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.

2010 Mini Cooper Christmas Gifts

MINI has released its 2010 MINI Christmas Collection and autoevolution has photos of the items available. The new collection includes Mini Cooper Christmas gifts suited for all ages, from the youngest Mini fans, to people who got the chance to drive the original Mini.

MINI's latest Lifestyle Collection includes numerous items ranging from the Sonoro Internet Radio that can receive over 18,000 web radio stations via WiFi or LAN and the Cuckoo Clock, to the Snow Rocker toboggan, a Baby Racer, pedal cars, the Baby Rocker Newborn Set and various other toys.

Furthermore, the MINI Cuckoo Clock comes in a classic chrome look and has an original MINI speedometer-style dial. Also, you can store Christmas photos and videos on the MINI-branded USB Stick.

The list of Mini Cooper Christmas gifts for her includes in 2010 various boots, a briefcase, a Rooftop Cabin Trolley, a Lapeer Hat and a stylish umbrella.




Press Release

Munich. Time flies, and before you know it Christmas is just around the corner. To make the annual gift hunt that much easier, MINI has put together a selection of the best ideas for all the family. The MINI Lifestyle Collection has something everybody will enjoy unwrapping under the Christmas tree.

The best gift ideas for him.

MINI has teamed up with design audio products experts sonoro audio to bring sounds from around the world into our living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and offices. The result of the cooperation is the MINI Limited Edition sonoro Internet radio, which combines urban chic with a boundless musical experience. The MINI rocks sonoro limited edition of the elements W Internet radio can receive over 18,000 web radio stations via WiFi or LAN. The design radio also boasts a media player function for streaming music libraries direct from a computer. The alarm clock, sleep and snooze functions, Radio Frequency remote control and eDock external iPod® docking station with charging function are all easy to use.

Whether you’re setting off on a road trip with your motorbike or taking a tour on a quad bike, trike or snowmobile, you’ll always be playing safe with the stylish MINI Jet Helmet. The helmet meets all the relevant safety standards and plays the stylish understatement card to perfection. A Union Jack print and bonnet stripes provide a spotless retro look, while high-quality workmanship ensures the requisite protection. The Jet Helmet is made from a fibreglass and synthetic compound, and has a polycarbonate visor. Other features include a quick-release fastener and an antiallergenic, removable and washable inner lining.

The MINI Calendar 2011 is the work of Hamburg artist and graphic designer Wolfgang Block. “Transformation and Crossover” is the basic idea behind each month’s image. The artist blends differing techniques – such as Rorschach, graffiti and pop art – in a personal interpretation of the collision between fantasy and reality in the MINI Accessories world. It’s enough to turn any bare wall into an eye-catching canvas.

This cult MINI Cuckoo Clock comes in a classic chrome look and has an original MINI speedometer-style dial. At the strike of each hour the garage on the underside opens its doors and a detailed miniature MINI moves around the dial, accompanied by faithfully reproduced MINI engine and horn sounds. A small photo sensor enables the clock to distinguish between day and night, and therefore ensures a peaceful night’s sleep.

The elegant MINI USB Stick borrows the unmistakable design of the MINI ignition key and features a handy neck strap. With 8 GB storage capacity it offers ample accommodation for Christmas photos and the like.

The best gift ideas for her.

For anyone heading for faraway places, MINI has the perfect travelling companion. The robust MINI hardshell suitcases from the Rooftop line can take anything you throw at them. The MINI Rooftop Cabin Trolley, for example, represents a stylish and reliable means of carrying your kit. Decked out in either the Union Jack or racing stripes, it has an extending telescopic handle, two strong carry handles and smooth-running wheels. The main compartment is fitted with packing belts and a divider, while the centre section has two small side pockets. Also provided are a protective transportation cover, an integrated lock and a nameplate to help the trolley find its way home should – perish the thought – owner and case become separated.

