Üstte; 1959 Morris Mini Minor ve 2001 Mini Cooper

Mini, bugün Rocketman adlı konseptini tanıttı. Araç karbon fiber şasiye sahip. Aynı şasi sisteminin BMW’nin dün lanse ettiği i serisinin ilk modellerinden birisi olacak olan i3′te de kullanılma ihtimali yüksek. BMW gibi gruplar, geliştirdikleri yeni teknolojileri alt markalarına çok güzel yayabiliyorlar ve Mini de BMW’nin tüm bu inovasyonlarından nasibini alacak.

Üstte, soldan sağa; 2010 Mini Cooper, 2009 Mini Cooper Cabrio, 2009 Mini Clubman, 2010 Mini Countryman

Mini’nin 2000′lerde yeniden doğuşu, eski ufak halk aracı Mini olarak değil de, biraz daha yüksek seviyede pazarlanabilir (upmarket) bir konumlandırmayla süpermini denilen segmenti de ortaya çıkarak gerçekleşmişti. Mini’nin relansmanından bu yana neredeyse 10 yıl geçti ve marka, Cabrio, Clubman, Countryman ile ürün gamını ve kasa tiplerini iyice çeşitlendirdi. Yakında lanse edilecek Coupé, Roadster ve Paceman modelleri de Mini ailesini tamamlayacak.

Üstte; Mini Coupé Concept ve Mini Paceman Concept

Tüm bunlar olurken Mini, kendini Urban Mobility dediğimiz, kent-ulaşımı konusunda tamınlamış bir marka olarak gittikçe büyüyen modellerine rağmen bu alanı da boş bırakmak istemiyor. Mini Scooter E konsepti, elektrikli bir mobilet/mopet tasarımı olarak Mini’nin ne kadar cesur olabileceğinin bir kanıtıydı. Şimdi ise, asıl beklenen gelişme gerçekleşti: Mini, gerçekten de çok küçük ve büyük ihtimalle de çok hafif bir şehir içi ulaşım aracı tasarladı: Mini Rocketman Concept.

Rocketman’in bir çok önemli özelliği var. Öncelikle Mini’nin 10 yıldır eskimiş modern-retro çizgilerinin yakında yenilenecek Mini Cooper serisinde ne şekilde güncelleneceğinin işaretlerini veriyor. Retro çizgiler daha da modernleşecek ve Mini’nin tasarım DNA’sı yuvarlak objelerle,  krom çerçevelerle aktarılacak sonraki nesillere büyük ihtimalle.

Rocketman’in başka bir önemi de, BMW i3′le benzer şekilde bir karbon fiber şasi kullanacak olması. Halen daha süper spor otomobiller deryasında görmeye alışık olduğumuz pahalı karbon fiber malzemesi, hafifliği ve dayanıklılığı ile eşi bulunmaz bir nimetken, onarımının güçlüğü (hatta mümkün olmayışı diyebiliriz), üretiminin pahalılığı yüzünden güncel otomobillerde kullanılamıyordu. Artık her firmanın ya bir üniversite bölümüyle, ya da bir karbon fiber üretici şirketle direkt ilişkiye geçerek gittikçe ucuzlayan bu teknolojiyi orta sınıf, hatta giriş sınıfı araçlara yerleştirmeye başladıkları bir döneme giriyoruz.

Otomobiller son 30 yılda inanılmaz ağırlaştı. Örnek olarak, 30 yıl önceki 1.6 motorlu bir Toyota Corolla ‘nın sadece 880 kg ağırlığında olduğunu, güncel 1.6 Toyota Corolla’nın ise, 1.273 kg olduğunu düşününce, bu daha iyi anlaşılabiliyor. Araçlar güvenlik standartları ağırlaştıkça mecburen ağırlaşıyor. Buna karşılık sürekli daha güçlü motorlarla bu ağırlık/güç konusu dengelenebiliyordu ama yakıt tüketimi ve karbondioksit emisyonları da regülasyonlarla kontrol altına alınmaya başlanınca mühendisler yeniden konunun özüne döndüler: ağırlığı düşürmeye.

Karbon fiber şasi teknolojisini kullanan bir küçük kent otomobili, gerçekten çok ufak ve hafif bir motorla çok az yakıt tüketerek yeterli performansı rahat rahat verebilir. Motor iyice küçülebileceği için araçta denge ve hacim konusu da daha kolay çözümlenir. Böylece yıllardır hayatımıza giremeyen kent otomobilleri belki bu şekilde daha kullanışlı modellerle bize cazip görünmeye başlar.

Konseptle ilgili detaylı bilgiler burada:
http://www.minispace.com/en_us/article/minirocketmanconcept/503/?eid=503

Eski Mini görselleri Wikimedia Commons‘tan alındı.

Basın Bülteni / Press Release

DRIVING FUN IN A NEW DIMENSION: THE MINI ROCKETMAN CONCEPT.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – February 22, 2011 –– The creation of innovative concepts for urban mobility has seen MINI grow into the successful brand we know today. A constant stream of new ideas from its beginnings more than 50 years ago to the present day have ensured that driving fun has continued to grow even though space on our roads has become ever tighter. Underpinning this success has been the creative use of space, a principle that enters new territory with the MINI Rocketman Concept. The study car, which will be revealed to the public worldwide for the first time at the International Geneva Motor Show (3 – 13 March 2011), harks back to the classic Mini in terms of its exterior dimensions, while its technology points to the future of automotive design. A 3+1-seater with three doors and a length of just over three meters (approx. 10 ft.), the MINI Rocketman Concept responds to the fundamental requirements of mobile lifestyles in the big cities of the future by pooling the brand’s core values in concentrated form. Ingenious functionality, smile-inducing agility, exceptional efficiency and irresistible design come together into an extraordinarily attractive and groundbreaking, yet typically MINI, subcompact car concept for the premium segment.

Displaying both an awareness of tradition, and talent for innovation, the MINI design team developed the vision of a car that takes up impressively little space on the road but boasts an enviably spacious interior. The MINI Rocketman Concept therefore carries over the classic virtues of the brand into a groundbreaking vehicle concept. It offers a fresh interpretation of unmistakable MINI design features, and uses cutting edge construction and manufacturing technology to create unique solutions in body and interior design.

The innovative character of the study is defined by the systematic application of lightweight design principles and a pure-bred interior geared to maximum driving fun and unbeatable variability. A carbon spaceframe construction, whose striking surface structure is visible at the front end of the car, around its doors and in the interior, forms the basis for a weight-minimizing construction. Indeed, the MINI Rocketman Concept offers the ideal platform for achieving outstanding efficiency. To this end, it is designed to allow the integration of a drive system which combines further enhanced sprinting ability with average fuel consumption of just three liters per 100 kilometers (94 mpg imp).

Wide-opening doors with double-hinge joints and integrated sills facilitate entry into the MINI Rocketman Concept. The lightweight seats are contoured in customary MINI style and can be arranged in a variety of different positions. This allows owners to choose between maximum driving fun two-up, a comfortable amount of room for three occupants, or even an exceptionally efficient division of space accommodating four seats.

The capacity of the luggage compartment can be adapted to passenger requirements just as flexibly. The two-part tailgate consists of one section which is attached to the roof and opens extremely high, and a lower section which extends out of the body in the form of a drawer.

The operating logic of the MINI Rocketman Concept is also geared to the multi-layered demands of a contemporary target group, whose mobility needs are shaped by their desire for driving fun, flexible usage possibilities and extensive connectivity with their lives outside the car. The central control unit can be taken out of the car and configured on a computer before the journey begins to update navigation destinations, the music playlist or contact details for mo-bile communications.

Body design: hallmark MINI design language in particularly concentrated form.

