral support element at the rear of the car. It is made of high-strength steel for maximum stiffness. This additional safety component is finished in body color, and reinforces the commitment to safety. MINI Beachcomber Concept is also able to carry extra-long objects, such as surfboards, with ease.

The body of the MINI Beachcomber Concept concentrates on the essential and leaves no doubt that this is a genuine MINI. At first sight, unmistakable design elements reminiscent of the brand clearly stand out. Like the MINI Crossover Concept presented for the first time at the Paris Motor Show in autumn 2008, the new model clearly reflects the ongoing process of MINI design and the introduction of MINI design language in new types of vehicles. Indeed, both the smooth and firm design of the body and proportions typical of MINI show that this is clearly a member of the range.

The entire front section of the car is angled towards the road. The engine compartment lid is powerfully chiseled, and the powerdome, with its integrated air insert, symbolizes the outstanding performance of the turbocharged engine within the car.

The hexagon radiator grille, again typical of MINI, comes with contour lines carried over directly from the front look of the Mini Moke. With its vertical position, three robust crossbars and additional integrated headlights, the radiator grille gives the MINI Beachcomber Concept a particularly powerful and convincing presence.

2010 MINI Cooper S Rainbow

This year the MINI create new innovations and began from April 2010 MINI will introduce a new level of customisation and expression for those who want to take personalisation to a new level. Three new MINI Cooper S Rainbow paint options will offer a deeper dimension of reflective quality than ever before seen on a MINI. A water-based basecoat colour produces an amazing rainbow effect in bright sunlight that changes the character of the MINI completely. Available in three different colours – Sunlight Metallic, Asteroid Metallic and Nightlife Metallic – these unique paint finishes open a new chapter in MINI personalisation.

The MINI Cooper S presents the new 1.6-litre engine with special feature unique in the small car segment. It develops maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm and has peak torque of 240 Nm on tap from as low down the engine speed range as 1,600 rpm.

2011 MINI Countryman

MINI Crossover family car presents a fourth model, the MINI Countryman. Car blend between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. As the first model in the MINI range with four doors and a wide-opening rear lid, even provide multipurpose space at the back. the MINI Countryman offers all the characteristic features of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, handling, efficiency and customisation in new, fascinating style.

The interior is quite spacious and provides many facilities for the passengers comfort. And also the Center Rail forms an unconventional, visual and functional connection between the front seats and the rear passenger compartment.

The MINI Countryman provides exclusive color options. Further options are the extra-large Panorama roof, Adaptive Headlights in combination with xenon headlight units, a heated windscreen, a towbar, light-alloy wheels ranging in size from 16 to 19 inches, sports suspension lowering the entire car by 10 millimetres or almost 0.4″, as well as the wide range of John Cooper Works Performance Components.

The power range extends from 66 kW/90 hp in the MINI One D Countryman all the way to 135 kW/184 hp in the MINI Cooper S Countryman. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the top model comes for the first time not only with a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, but also with fully variable valve management offering by far the best balance of engine power and fuel consumption in its class. The six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard, the petrol engine models are also available with six-speed automatic complete with Steptronic.

2010 MINI E Race

E-MINI has shown his prowess in the testing at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife Notorious circuit to break any records but to show that on their all-electric vehicle test cans manage a respectable lap time on the ‘Ring.

Amazing, a lightly modified race-spec version of the all-electric MINI ‘E’ completed a lap of the legendary 20.8 km-long “Green Hell” in a time of 09:51.45 minutes recording a top speed of 187 km/h or 116mph. It is to provide an impressive showcase of the great potential of the MINI E and its environment-friendly drive concept.

The 2010 MINI E Race is the electric hatchback was fitted with a special lightweight body and a roll cage, while other components, such as the suspension, brakes and tires, were race specification. In addition, the car shares the same 150 kW/204 hp electric motor, supplied with energy from 5,088 lithium-ion battery cells, with the standard MINI E, while power from the electric motor is sent to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox with a lengthened gear ratio.

Model-specific conversions

• Interior: Recaro Pro Racer (HANS) CFRP seat, 6-way safety harness (3-inch), suede leather steering wheel 320 mm diameter

• Roll cage: Bolt construction (lightweight) CrMo4, approx. 35 kg incl. mounting materials

• Transmission: Mechanical multi-plate limited-slip differential with 40°/50° ramp breakover angle, 55 Nm preload

• Engine: Adjusted engine management settings

• Suspension: KW Variant 3 coilover suspension, tuned to the higher axle loads of the MINI E Race with modified damping characteristics and adjusted springs

• Exterior: Diffusers, rear wing, CFRP body parts

• Safety: Integration of special race ABS Differentiated main switch concept

Paris Debuts: MINI Countryman WRC

MINI has unveiled the new MINI WRC debuted at the Paris Auto Show. The new MINI WRC, which will contest the FIA World Rally Championship from 2011, will receive its world premiere at this international motor show. In addition, Kris Meeke (GB) has been confirmed as one of the drivers who will contest the championship with this brand new rally car.