The design of the extensive Black Jack luggage line from MINI stands out with its classy black finish and tone-in-tone Union Jack motif. The MINI Black Jack Briefcase ensures you have everything you need for a day at the office. It boasts a clever inner compartment system with pockets for a mobile phone, pens and business cards, and your laptop slides away securely into a separate padded compartment. The briefcase can be fixed easily to the trolley’s telescopic handle with the help of the slide-in pocket on its reverse side.

Should the inevitable happen and the long awaited white Christmas fail to materialise, the MINI Countryman Boots will keep your feet dry amid the mud and rain. With their Union Jack motif, rock-style print and Countryman badge, the black unisex wellies make a stylish statement, as well as a fine Christmas gift. The British flag also crops up on the inside of the boots.

Its snug fake fur lining makes the trapper-style MINI Badges Lapeer Hat a good bet for warm ears during the chillier times of year. Badges on the “dog ears” provide the de rigueur vintage look. On warmer days, the ear flaps can be neatly folded up and fixed to the top of the head section.

Fashion meets pop art as ‘Pop Style’ series accessories in contrasting shades – from radiant yellow to electric blue – recall classic Andy Warhol creations. The bright and colourful MINI Pop Style Umbrella opens and closes automatically, and lightens the mood on grey days. The design of the handle takes its cue from the MINI gear selector.

The best gift ideas for the youngsters.

The hot-heeled MINI Snow Rocker toboggan is destined to give both kids and adults hours of sliding fun. Made from robust and ultra-slick material, the Snow Rocker is suitable for all snow conditions. Measuring 66 cm long and weighing just 2,500 grams, the toboggan is easy to steer through slight shifts in weight. A Union Jack print and racing stripes on the seat surface ensure it attracts envious glances on any sledge run.

The MINI Baby Racer brings the hallmark MINI driving fun to fledgling drivers aged 1 to 3. The design of the red push-car combines high levels of safety, impressive quality and an eye for detail – from the MINI style front and rear lights to its modern wheel rim design and the original MINI colour shade Chili Red. The wide plastic wheels ensure a quiet ride, without leaving marks on parquet floors, so budding drivers can set off on their first few laps around the Christmas tree without ado.

Dads will also be tempted to take the blue, single-seat MINI Cooper S Convertible – for car fans aged between 3 and 5 – out for a spin. The sporty pedal-drive system ensures impressive output potential, but for those looking for a more leisurely experience there’s also a motorised version. Special rubber tyres help to minimise “road roar” and ensure stress-free indoor use.

After nine months on tour, you’re crying out for style. So this ultra-soft MINI Baby Rocker Newborn Set of romper suit and bib makes the perfect gift for all MINI rockers aged 6 to 12 months. The neutral grey will suit both boys and girls, and guarantees the littl’uns will make a big impression.

With his MINI collar and black dog shirt, the furry MINI Bulldog Soft Toy will melt the heart of any animal lover. Kids will take the four-legged charmer with the cute nose straight to their hearts, while grown-up MINI fans will surely agree that this dog is not just for Christmas.

The soft and cuddly furry MINI Bulldog Plush Cushion with bulldog design is just what you need to unwind after the Christmas hurly-burly. An endearing bulldog appliqué adorns this otherwise simple and plain coloured chill-out cushion. Bring on Christmas!

MINI rocks sonoro Internet radio

Mini fans get to enjoy their favorite car's badge inside the house with the new MINI Rocks Sonoro Elements W Internet radio. In a cross-promotional design move, Sonoro Audio worked with Mini to develop this special edition of its Elements W Internet radio, showing it off today at the Maison & Objet furniture and design trade show in Paris.

The all new MINI rocks Sonoro Limited Edition Internet Radio comes in an astonishing wood casing and comes coated with exquisite Eclipse Grey metallic exterior lacquerer from MINI along with the original MINI bonnet stripes. This incredible comes with an energy-saving OLED display, that has been provided with light dim controls and thus depicts clear display regardless of day or night. The MINI rocks Sonoro Limited Edition Internet Radio operates on wireless Internet (wifi) or LAN and streams more than 18,000 Webradio stations, thereby enabling the users to select their very own choice of station, depending upon their preference for genre or country. This device has also been given various unique features including, alarm clock, sleep and snooze functions, Radio Frequency remote control and eDock external iPod docking station with charging function, as well the device can be easily connected to an external audio system or a computer via a Line Out cable.