The MINI Rocketman Concept body is shaped by an avant-garde interpretation of time-honored brand features. Innovative construction techniques allow the principle used in the classic Mini – of providing the maximum amount of room on the smallest possible footprint – to be carried over to the mobility challenges of urban areas in the 21st century. The MINI Rocketman Concept measures 3.419 meters (approx. 11 ft. 3 in.) in length, adding just a few extra centimeters to the front and rear of the brand’s founding father born in 1959. The new study is 1.907 meters (approx. 6 ft. 3 in.) wide, including the exterior mirrors, and stands 1.398 meters (approx. 4 ft. 7 in) tall. Its proportions also display clear symmetries with both the classic Mini and the brand’s present-day lineup. The brand’s familiar appearance is therefore concentrated into a new set of dimensions, with the concept for a new vehicle segment remaining unmistakably recognizable as a MINI.

The interpretation of the characteristic MINI design language chosen for the study car also exudes a powerful and dynamic allure. Tightly contoured surfaces, large wheels and a basic form dictated by straight lines help give the MINI Rocketman Concept a resoundingly solid structure. In addition to its tell-tale proportions, a sprinkling of distinctive design features ensure that its brand affiliation is immediately clear. Large, circular headlights and a radiator grille with chrome surround dominate the front end. While the exterior contours of the headlights fit the familiar visual template, their inner structure has been further developed for the new study. The centrally positioned LED units generating full beam are bordered by an eye-catching light ring for dipped-beam mode. Direction indicators integrated into the headlight units are a feature shared with the current range of series-produced MINI models.

The dimensions of the headlights reflect those of the current MINI, which means they come across as particularly large when set against the smaller face of the study car. As stand-out features of MINI design they symbolize the core values of the brand, which remain reassuringly intact in the new vehicle concept represented by the study. In the area surrounding the headlights and around the front apron and radiator grille, sections of the carbon spaceframe are visible alongside the painted and chromed surfaces. Its striking surface structure serves as a reminder of the study’s innovative construction blueprint.

Powerful silhouette, innovative door concept.

Large wheels and the three-level structural split of body, “wraparound” greenhouse and roof resting on top give the flanks the same appearance as the MINI models already in series production. The windows taper as they extend back towards the rear, emphasizing the body’s dynamic wedge shape and offering an immediate hint of the vehicle’s sporty and agile character. The high waist-line, accentuated on the MINI by a chrome frame ringing the vehicle, takes the form of a light strip on the MINI Rocketman Concept and throws the study’s powerful silhouette into even sharper focus.

The study’s 18-inch wheels likewise leave no doubt that the sure-footed road-holding and sporty handling properties of a MINI can also play a key role in a car with smaller dimensions. The weight-saving wheels specially developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept have an aerodynamically highly effective, enclosed surface structure. And the carbon wing contour of the directional wheels also helps to reduce drag. An aluminum trim strip on the wheel rim adds an attractive stylistic touch.

Among the car’s key design and functionality related innovations are the two side doors. Their length and the specially designed arrangement of the door sills allow extremely comfortable access to all the seats in the MINI Rocketman Concept. When opened, the doors pivot outwards complete with their sills, enabling the driver and front passenger to climb in right next to their seats and get settled in comfort. Entry to the rear seats is also made much easier by the car’s unusual door concept. The carbon spaceframe construction, together with the impressively high torsional stiffness of the under-body structure, allows the arrangement of the side sills to be combined with extremely high body rigidity.

In addition, an extremely sophisticated opening mechanism ensures easy access into the car, even in tight parking spaces. The front-hinged doors have a double-hinge joint, which also allows a large opening angle when space is restricted. The innovative character of this construction element is also evident when the doors are closed, the carbon hinges standing out visibly in form and color from the rest of the body. The MINI Rocketman Concept thus takes a stylistic cue from the classic Mini, whose exterior-mounted door hinges also went on to become an identifying characteristic. Projector-style rear lights, transparent and illuminated glass for the roof.

The rear lights of the MINI Rocketman Concept have a trapezoidal stirrup design – into which all the light functions are integrated – and work using projector technology. The lamp assembly projects the rear and braking light and the light for the direction indicators onto the car body. The high-output LED units used for the lights ensure that even this indirect illumination concept produces the accustomed intensity of light that is necessary for safety.

The roof of the MINI Rocketman Concept also puts on an extraordinary light show. The full-surface glass roof is segmented by illuminated braces to recreate the look of Britain’s Union Jack flag. When not illuminated, the longitudinal, horizontal and diagonal braces glow a bright Porcelain White. In darkness the integrated optical fibers give the interior of the MINI Rocketman Concept a pleasantly indirect illumination and, as a result, a more effective nocturnal appearance.

The bright color of the roof and mirror caps – likewise painted Porcelain White – create an attractive contrast to the Bermuda (a warm shade of grey) of the body. The areas of carbon visible at the front end and around the doors add further striking touches.

Split tailgate with drawer and integrated rear cargo carrier.

The MINI Rocketman Concept also uses creative design and innovative technical solutions to open up new layout options for the luggage area. This enhances the versatility of the existing space and means it can be used more efficiently. The split two-part tailgate consists of one section which is attached to the roof and opens extremely high and a lower section which extends out 350 millimeters from the body in the form of a drawer unit. The drawer represents the further development of the downward-opening tailgate seen on the classic Mini. This construction principle allows room to be made for pieces of luggage and travel items even when the car is carrying four occupants. The MINI Rocketman Concept literally grows as a vehicle when it’s time to start loading up the gear.

An intelligent folding mechanism makes it possible to lock the cargo drawer of the MINI Rocketman Concept either higher up or further in towards the passenger compartment, as the loading scenario demands. This allows loads to be transported out of sight and protected from the weather. If required, items can also be loaded through into the passenger compartment. In addition, the open-top cargo drawer can also serve as a rear luggage carrier. Here, purpose-built inserts make it easier to transport snowboards and other bulky items of sports equipment. Added to which, the glass tailgate, which extends well into the roof, helps to enhance loading flexibility. It is connected with the body via a centrally positioned hinge with integrated gas strut system, which also allows it to be opened when the rear carrier is loaded with gear.

Seat concept: the ideal position for every mobility requirement.

The arrangement of the seats and control elements in the passenger compartment of the MINI Rocketman Concept ensures maximum versatility for the widest possible range of mobility needs. The low-weight seats, which are traditional MINI in form, offer a high level of comfort and optimum lateral support even for sporty drivers. The amount of space for the driver and passengers can be varied as required. Three individual seats slide fore and aft, allowing a high level of comfort with generous head, leg and shoulder room. There is also an additional seat in the rear, whose backrest can be folded down fully to serve as a stowage surface.

Three mobility scenarios have been developed to define the real-life usage possibilities offered by the interior of the study. In a layout designed specially to enhance a sporting driving experience, the MINI Rocketman Concept offers just the right amount of space for the driver and front passenger. The front seats are pushed back as far as possible and the instrument cluster also slides fore and aft to provide the ideal position for a full-blooded driving experience.

If an additional passenger joins the two already on board, the front passenger can move his seat forward again to take a position slightly further forward than the driver. In this configuration, the front passenger’s legroom is reduced to standard MINI levels to accommodate an equally generously sized rear seat behind him. The MINI Rocketman Concept also offers a practical solution for travelling with four people. Once the driver has returned both his seat and the instrument cluster to the standard position, a second rear seat allows a fourth person to climb aboard for shorter journeys, at least.

Innovative mix of materials, hallmark MINI design.

The impressive variability of the interior is complemented by a pure-bred design which spotlights both the unmistakable style of the brand and the study car’s pioneering technology. The intention behind the selection of materials and interior trim structure was to create a feeling of contemporary functionality and lightness. To this end, the carbon structure of the body frame has been left exposed in the footwells and around the center console.

A fresh interpretation of customary MINI design features emphasizes the further development of the brand’s characteristic design language inside the study car as well. The door panels house the door pulls and the stowage compartments, which feature trim elements whose elliptical form reaches past the B-pillar into the rear compartment. The surface design offers a stylistic nod to the variable division of space and shared driving experience provided by the MINI Rocketman Concept interior.