The MINI WRC, powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder Di turbo-charged engine, recently received a baptism of fire, acquitting itself well during initial testing at Prodrive’s rally track. The company commenced development of the car in 2009, and a concept of the MINI WRC will be displayed in Paris.

The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox. For its outings on the rally stages, the MINI Countryman chassis has been fitted with a roll cage developed by Prodrive, which exceeds the strict safety.

Source: MINI




Press Release

Paris.Visitors to the 2010 Mondial de l'Automobile in Paris (FR) can look forward to a special treat: The new MINI WRC, which will contest the FIA World Rally Championship from 2011, will receive its world premiere at this international motor show. In addition, Kris Meeke (GB) has been confirmed as one of the drivers who will contest the championship with this brand new rally car.

The MINI WRC, powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder Di turbo-charged engine, recently received a baptism of fire, acquitting itself well during initial testing at Prodrive's rally track. The company commenced development of the car in 2009, and a concept of the MINI WRC will be displayed in Paris. "The Paris Motor Show is the perfect stage, on which to launch our MINI WRC," says Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing. "The response to our announcement that MINI will return to the world of rallying next year was very positive. The FIA World Rally Championship is the pinnacle of rallying, making it the ideal platform for demonstrating the competitive spirit of our brand. The development of the car isrunning on schedule, and the preparations for the world championship are in full swing. The MINI Countryman production model provided the ideal basis for our new world championship challenger."

The 2011 World Rally Championship will see the new MINI WRC contesting in six of 13 scheduled rounds, with MINI competing in the full 2012 season. In addition, Prodrive plans to make available customer versions to independent teams for use in the championship.

Rallying is hardly unchartered territory for MINI. In the past this popular motor sporting genre decisively shaped the image of the brand. The MINI Cooper S became a true legend through its numerous victories on Rally Monte Carlo. The European Rally Championship, too, saw MINI notch up serial successes. "MINI can look back on a successful tradition in rallying," says Dr WolfgangArmbrecht, Senior Vice President Brand Management MINI. "The interest in motorsport among the present generation of MINI customers is massive. The WRC provides an excellent communications platform for the MINI Countryman,upon which the MINI WRC is based."

Prodrive, an experienced motorsport operation, was chosen as the partner in the quest to continue MINI's success story. The company, founded by David Richards, is viewed as one of the most respected and successful in rallying. "This project is a truly passionate opportunity," believes Richards. "MINI is a cult brand which left a lasting impression during its previous motorsport campaigns. We are both extremely happy and proud to be on board as a partner when MINI returns to rallying. We aim to use 2011 as a preparatory year, amassing experience in order to ensure we are fully competitive from the start of the following season. But let's not underestimate the task ahead of us nor the stiff competition we will face on the way, however our target is firmly set on winning the World Championship title again with MINI."

Prodrive was founded in 1984, and has established itself as one of motorsport's leading independent teams. Currently employing over 500 staff, the company is based in Banbury (GB). Among other successes, Prodrive has to date won six World Rally Championships, five British Touring Car titles, and scored three class victories in France's classic Le Mans 24 Hours.

Kris Meeke has been confirmed as the first driver to compete for Prodrive in the MINI WRC. The rally ace from Dungannon (GB) first came to prominence when he won the British Junior Rally Championship in 2002. Numerous victories and titles were to follow. With support from his long-term mentor and former rally world champion, the late Colin McRae (GB), Meeke has been able tosuccessfully establish himself on the rally scene. The Northern Irishman celebrated his most recent success last year, when he won the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC).

The MINI Countryman is the youngest MINI model and also the first to be equipped with an all-wheel-drive system. Therefore this model provided the logical basis for a competitive rally derivative. The flagship MINI Cooper S Countryman is powered by a 1,6-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, supplemented not only by a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, but also fullyvariable valve management - so offering by far the best relationship between engine power and fuel consumption in its class. The engine produces an impressive 135 kW / 184 bhp, and accelerates the MINI Cooper S Countryman from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds.

As part of the MINIMALISM concept, a range of fuel- and emission-reducing features are fitted as standard and/or in appropriate combinations, including Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start/Stop function, Shift Point Display and the need-based operation of ancillary components.

All MINI Cooper S Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman are optionally available with permanent MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive, with an electro-hydraulic differential positioned directly on the final drive varying the distribution from front to rear in an infinite process. Under normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the engine's power goes to the rear wheels; under extreme conditions up to 100 per cent, offering a new, high-traction rendition of the agile handling so typical of MINI.

The heart of the MINI WRC is the BMW Motorsport-developed 1.6 litre, fourcylinder Di turbo-charged engine which can be deployed not only in the WRC, but also in other championships running to the FIA's Super2000 regulations. The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox. For its outings on the rally stages, the MINI Countryman chassis has been fitted with a roll cage developed by Prodrive, which exceeds the strict safety.