The MINI rocks sonoro Internet radio price is 499.00 EUR and it will go on sale from late September 2010 at MINI Cooper and sonoro dealers.





Press Release

MINI has been working closely with German manufacturer of design audio products sonoro audio. The two brands synonymous with outstanding design and state-of-the-art technology enjoy massive popularity among the post-modern target group. The result of the cooperation is an Internet radio that combines urban chic with a boundless musical experience – a wonder of multi-functionality and a design hit in one. True to the MINI “Creative Use of Space” philosophy the radio packs a host of functions into one very small unit. Whether your favourite sound is New Orleans jazz, Jamaican reggae or Brazilian bossa nova, the "MINI rocks sonoro" limited edition of the "elements W" Internet radio brings original sounds from all over the world directly into your living room, bedroom, office or kitchen. The result is a feast of global music in every corner of your home. The unit also comes with four preset MINI SOUNDS Webradio channels.

Exceptional design

The unique design of the MINI rocks sonoro Internet radio makes it something of a collector’s piece. The distinctive wood casing is finished in the brand new Eclipse Grey metallic exterior lacquerer from MINI, complete with original MINI bonnet stripes. The acrylic front panel features controls in brushed aluminium and the golden, energy-saving OLED display is dimmable and easy to read in daylight or at night. The limited edition Internet radio is a must-have for all design-conscious MINI fans and trendsetters.

A peerless wonder of multi-functionality

The MINI rocks sonoro limited edition of the elements W Internet radio receives over 18,000 Webradio stations via WiFi or LAN. Users can search and select their favourite music easily by genre or country. The design radio also boasts a media player function to stream music libraries direct from a computer and can be connected via line out to an external audio system. The alarm clock, sleep and snooze functions, Radio Frequency remote control and eDock external iPod® docking station with charging function are easy to use and open up exciting new dimensions in an audio lifestyle. The integrated digital equalizer, solid wood casing, bass reflex tube and 3-inch full range speaker ensure a powerful, well-rounded sound.

MINI SOUNDS: Webradio channels from MINI

For all fans of good music, MINI broadcasts on four new Webradio channels. MINI SPACE provides a prime selection of alternative tracks not common in the mainstream. MINI UNITED mixes chart-topping hits with some timeless classics thrown in. MINI INTERNATIONAL offers lounge music from around the world with chillaxing beats to transport you to a calmer place. And MINI CROSS satisfies the musical appetite of hard rock fans everywhere. The four channels come as presets in the MINI rocks sonoro limited edition of the elements W Internet radio. For more information go to www.MINIspace.com/minisounds

Price and availability

The world premiere of the MINI rocks sonoro elements W limited edition Internet radio will take place on 3 September 2010 when it is unveiled to the public at Maison & Objet, the leading trade show for furniture and interior design in Paris. Visitors will be able to experience the streamline design and pioneering technology first hand by visiting sonoro audio in Hall 7, Stand H185 I186.

The limited edition collector’s piece will be available from late September 2010 at selected MINI and sonoro dealers priced at €499.00, incl. VAT.

Most powerful Mini in the world!

On annual «Festival of Speed» that will pass in English Gudvude, to visitors will suggest to admire the most powerful and ridiculous of all Mini, existing in the nature. Simply enough to look at a photo, to understand that people with the hypertrophied sense of humour created this car. On some cars especially cheerful guys already established engines from tank "Centurion" and a fighter "Spitfajr", but here to supply Mini with diesel engine Cummins QSK78 in weight in 11 300 kg anybody did not guess yet. This motor V18 has a working volume in 78 litres, is supplied by twelve turbo compressors, develops capacity in 3500 h.p. (13 770 Nm) and is specially created for installation on the career dump trucks, capable to transport cargoes in weight to 360 tons.

Founders of this grotesque do not inform, whether their child independently is capable to move or is made only for public relations. However, they will absolutely achieve the purpose – this car will not be deprived by attention. 78-litre Mini. Sounds?