Inside the car, leather covers and high-gloss painted surfaces combine with armrests and trim strips made from a special paper that has been pressed and folded into the desired structure. The trim strips are backlit by LED-powered fiber optics. Plus, a light strip that wraps around the interior at waistline height generates a particularly harmonious ambience.

Innovative operating concept: trackball on the steering wheel, 3D-effect graphics in the Center Speedo.

An operating concept developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept brings together principles from the MINI design handbook, innovative new functions and a pioneering operating system to serve up even greater driving fun over both short and long journeys. A cockpit instrument, positioned above the steering wheel and therefore directly in the driver’s field of view, houses the rev counter and on-board computer display. The large-format Center Speedo with peripheral speedometer and multifunctional color display also adheres to the system logic familiar from the current range of series-produced MINI cars as far as display arrangement is concerned. The development of the rigorously applied display/control element separation principle, meanwhile, has been taken to the next level.

In addition to multifunction buttons on the steering wheel, the current MINI also has a joystick on the center console for operating vehicle-related, navigation, entertainment and communications functions. By contrast, the MINI Rocketman Concept concentrates all the control elements on the steering wheel. This reflects an ongoing commitment to the concept of simple and intuitive operation, and means that the driver can operate more functions than ever while keeping both hands on the steering wheel at all times.

A press of the thumb on the relevant multifunction buttons on the left-hand steering wheel spoke is all that is required to use front-line controls such as the volume for the audio system and the call pick-up function for incoming telephone calls. In addition, a trackball is integrated into the right-hand steering wheel spoke. Inspired by computer operating, this element allows the driver to control an impressively wide range of processes. For example, to navigate through the menu levels the driver turns the trackball horizontally, while vertical movements allow him to scroll up and down lists. The driver then selects the desired function with a press of the trackball. With selected functions such as in-car internet, the driver uses his thumb to move the cursor around the display in any direction.

The graphics in the color display of the Center Speedo are more diverse, higher quality and sharper than ever. High-resolution 3-D graphics open up new possibilities in the need-based selection of functions using the trackball and display. According to the driver’s preference and the driving situation, particularly relevant displays and alerts are moved into the foreground, while the remaining status displays remain visible on a display level further back. This makes it significantly easier to move quickly and intuitively between the navigation map display, music program selection and telephone contacts list.

Flawless connectivity and new ways of personalizing the car configuration.

The navigation, communications and entertainment systems in the MINI Rocketman Concept represent the consistent further development of the functions already available through MINI Connected in current series-produced MINI cars. Intelligent connectivity turns the car into a mobile element of the driver’s personal lifestyle. Internet-based services for communications, integrated navigation and an almost limitlessly expandable entertainment program play a key role in maximizing driving fun, comfort and safety. With the control elements developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept, personalized usage of these functions reaches a new level.

The removable control unit (for comfort and connectivity functions) integrated into the Center Speedo can be configured on a computer before the start of a journey, enabling the driver to transfer new music files, a navigation destination and contact details for mobile communications and internet usage into the vehicle with maximum convenience.

These innovative control systems allow driving fun in a MINI to become an integrated component of the driver’s personal lifestyle more than ever. Indeed, information, images, data, contacts and media can be made available in digital form for mobile usage anywhere – at home, at the workplace or while on the move.

The mobile control unit stores telephone numbers and email contacts, as well as navigation data, internet addresses and full websites or messages from online social networks, music files, photos and videos. This provides a direct route into the MINI for additional sources of driving fun in the shape of new destinations, important contacts, up-to-date information, exciting sounds and powerful images. This extended connectivity can also enrich everyday life outside the car; for example, new contact details from telephone calls or online connections can also be made available outside the car via the MINI Rocketman Concept.

MINI Rocketman Concept: compact dimensions, new format, the usual driving fun.

The MINI Rocketman Concept once again brings the traditional principles of the classic Mini onto the road through the introduction of innovative ideas. The creativity of the MINI design team enables them to transfer fundamental MINI features and values into a groundbreaking new vehicle concept in untarnished form. As a vision of the urban mobility of tomorrow, the MINI Rocketman Concept captures the imagination with its unflappable charisma, surprising variability, and lifestyle-oriented functionality, and provides the ideal platform for agile and efficient driving characteristics.

While the study showcases a new format, MINI still remains true to its heritage. More than 50 years ago the brand’s first car triggered a revolution in the small car segment. The classic Mini met the needs of urban mobility more comprehensively than any other vehicle before it, while at the same time offering the driving fun and individual style that sealed its legendary status. Today MINI continues to fulfill – in its own unique way – the desires of demanding target groups with a sense for the creative use of space, inspiring handling and premium quality. The MINI Rocketman Concept offers a glimpse of how these features may look in the future. Using innovative technology and creative solutions, the study reflects the brand’s unsurpassed expertise in the development of vehicle concepts producing maximum interior versatility within minimal exterior dimensions – and all while delivering unbeatable driving fun.

Mini Cooper S ve Porsche 911 karşılaştırması yapan afişlerle desteklenen bu meydan okumanın daveti NY Times’da da tam sayfa bir ilanla duyuruldu. Facebook sayfasında meydan okuma ile ilgili bilgileri bulabilirsiniz, yarış gerçekleşecek olsaydı da bu sayfadan yayınlanacaktı.

Önce Porsche tarafından meydan okumaya olumlu yanıt geleceğine dair dedikodular geldi, ancak son nokta bir basın açıklamasıyla koyuldu: Porsche’nin bu tip oyunlarla işi yok. Basın açıklamasının tamamı aşağıda. Bu arada Porsche, açıklamasında bir reklam filmine de gönderme yaparak Mini’ye “hadi işine bak sen çocuğum” muamelesi çekmeyi ihmal etmemiş.

Bu arada küçük markaların çok daha prestijli otomobil markaları üzerinden prim yapmayı denemeleri açısından Mini örneği bir ilk değil. ABD’de Ford Fiesta, manevra kabiliyetini bir Lamborghini Gallardo ile karşılaştırarak sunduğu bir video hazırlamıştı daha önce.

Porsche’nin basın açıklamasının tamamı:

Dear Jim,

Imagine our surprise to discover our former employee, now the head of Mini, has challenged us to a head-to-head race. As you surely know, Porsche has a long history of racing success, with more than 28,000 wins over the last 60 years. In our early days, we pitted ourselves against the giants, so we’ve been in your shoes.

But as you also know, Porsche doesn’t race for fame, stunts or publicity. We race to challenge ourselves; we race to push sports car technology; we race to translate every win on the track to our cars on the road. If you need a reminder of our intent, please take a look at this short video: http://tinyurl.com/37xdjqx

While your challenge seems like a fun and lighthearted campaign, we’ll stick to racing the way we have over the decades. We welcome you at Sebring, Le Mans, Daytona or any other sanctioned race where there is more at stake than T-shirts and valet parking spaces. We also invite you to any of the thousands of tracks around the world where Porsche owners compete each weekend.

Good luck with your race at Road Atlanta on June 21; we hope you enjoy the day.

Sincerely,

Detlev Von Platen President and CEO, Porsche Cars North America

Mini Countryman, önden ve yandan oldukça yakışıklı görünen, ancak kapılarını açınca büyünün bir miktar bozulduğu bir otomobil. Mini’nin ikonik formunu hem korumak, hem de yeni görünecek bir model yaratmak, Mini tasarımcıları için bela bir iş olsa gerek. Countryman’de dış tasarımda -eğer Mini’yi beğeniyorsanız- kusur bulunabilecek bir alan yok. Araç gerçekten de çok ufak olmasına rağmen garip bir şekilde aynı zamanda yüksek ve hacimli görünüyor.

