A concept car will be brought by MINI at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (16-24 January 2010) in Detroit. MINI Beachcomber Concept is a creativity that cross borders to enhance driving pleasure and combining them with the vision of a radically open body concept.
At Beachcomber MINI Concept uses a new all-wheel drive system, ALL4, and a flexible interior make this car ideal for a spontaneous and active experience. It is designed without doors or a conventional roof, and all other body elements that could limit the intensity of the occupants’ encounter with their surrounding world. This allows the driver and up to three passengers to connect with their surroundings – whether cruising through town, enjoying rough tracks in the mountains, or breezing along the beach. The vehicle’s space concept, partnered with a modern drivetrain technology, ensures a highly emotional driving experience. In the event of bad weather, drivers can either use the soft roof or the lightweight door and roof elements, all of which fit easily and can be installed within a few minutes.
MINI designers were inspired by the new MINI crossover production model, which they enhanced beyond the realms of urban mobility to create the MINI Beachcomber Concept. In creating this concept, they utilized the technical qualities of the production crossover model, and made adaptations to offer the ultimate expression of freedom. The result is a new open concept driving experience for all your senses, plus a greater degree of versatility than ever experienced before in a MINI.
The MINI Beachcomber Concept offers a wide range of technology and features for driving pleasure in the 21st century. The premium manufacturer touches in the areas of design, drivetrain, safety and production technology bring together the undiluted character of a concept car with a wide range of possibilities in the real world. Offers all the flexibility and spaciousness required for an active lifestyle.
The vehicle’s rollover safety also meets the highest demands made of an open car and it is able to withstand even extreme situations. The frame on the passenger cell is formed by substantially reinforced A-pillars, and the D-pillar bar is complete with an integrated lateral support element at the rear of the car. It is made of high-strength steel for maximum stiffness. This additional safety component is finished in body color, and reinforces the commitment to safety. MINI Beachcomber Concept is also able to carry extra-long objects, such as surfboards, with ease.
The body of the MINI Beachcomber Concept concentrates on the essential and leaves no doubt that this is a genuine MINI. At first sight, unmistakable design elements reminiscent of the brand clearly stand out. Like the MINI Crossover Concept presented for the first time at the Paris Motor Show in autumn 2008, the new model clearly reflects the ongoing process of MINI design and the introduction of MINI design language in new types of vehicles. Indeed, both the smooth and firm design of the body and proportions typical of MINI show that this is clearly a member of the range.
The entire front section of the car is angled towards the road. The engine compartment lid is powerfully chiseled, and the powerdome, with its integrated air insert, symbolizes the outstanding performance of the turbocharged engine within the car.
The hexagon radiator grille, again typical of MINI, comes with contour lines carried over directly from the front look of the Mini Moke. With its vertical position, three robust crossbars and additional integrated headlights, the radiator grille gives the MINI Beachcomber Concept a particularly powerful and convincing presence.