2011 Mini Countryman Getaway package

MINI releases today the new Countryman Getaway Package, the company has come up with a couple of accessories for it which really suit the Countryman lifestyle.

It includes fold-up seats, a multifunctional blanket/cover, boots, a jacket, and more for your rural jaunts. And since storage space is always at a premium—especially in a Mini—the kit can be stowed away entirely within the Countryman’s under-floor storage compartment.

Prices :
MINI Countryman Seat Set (two seats + table top) - €89.00; MINI Countryman Single Seat - €35.00; MINI Countryman Boots - €39.00; MINI Countryman Tee - €29.00; MINI Five-In-One Cover - €65.00; MINI Parka - €139.00.




Press Release

The MINI Getaway Package: for spontaneous stop-offs along the way. Cleverly packed travel set accompanies the launch of the new MINI Countryman.

Munich. We've all had one of those days when you're out in the car, the sun shining, and your thoughts turn to finding a nice rural spot for an impromptu breather. If only you'd packed the right equipment for the job in hand. Luckily, MINI is pitching in to help out. The cult British brand has come up with a handy set of items for off-the-cuff mid-journey breaks – just in time for the market launch of the MINI Countryman. The clever MINI Countryman Getaway Package can be stowed away in the new crossover model's dual-layer load compartment floor, which is separated from the regular storage space by a lid. This allows the travel set to be in place and ready for use at all times without making in-roads into interior space.

The set includes the MINI Countryman Seats, two comfortable folding wooden chairs in characteristic MINI design. Their durable canvas surface comes in an easy Racing Check or stylised Union Jack look, both in dark grey against a black background. Roomy outside pockets can be attached to the sides of the Countryman Seats using press studs, while a carry bag makes the chairs easy to transport. The MINI Countryman Seats can also be converted into tables with the help of a wooden board. Now nothing can get in the way of a picnic in the great outdoors. And, as it happens, the convertible seats also do an excellent job inside. The MINI Countryman Seats are available as a set consisting of two chairs and a table top. Extra seats can be purchased individually should your random excursions grow in popularity.

An essential feature of the Getaway Package is the MINI Five-In-One Cover. This multifunctional cover in Chequered Flag design is a poncho, sleeping bag, awning, picnic blanket and bed cover in one, and makes the ideal accessory for those more extended stops during a journey. The loops and ties on the four corners help to make the most of the cover's various functions, and the bag for the cover doubles up as a handy cushion.

The new MINI Countryman Boots, meanwhile, ensure that your feet stay dry on cross-country hikes. With their Union Jack/Rockstyle Print/Countryman design, the black unisex Wellington boots cut a seriously cool figure. The British flag also makes an appearance in the inside pattern of the boots.

The MINI Parka, a contemporary interpretation of the classic M51 Fishtail, also protects against the vagaries of the weather. The olive-green unisex hooded jacket embodies a stylish Mod look, complemented by a selection of neat patches which can be attached on the left sleeve using a Velcro-type fastener.

The Getaway Package also contains a change of shirt, should fresh togs be required. The limited-edition MINI Countryman Tee suits MINI down to the ground and adds a touch of fashionable chic with its funky gift packaging for him or her, catchy shade of lilac and print of the new MINI model.

Spur-of-the-moment picnic or brief saunter into the countryside, the MINI Countryman Getaway Package ensures you are ready for anything. The set will be available from the launch of the new MINI model in September 2010. Customers will be able to order the Getaway Package – as well as the other MINI Collection items – from the MINI Online Shop at www.MINI.de/shop and at selected MINI dealers.

MINI Countryman Getaway Package

MINI Countryman Seat Set - €89.00
(two seats + table top)
MINI Countryman Single Seat - €35.00
MINI Countryman Boots - €39.00
MINI Countryman Tee - €29.00
MINI Five-In-One Cover - €65.00
MINI Parka - €139.00

Paris 2008: Mini crossover

Mini showed a prototype of crossover in retro-style! It's beautiful!