Countryman’in içine girildiğinde dışında yarattığı büyü aynı şekilde devam edemiyor ne yazık ki. Bunda benim kişisel yaklaşımımın da ön planda olduğunu hatırlatmak isterim; ben Mini’nin iç tasarımını hep fazla çocukça bulmuşumdur. Countryman’de de eğlenceli yerine dandik diyebileceğim bir kabin içi buldum. Aracın 2+2 formu, arka koltukların arasından geçen metal ray ve onun üzerindeki modüler kaplar yaratıcı görünmekle birlikte, 1980′lerin küçük otomobillerinin iç mekan kalitesini de hatırlattı bana.

Eğer dışında yarattığı güçlü ve yetişkin duyguyu içerde de verebilseydi, fiyatına bakmaksızın Mini Countryman için fuarın kazananlarından birisi diyebilirdim. bu haliyle sadece bakması zevkli bir araç olmuş.

Basın Bülteni / Press Release

The MINI Countryman: brand new options – but still a typical MINI all the way.

Once again the MINI brand is presenting its unusual potential through a completely new vehicle concept. Offering even more space than before, featuring an elevated seating position and additional ground clearance as well as ALL4 all-wheel drive, the MINI Countryman introduces brand-new opportunities to enjoy the driving pleasure so typical of the MINI brand.
In its design and driving behaviour, the new MINI Countryman is clearly recognisable at first sight as a genuine MINI. Right from the start, the car stands out through its unique look – it is powerful, robust and versatile in all its features and appearance. Various design elements and proportions typical of the brand also stand out from the very beginning, enabling the fourth model in the MINI range to bridge the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle.
The MINI Countryman clearly demonstrates its provenance from the very beginning through its driving qualities. Like all models within the brand, it offers the most agile handling in its segment. Highly sophisticated suspension technology and electromechanical steering both precise and efficient guarantee that characteristic go-kart feeling further enhanced to a new level through the elevated seating position and optional ALL4 all-wheel drive. Active safety of the highest calibre is guaranteed also by DSC Dynamic Stability Control naturally featured as standard.
The MINI Countryman is available from the start with a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines. The range of petrol engines extends from the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One Countryman through the 90 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper Countryman all the way to the 135 kW/184 hp
MINI Cooper S Countryman boasting the most efficient power unit worldwide in its four-cylinder 1.6-litre class. The two diesel models are the 82 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper D Countryman and the 66 kW/90 hp MINI One D Countryman.

ALL4 all-wheel drive is available in both the MINI Cooper S Countryman and the MINI Cooper D Countryman. And last but not least in this context, all models naturally comply with the EU5 emission standard in Europe and ULEV II in the USA.

One of the standard features of the MINI Countryman is the innovative Center Rail storage and fastening system. Body paintwork and interior colours created exclusively for the new model, a large range of upholstery variants, decorative trim, high-end audio and navigation systems as well as numerous features specific to the new model offer the connoisseur and aficionado a wide range of options in configuring the MINI Countryman to his personal style in a unique manner again typical of the brand.

Alfa Romeo, C segmentinde 147′nin yerini alacak olan Giulietta‘yı tanıtacak. 2010 yılının Alfa Romeo’nun 100. yılı olması nedeniyle Bertone’nin Alfa Romeo 8c Competizione modeli üzerinde geliştirdiği Pandion adlı konsepti ve Pininfarina’nın güncel Spider modeli üzerinden geliştirdiği bir Alfa Romeo Spider konsepti de fuarda sergilenecek.

Aston Martin, hala şaka olduğuna inanmak istediğim Cygnet adlı minik otomobilinin üretim modelini tanıtacak. Cygnet aslında Toyota iQ’nun, Dr. 90210 programındakilere benzer bir kozmetik operayonla Aston Martin suratı çakılmış hali.

Audi standının bombası A1 olacak. A1 dışında, yeni A8 sedan ve RS5 coupe de ilk defa sergilenen otomobiller olacak. Büyük bir olasılık da Audi’nin E-tron adlı elektrikli konsept spor aracının yine sergilenmesi olacak. Sergilenen son E-tron konseptinin Audi’nin 2012 ‘de lanse edeceği arkadan itişli küçük spor modeli R4′ün bir prototipi olduğu görüşünü dikkate alınca bu araç da standın önemli otomobillerinden olacak.

Bentley’de Continental Supersports Covertible, BMW’de yeni 5 serisi sedanı inceleme fırsatı bulacağız.

Büyük lansmanlardan birisi de Citroen’in yeni C3 bazı üzerinden ürettiği DS3 Racing konsepti ve DS4 adını alması beklenen DS High Rider konsepti olacak. Honda CR-Z, Fiat 500 TwinAir, Ford C-MAx ve Grand C-Max, fuarda görülebilecek başka yeni modeller.

Nissan Juke ve Mini Counrtyman gibi küçük SUV‘ler de göreceğiz fuarda, hatta Dacia Duster gibi düşük fiyatlı küçük crossoverlar da. Ayrıca Porsche, para basan modeli Cayenne’in de yeni versiyonunu tanıtacak ilk defa. Mercedes-Benz’in F800 konsepti de fuarın en ilginç konseptlerinden olacak. Bunun dışında Peugeot ve Renault’da da yeni modeller, Toyota’da yeni Auris hybrid ve FT-86 konsepti, yeni RAV4; VW’de de tamamen yenilenmiş Touareg modeli görülebilecek.

Martta Cenevre Fuarı’nda lansmanı yapılacak olan ve Eylül 2008′de haberini yaptığım Mini’nin crossover modeli Countryman’in resmi görselleri internete sızdı. Araç konseptinden daha iyi görünüyor. Bu aracın dünya ralli şampiyonasına da katılacağı dedikoduları yapılıyor.

Bu da yeni MINI Countryman’in, otomotiv sektöründe modellerin lansman öncesinde detaylarını saklamak için icat edilen kamuflaj folyosuyla dalga geçen reklam videosu:

Geçtiğimiz hafta sonu Renault, ajansı Proximity’nin organizasyonuyla bir grup blog yazarını alarak fabrikasına götürdü. Fluence Bir Blog Olsa adlı küçük bir çalıştay yaparak gezi sonunda Selçuk Erdem, Erdil Yaşaroğlu ve Kaan Sezyum gibi ünlü mizahçılara çevrimdışı blog taslakları yaptırmışlar. Gezi katılımcılarının ve seçilen ünlülerinin Fluence modelinin hedef kitlesi için uygun olduğuna emin olmasam da markayı ve ajansı düzenledikleri ilginç ve cesur proje için tebrik etmek isterim. Tabii beni davet etmediklerini de ekleyeyim (Tofaş çalışanı olarak Renault fabrikasına gidemeyeceğimi öngörmüş olmalılar).

Hiç fabrika ve üretim görmemiş otomobil meraklıları için güncel bazı otomobil modellerinin üretim görüntülerini derledim. Montaj hattı üzerinde ilerleyen şasileri ve kaportaları keyifle izleyiniz.

BMW X1

Fiat 500

Audi Q5

Porsche Panamera

Mini

Frankfurt Otomobil Fuarı yaklaştıkça yeni model ve konsept duyuruları da çoğalıyor. 26 Ağustos Mini’nin doğumgünü. Bu yıl 50. yılına basan Mini, doğumgününde yeni bir kasasını, daha doğrusu yeni bir kasa tipinin konseptini duyurarak sürpriz yaptı. Tıpkı Mini Crossover Concept gibi bu coupé’nin de üretime geçme ihtimali bir hayli yüksek görünüyor. Özellikle konseptte abartılı parçalar ve aksesuarlar yerine bir çok orijinal Mini parçasının aynen kullanılması, bu ihtimali güçlendiren detaylardan birisi.

Mini’nin arka koltuklardan kurtulması bir başka dedikodu sebebi olan 2 kişilik Speedster modelinin de gelmekte olduğuna bir işaret olabilir. Alışılmış Mini silüetinden uzaklaşılsa da Mini’nin gerçek bir sağmal inek olarak farklı kasa tipleriyle de başarı yakalayacağını düşünüyorum. Clubman, Crossman (Crossover’ın adının bu olacağı da söyleniyor), Coupé, Speedster derken MPV, van, sedan gibi alternatifler de önümüzdeki yıllarda karşımıza çıkabilir. Şimdi düşündüm de, Mini Sedan (adı Saloon falan olur herhalde) üretilirse gerçekten çok eğlenceli bir gün olur otomotiv dünyası için.

Araç bence heyecan verici olmuş. Mini gibi oldukça standart bir görünüm ve form üzerinde inşa edilmiş bir aracı facelift denilen makyajdan geçirmek bile zorken nasıl yenileyeceklerini düşünür dururdum hep. Anlaşılan orijinal Mini hep aynı kalacak ama sürekli yeni modeller evrimleşecek bu form üzerinden. Fotoğraf galerisi için Autoblog‘u ziyaret edebilirsiniz.

Basın Bülteni:

PRESS RELEASE

Concentrated Driving Pleasure: The MINI Coupé Concept.

MINI is celebrating a great birthday: Exactly fifty years ago, on 26 August 1959, the classic Mini was presented to the public for the first time, a unique story of success starting out and today giving MINI the perfect opportunity to look ahead without losing sight of the brand’s great tradition.

The MINI Coupé Concept is an expression of MINI design and the great ability of the brand’s designers to fill the elementary values of the brand with new life, using the options of modern drivetrain and suspension technology, and developing fascinating perspectives for the future of the brand on this basis.

Presenting the concept of an uncompromisingly sporting two-seater to be seen for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show (17–27 September 2009), MINI is unveiling an unusually attractive vision of how the model family may well develop in future. The source of inspiration is once again the fundamental motive so characteristic of every MINI: driving pleasure. The MINI Coupé Concept therefore represents the ideal of a car destined in every respect to offer a thrilling experience and make every journey a truly unique thrill.

The MINI Coupé Concept brings together a wide range of features for a truly sporting and ambitious style of motoring. Limited to two seats and following a philosophy of consistent lightweight construction, the car clearly meets all the requirements made of a particularly active and dynamic coupé. Compact dimensions, perfect axle load distribution and a low centre of gravity offer ideal conditions for enhancing the agility typical of MINI to a level never seen before.

Through its design alone, the MINI Coupé Concept brings out all the thrill of individual mobility and the focus on pure driving pleasure. Powerful proportions and dynamic design language evoke a sense of desire and strong appeal, the MINI Coupé Concept offering a particularly undiluted expression of the brand through its sporting and unconventional stance on the road.

The MINI Coupé Concept: an invitation to enjoy spontaneous mobility.

With the growing model portfolio, the popularity of the MINI brand has also grown consistently in recent years. The MINI has moved beyond the restraints of urban mobility, opening up additional options and winning over new target groups. And MINI allows you to enjoy spontaneous mobility, sporting and agile handling and unmistakable style on virtually every occasion.

The current models in the range already meet the most varied demands. As individual characters in their own right, the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible all offer a unique rendition of the driving experience so typical of the brand. And now the MINI Coupé Concept brings out driving pleasure in its most concentrated form, extreme lightweight technology making this two-seater particularly agile and unusually efficient. At the same time the low roofline, the precisely defined spoiler edge at the rear and other aerodynamic features enhance the car’s performance to an even higher standard. So that in its design and in the use of high-performance drivetrain technology, the MINI Coupé Concept offers ideal conditions as a compact sports car in the premium segment.

This two-seater is designed to accommodate even the most powerful engine currently available in the MINI – and with the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged power unit carried over from the MINI John Cooper Works, the MINI Coupé Concept offers truly outstanding performance. Maximum output is 155 kW/211 hp, peak torque 260 Newton-metres/192 lb-ft increasing through the Overboost function for a short while to an even more substantial 280 Newton-metres/206 lb-ft. And now the MINI Coupé Concept offers everything it takes to exceed even the supreme performance of the MINI John Cooper Works with this unique power unit.

At the same time this concept car clearly follows the BMW Group’s EfficientDynamics development strategy. More driving pleasure, lower emissions – the MINI Coupé Concept lives out this philosophy expressed by MINI as MINIMALISM in a particularly attractive manner.

Fifty years of MINI: a vision of tomorrow marking an anniversary of today.

Fifty years after the launch of the classic Mini, the appeal of the brand is greater than ever before, with the model range exuding sheer fascination wherever you go. And now, in the anniversary year of the brand, MINI is bringing together this unique tradition and the successful model range offered today with even greater creativity and technical innovation for a truly promising future.

The MINI Coupé Concept is a further milestone in this ongoing development of the brand. The car takes up elementary strengths of the MINI and, through its modern technology and an innovative body concept, offers new standards and characteristics never seen before. So that the MINI Coupé Concept offers many new highlights in adding yet a further character to the existing model range.

Exterior design: the look typical of MINI but with individual character.

The body design of the MINI Coupé Concept also bridges the gap from the earliest days of the Mini’s history all the way to the more distant future of the brand, emphasising the unique nature of the concept as well as its full membership in the MINI family. At the same time the individual and emotional design language arouses the expectation of a particularly thrilling experience on the road.

Especially at the front end of the car a number of icons typical of the brand, as well as the design style so characteristic of MINI, all come together to create a strong family resemblance. In addition, the individual look of the MINI Coupé Concept comes out also in the side view of the car as well as in the design of the rear end.

This unique new two-seater measures 3,714 millimetres (146.2″) in length and 1,683 millimetres (66.3″) in width. Height is 1,356 millimetres (53.4″). Through these dimensions and its athletic proportions alone, the MINI Coupé Concept stands out from the beginning as a compact and muscular sports machine.

The typical MINI look in particularly sporting style.

The new concept car carries over the unmistakable front end look from the four-seater MINI. Smoothly balanced contours on the engine lid characterised by wide and sweeping radii, the large headlights, the homogenous shape of the radiator grille and the wide lower air intake give each model that unique look, openness and charm so typical of the brand. Through the greater rake of the windscreen on the MINI Coupé Concept, the car looks even more striking and dynamic, the low and streamlined body proving clearly that the MINI Coupé Concept is a particularly outstanding performer.

The hexagon radiator grille and the large round headlights are unmistakable design features re-interpreting the front view of the classic Mini in particularly modern style. The direction indicators are integrated in the headlights, just above the innovative three-dimensional surrounds for the positioning lights and the foglamps. The entire front air dam has been adjusted to the sporting look of the car, standing out even wider and more striking than before.

The chrome radiator grille on the MINI Coupé Concept is the same as on the MINI Cooper S. The inner section in the grille is however finished with bars in body colour creating a clear sign of distinction at very first sight from the other members of the MINI family. The bonnet stripes also extend into the radiator grille to provide an even more sporting and dynamic touch.

With its very dynamic curvature and the stylised opening, bearing testimony to the power of the engine lurking within, the front lid likewise comes in the same look as on the particularly powerful versions of the MINI.

Individual roofline as a sign of sporting presence.

The side view of the MINI Coupé Concept also brings together features typical of the MINI family and new highlights in design to form a fascinating whole. The front side panels, for example, come straight from the MINI Convertible. The body joint forming the diagonal line characteristic of every MINI along the front lid and the surrounds on the front side indicators bearing out the style of the MINI Cooper S again provide an unmistakable sign of distinction with historic roots – here the classic Mini had a visible welding seam along the body.

The familiarity in design resulting from these features forms an attractive contrast to the far greater rake of the A-pillars leading into the brand-new, sweeping line of the roof.

Large wheels and a high waistline already give the MINI, the MINI Clubman and the MINI Convertible a particularly powerful and sporting look, with the black strip around the lower section of the body underlining this compact appearance and short body overhangs front and rear emphasising the athletic stature of the car and bearing testimony to that typical go-kart feeling at very first sight.

All this now comes out even more convincingly in the MINI Coupé Concept, also through the unique flow of the roofline. The glazed section of the passenger cell referred to as the greenhouse, for example, is much lower and even more dynamic than on the brand’s “regular” models.

Another feature of the MINI Coupé Concept is the strongly inclined windscreen merging gently into the roof. At the rear the roofline initially moving straight back above the heads of the driver and front passenger flows on into the sturdy C-pillar. The entire roof with all its contours thus comes in a bridge shape quite unmistakable and featured for the first time on the MINI, made up of a strong rear cornerstone formed by the C-pillar and the almost filigree structure above the passenger cell.

The C-pillar is a strong visual expression of the particularly solid and torsionally rigid body structure providing not only superior occupant safety, but also the agility typical of MINI in fast manoeuvres. The C-pillar very powerful in design serves at the same time to guide your perspective towards the rear end of the car, while the side view of the MINI Coupè Concept forms a very strong and convincing wedge shape created by the roofline tapering out to the rear and the waistline rising up slightly in typical MINI style.

All this gives the MINI Coupé Concept a forward-moving impression right from the start, the car clearly expressing its power and muscle even at a standstill. Through its design alone, therefore, the MINI Coupé Concept authentically visualises sporting qualities of the highest standard.

Striking contours and smooth flow of air ensured by the roof spoiler and the rear spoiler edge.

The rear-end design of the MINI Coupé Concept consistently follows the need to optimise the flow of air in the interest of both driving dynamics and efficiency. The principle of “form follows function” so essential to MINI, the look and design of various body elements, fully reflects the characteristic features and qualities of the car. Through its design alone, therefore, the MINI Coupé Concept clearly confirms its sporting potential in a particularly credible and convincing manner.

The rear spoiler with its wing profile at the same level as the C-pillar also makes a particularly effective contribution in guiding the air along the rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept. This large air guidance element spans the entire width of the roof, increasing aerodynamic downforce on the rear axle.

Tapering down elegantly, the rear window on this unique two-seater merges into a short and low rear end with staged contours in typical coupé design. Again, this follows the overriding objective to ensure an optimum flow of air without any turbulence harming the car’s aerodynamics – which is also why the air spoiler on the rear panel is appropriately sharp and clear in its profile.

Beneath the air spoiler at the rear the overall look and design of the MINI Coupé Concept follows the typical philosophy of the brand. Horizontal lines running parallel to one another emphasise the wide track of the car, the body growing wider from top to bottom in cascading style highlighting the muscular stance of the car resting on its wheels in that characteristic style.

The rear light clusters in upright arrangement and surrounded by a wide chrome frame are also typical of the brand. The rear air dam on the MINI Coupé Concept, in turn, comes with a diffuser split up into two sections and ensuring a smooth, swirl-free flow of air beneath the car.

Impressively functional: wide-opening tailgate,
generous luggage space.

The tailgate on the MINI Coupé Concept is yet another highlight of the car. Deliberately foregoing the rear seat bench, this unique two-seater offers lots of additional space for taking along all kinds of luggage.

Luggage capacity is 250 litres or 8.8 cu ft. To use this space most conveniently, the rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept comes with a large and wide-opening tailgate. Hinged above the roof spoiler, the entire tailgate including the rear window swings up gracefully, offering convenient access to the generous luggage space behind the rear seats of the car. And thanks to the low loading sill, accessing the luggage compartment with even heavy and bulky objects is significantly easier.

The complete design of the rear end with its large tailgate is yet another example of the functional design so typical of MINI. All options offered through the concept of the car are optimised to the highest standard through carefully thought-out solutions and a good overall balance. Indeed, this principle already to be admired on the brand’s existing models, for example through the easy-load function on the MINI Convertible, makes a significant contribution to the overall substance of the car. The result is a wide range of innovative solutions quite unique in the market, emphasising the premium character of the MINI brand.

On the MINI Coupé Concept this philosophy is borne out by yet another distinctive feature providing extra space and practical value: The bulkhead between the passenger and the luggage compartments comes with a lockable opening. The through-loading provided in this way, quite unusual on a two-seater coupe, gives the driver and passenger direct access even while driving to travel items they are taking along in the luggage compartment. So that bags with, say, beverages, a music CD or maps are stowed away safely but always within easy reach.

Interior: sports car ambience with an exclusive range of colours and materials.

The MINI Coupé Concept combines the vision of a compact sports car with thrilling agility, on the one hand, and the individual flair and style of the MINI, on the other. Through its entire concept, the car is perfectly designed to offer concentrated driving pleasure of the highest standard. This is borne out not only through the extroverted exterior in its fascinating, sporting look, but also through the interior conceived from the start for active motoring.

Wide-opening doors give the driver and passenger convenient access to the interior, where they enjoy sports seats with strongly contoured side supports for a secure seating position even in particularly fast bends. A three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons enables the driver to steer precisely into bends and control the audio or communication functions with maximum ease. All other control units, in turn, are arranged ergonomically on the dashboard, taking their frequency of use into account.

The breakdown of the cockpit, the dashboard and centre console again follows that special interior design so typical of MINI. Horizontal lines and air vents placed far to the outside emphasise the sheer width of the instrument panel and, at the same time, the generous style of the interior, the slender centre console giving the driver and passenger maximum legroom. The structure of the door linings so typical of the brand, finally, has also been re-interpreted, with the elliptic main element now completely closed in.

The MINI Coupé Concept also comes with a large rev counter directly behind the steering wheel, while the speedometer is part of the central instrument in the upper section of the dashboard. This circular instrument well known as the Center Speedo also houses the audio system as well as the optional entertainment and navigation functions.

Two Chronoswiss clocks to the right and left of the rev counter provide a close link to earlier concept cars by MINI, bridging the gap between the analogue age of the classic Mini and the digital age of the MINI. One clock is a purpose-built stopwatch for taking lap times, the second clock shows the time in classic style.

The colours and materials featured inside the MINI Coupé Concept symbolise the classic sportiness of the car. Like the dashboard, the roof lining of this unprecedented two-seater comes in black providing a calm atmosphere just right for concentrating on driving conditions and essential requirements. Black trim bars combined with a carbon interior trim strip, finally, further enhance this purist look.

Lightweight construction and modern suspension technology
providing a new feeling of go-kart driving.

The MINI Coupé Concept is definitely a MINI and definitely a sports car. The particular charm of this combination results from both the drivetrain and the suspension technology already featured in the current production models, as well as the special highlights of this two-seater concept car.

Over and above their body design, the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible already set the standard today for agility and driving pleasure in their respective segments. Powerful engines and suspension technology quite superior in the small car segment then ensure a truly unique driving experience. Front-wheel drive, powerful disc brakes on all four wheels, the front axle with McPherson spring struts and a centrally guided rear axle with aluminium longitudinal arms and anti-roll bars set the foundation for uniquely safe and agile handling.

EPS Electronic Power Steering with speed-related power assistance, finally, ensures precise manoeuvring round bends and gives the driver exact feedback at all times on road and driving conditions. At the same time on-demand management of steering assistance serves to maximise the car’s efficiency.

The MINI Coupé Concept offers ideal conditions for raising the go-kart feeling created by the car’s drivetrain and suspension technology to an even higher standard. Its entire construction is based on a lightweight concept reducing weight particularly where it really counts for even greater agility. As an example, this two-seater comes with an aluminium roof not only optimising the overall weight of the car, but also lowering the car’s centre of gravity for a significant reduction of body movement and optimised driving behaviour.

Since lower weight also means greater efficiency, the MINI Coupé Concept again offers the option to combine even greater driving pleasure with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reduced to a minimum as an important sign of our times.

Traditional values, modern quality, progressive concept.

Sporting success and agile handling of the highest standard are significant highlights in the history of MINI now going back five decades – and both factors have made a fundamental contribution to the ongoing popularity of this small premium car.

Three overall wins in the Monte Carlo Rally and the concept of driving pleasure expressed so clearly by the car’s go-kart feeling definitely confirm the sporting potential of this small compact both back then and today. The anniversary year is therefore the ideal time to present the MINI Coupé Concept as the vision of an uncompromisingly active sports car.

Another concept car presented even before the re-launch of the MINI brand proves that this philosophy has always fuelled the creativity of the MINI’s designers: The MINI Concept Monte Carlo presented in 1997 was a two-seater with a 160-hp mid-mounted engine. Through its design alone, this concept car already came with a wide range of features destined to be taken up again by the first MINI, short body overhangs front and rear, round headlights and the re-interpretation of the hexagon radiator grille providing an outlook at important styling elements on the production model to follow later. With its extremely powerful body and direct references to motorsport, the MINI Concept Monte Carlo also made a clear pledge to the rally history of the brand.

Now the MINI Coupé Concept, through its unique look, takes up the almost aggressive and extroverted appearance of that former concept car, at the same time providing a new link between the history, the present and the future of the brand. It takes up traditional values of the MINI brand and combines them with the most advanced technologies to offer a fascinating vision of how the MINI model family may continue.

Once again, therefore, MINI is following the needs and wishes of new target groups fully appreciative of the individual style of the brand and associating this character with clearly defined product features. The MINI Coupé Concept addresses the motorist thrilled by that unique combination of driving pleasure, lifestyle, and premium quality so typical of MINI and, at the same time, looking for sporting driving qualities of an even higher standard.

BMW Group da, bünyesindeki Mini markasının yepyeni bir konseptini gün ışığına çıkardı: Mini Crossover Concept. (Siz Mini Crossman deyin isterseniz)

Araç şu ana kadar üretilmiş tüm Mini’lerden daha büyük boyutlara sahip. Dışında her haliyle atak ve ufak bir 4 çeker izlenimi uyandıran aracın içinde de yepyeni bir kontrol ünitesi bulunuyor. Mini Centre Globe (Mini merkez küresi) adı verilen bu 3 boyutlu kumanda ile hem aracın kontrolleri yapılabiliyor, hem de bilgi alınabiliyor. Eğlence, iletişim, yön bulma ve araç fonksiyonları bu küreden idare edilebiliyor.

Taslak çizimlerinin yayınlandığı modelin Paris Otomobil Fuarı’nda sergilenmesi de sürpriz olmaz. BMW’nin modeli 2010 yılında piyasaya sürmesi bekleniyor. Dünyada bir yandan aşırı yakıt tükettikleri için SUV‘lere karşı maksatını aşan bir tepki oluşmaya başlarken, 4 çeker araçlara telebin gerçekte tam olarak azalmaması, markaları crossover adı altında daha ufak SUV kasalarını geliştirmeye zorluyor.

Mini Crossover Concept bombasından sonra size şunu da haber vereyim. BMW’nin önümüzdeki yıllarda ürün gamına ekleyeceği 2 yeni crossover daha var: X1 ve X2. Temel olarak 1 serisini baz alacak olan X1 Mini Crossover Concept boyutlarına yakın bir ufaltılmış X3 olacak. X2 ise, aynı platformda üretilecek olan bir crossover coupé, yani X6′nın ufaklığı olacak.

Geçen hafta Toyota’nın Paris’te tanıtacağı modellerden Urban Cruiser’ın da ilk üretim modeli fotoğraflarını paylaşmıştım. Önümüzdeki 2 yıl kompakt crossover segmenti hızla genişleyecek gibi görünüyor.

BMW’nin resmi basın bültenini de aşağıda okuyabilirsiniz.

The MINI Crossover Concept.

The MINI brand is continuing its overwhelming story of success – now taking a new approach with the MINI Crossover Concept.

This Design Study offers a fascinating outlook at a new facet of the brand powerfully expressed by a truly innovative body concept – the fourth body variant, to be precise, following the classic two-door, the MINI Convertible, and the MINI Clubman.

The MINI Crossover Concept is a new model variant for the first time measuring more than four metres in length, with four drive wheels, four doors and four single seats. These features alone place the new car right in the line of vision of new target groups seeking to combine the individual style of the brand with enhanced versatility within the interior and innovative functionality throughout.

A universal, multifunction fastening rail, the MINI Center Rail, extending between the seats on the centre console of the MINI Crossover Concept, offers not only offers unconventional storage options, but also provides a consistent link between the front row of seats and the rear.

A further highlight within the MINI interior is the innovative central instrument in three-dimensional finish, the MINI Centre Globe.

This combined control and display unit formed as a globe featured for the first time in an automobile worldwide sets new standards for the integrated control of entertainment, communication, navigation, and vehicle functions.

The MINI Crossover reflects not only the potential of the MINI model family in growing further and further to new dimensions, but also the innovative power of MINI’s designers. In this case, the outlook at an additional MINI concept is enriched by a wide range of visions expressing a unique driving experience and way of life only a MINI is able to evoke.

All innovations presented in the MINI Crossover Concept are conceived to expand that characteristic MINI feeling by yet another new dimension.

The innovative character of the new car comprises its body design as well as the drivetrain, the interior and the control concept. Indeed, offering options and versatility of this kind, the MINI Crossover Concept opens up new dimensions in mobility also beyond urban life.

All-wheel drive – the foundation for a new MINI feeling.
A new MINI offers more – and does so in unique style every time.

The MINI Crossover Concept clearly expresses this principle, its all-wheel drive serving to give the new model an even wider range of practical use in new areas and a new experience on routes already driven. But in doing so the MINI Crossover Concept is not limited to the usual status of a conventional all-wheeler. Rather, to offer its additional mobility potential even more consistently, the Concept Car comes with numerous design features making it an all-round talent for a unique experience in everyday life, for enjoying leisure time to the utmost, for adventure travels of all kinds and for travel planning. Hence, the MINI Crossover Concept looks at new objectives and, at the same time, new target groups.

Four metres in length – more calibre, more options.

As a consistent enhancement of the MINI model family, the MINI Crossover Concept offers new calibre and new format in every respect. This is the first MINI to measure more than four metres in length. And measuring 1,830 millimetres/72.0″ in width as well as 1,598 millimetres/62.9″ in height, the MINI Crossover Concept goes beyond the existing production models from MINI also in this respect. Wheelbase, finally, is 2,606 millimetres/102.6″, again ensuring an even more powerful stance on the road.

These exterior dimensions of the Concept Car are a clear symbol of the quest for additional options in driving the car and in the new, enhanced driving experience.

The MINI Crossover Concept offers extra space and mobility at the rear as well as a capacity to transport never seen before in a MINI. Added to all this, there is enhanced flexibility in splitting up the interior space, catering for all individual wishes and demands.

Combining its unique design with outstanding agility by no means restricted to the beaten track alone, the MINI Crossover Concept holds a unique position within the MINI segment. At the same time it clearly stands out as a member of the MINI model family through the appropriate re-interpretation of design elements typical of the brand. The MINI Crossover Concept thus symbolises the breakthrough into a new category of vehicles, broadening the appeal of the brand to an even larger target group.

Four doors – new diversity through asymmetric arrangement.

With two doors on each side of the car, the MINI Crossover Concept offers particularly comfortable access to the rear. Here again, therefore, the new model enhances the options and qualities offered so far by the existing body concepts of the MINI.

But even this is not all: The MINI Crossover Concept is not a four-door in the classic sense, as is clearly expressed by the asymmetric arrangement of the doors in the Design Study. A conventional arrangement of doors is to be found only on the front passenger’s side, while on the driver’s side the MINI Crossover Concept comes with a conventional door for the first row of seats plus a lift/sliding door moving along the outside for convenient access to the rear and for loading the car from the side. And by dropping the B-pillar on the driver’s side, the MINI Crossover Concept exhausts the potential of this generous opening to an even higher degree. Frameless side windows, finally, are yet another feature of this truly exceptional four-door.

The rear door swivelling to one side, together with its frameless and retractable rear window, likewise offers an even higher standard of practical use and most convenient loading conditions. Thanks to the large opening and the low loading sill, sports equipment and other, even bulkier objects can be loaded conveniently into the luggage space offering even larger capacity when required by lowering the individually folding rear seats completely into the floor of the car with the help of a parallelogram kinematic mechanism.

Storage capacities may then be increased even further by a transport case fitted outside on the rear door. And last but certainly not least, the roof rail system available on the MINI Crossover Concept is simply ideal for fitting ski, snowboard and bicycle carriers as well as transport boxes of all sizes.

The roof structure of the MINI Crossover Concept offers further options in enhancing everyday driving qualities and leisure-time enjoyment. As a folding roof cover extending throughout the entire length of the roof, the roof structure may be opened both from the front and from the rear, letting either fresh air or warm sunshine into the car – or both, depending on the driver’s and passengers’ wishes.

The opening at the rear also serves to accommodate extremely long objects transported in the car, ranging from a surfboard all the way to cross-country skis. So even in this case, transporting anything the driver wishes to take along is easy and convenient.

Four single seats – for maximum comfort inside the MINI.

The MINI Crossover Concept stands out not only as an unconventional, but rather as a truly exceptional four-seater. The single seats at the rear, to mention perhaps the most significant highlight, come in the same contours as the driver’s and front passenger’s seats and are adjustable by 13 centimetres or 5.1″ fore-and-aft. So depending on individual requirements, the rear seats offer either lounge-like legroom or additional storage capacity in the rear compartment.

The MINI Center Globe – a new vision of the central instrument of the future.

Featuring their round Central Display right in the middle of the dashboard, the current MINIs already boast an interior design feature quite unique and unmistakable in its look. Indeed, this multi-function display serves to conveniently control all major entertainment, telecommunication and navigation functions, providing the speedometer function around its outer circumference.

Now the MINI Crossover Concept introduces the consistent enhancement of this display and control concept: the MINI Center Globe. For the first time, therefore, the central display and control unit is designed in this Concept Study as a globe. This three-dimensional layout allows even more consistent integration of functions and the appropriate presentation of information and entertainment options. In addition to the vertical and horizontal display features currently available, the new instrument adds a further, three-dimensional element with displays stratified on various levels and highlighted to a greater or lesser degree, depending on the driver’s and front passenger’s requirements. The current speed of the car, finally, is shown as before in typical MINI style on the display round the edge.

To clearly, flexibly and legibly present all information at all times, the MINI Center Globe comes with ultra-modern laser projection technology. With its unique optical features, the laser projector allows simultaneous presentation of pictures on various levels, with a varying focus and in powerful colours.

Benefiting from this technology never seen before in an automobile worldwide, the MINI Crossover Concept is also able to optically separate the MINI Centre Globe into two hemispheres. These adjustable, moving hemispheres then enable the driver and front passenger to present and view different pictures recognisable only from their individual perspective. In other words, the front passenger may for example surf the net while the driver maintains his free view of all displays and instruments.

To provide this special effect, the hemisphere facing the front passenger closes down from the other side and acts as a projection surface presenting the pictures required.

The MINI Centere Globe presented in this Design Study already shows today what options are conceivable in terms of navigation, communication and entertainment in the car of the future, using innovative technologies of this outstanding calibre.

The driver and/or front passenger operate the MINI Centre Globe by a touch-sensitive surface, a trackball on the steering wheel, buttons and slide controls in the lower section of the MINI Centre Globe, and a keyboard on the front passenger’s side extending at the touch of a button from the dashboard.

Such versatile and flexible use of the MINI Center Globe gives this new control unit the character of an innovative travel companion adjusting at all times to the individual wishes of the driver and front passenger and helping them enjoy mobility in a new dimension wherever they go.

The MINI Centre Globe is additionally linked to the starter system for the engine. Instead of a conventional key, the driver uses a start/stop unit referred to as the Keyball.

To start the car, all the driver has to do is insert the Keyball on the MINI Crossover into the appropriate opening in the upper edge of the MINI Centre Globe. The Keyball then rolling towards the driver along the middle of the MINI Centre Globe. In this position the driver is able to press the Keyball in order to start the engine. Pressing the Keyball again, in turn, he switches off the engine and the Keyball rolls down into its housing bay from where the driver can conveniently remove the ball.

The MINI Centre Rail – a perfect connection bringing the MINI team front and rear together.

Instead of a conventional centre consol, the MINI Crossover Concept comes with a fastening rail referred to as the MINI Centre Rail and extending from the dashboard all the way to the tailgate of the car. This is indeed the connecting unit between the front and the rear seats.

Holders for entertainment and telecommunication devices, cupholders, storage units and boxes may be conveniently attached to this rail and subsequently pushed forward or backward along the entire length of the car.

A special fastening system developed specifically for MINI serves to attach individual items to the Centre Rail, for example an external music player and other devices, storage boxes and holders for sunglasses, gloves, tickets for parking, coins, writing utensils or a travel guide, as well as all other kinds of holders and supports.

An armrest with an integrated storage box, to mention another example, may be attached both at the front and at the rear.

The Centre Rail also facilitates the common use of storage boxes and devices and makes it much easier to pass on food and drinks to the rear-seat passengers while driving.

In the MINI Crossover Concept this pleasure of enjoying all the benefits of motoring together is symbolised by a special collection of dishes and cups made of unique porcelain created specifically for the new Concept Car.

Four sophisticated materials for a truly exclusive ambience.

Such use of top-quality porcelain highlights the exclusive lifestyle character borne out in the MINI Crossover Concept also in conjunction with three further, particularly exclusive materials in the interior: Around the instrument panel genuine wood trim extends across the entire width of the car. The armrests on the doors and the inlays in the footwells, in turn, are made of massive lime wood. Inlays made of specially hardened, lagoon-blue glass, in turn, highlight the door linings as well as the surrounds on the air vents.

Like the door closing handles on the front passenger’s side, the MINI Centre Rail is made of massive, matt-polished aluminium. Looking at the appropriate colours for the interior, in turn, the designers opted for natural, authentic shades, the Dark Green leather on the driver’s seat standing out clearly from the Coffee Brown leather on the other seats. The remaining cloth surfaces are finished in Light Grey and Light Brown, with a soft rubber cover adorned by wood inlays in the footwells.

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Mini Clubman’la ilgili Bigumigu’daki lansman haberine ve reklam kampanyası haberine göz atabilirsiniz.

Fiat, 90′larda yaşadığı krizi atlatıp kendi markasını ayağa kaldırırken alt markaları Alfa Romeo ve Lancia’yı da toparlayıp güçlendirmeyi başardı son yıllarda. Grande Punto, Avrupa’da B segmentinde başarıdan başarıya koşarken, aynı platform üzerinde geliştirilen Alfa Romeo MiTo, daha piyasaya çıkmadan büyük bir beklenti yaratmış durumda.

BMW-Fiat işbirliği sadece bir model geliştirmekle sınırlı kalmayacak bir stratejik ortaklık olacak gibi görünüyor. Son yılların gözde konularından Alfa Romeo’nun ABD’ye geri dönüşü de bu operasyonun bir ayağı olacakmış. Alfa Romeo’ların Amerika’da Mini mağazalarında satılmaları gündemdeymiş. Alfa Romeo 2010 yılından itibaren Amerika’da yeniden satışa başlayacak. Marka 1995 yılında bu pazardan çekilmişti.