Mini has nearly signed off the designs of its next generation of models, which include smaller and bigger models with a mix of petrol and electric power.
Design boss Oliver Heilmer, speaking to Autocar at the recent Munich motor show, promised an evolution in style for the “icon” of its range, the staple Mini three-door hatchback, but more radical designs are on the cards for the rest of the line-up, with clues provided by the recent Urbanaut concept.
The new Mini hatchback range will be split into two distinct models: a petrol variant built in Oxford and based on a heavily updated version of the existing car’s architecture; and a new electric version that will be slightly shorter and built in China only on a dedicated EV platform as part of a joint venture with Great Wall Motors. Both are due in 2023.
This Chinese joint venture will also spawn a new electric crossover, while the next-generation Countryman will be built in Germany and offered with petrol and electric power.
Other Minis understood to be planned but not yet officially confirmed include a small electric MPV dubbed the Traveller. A production version of the Urbanaut concept is also under consideration for later in the decade.
However, it is by no means a given that all of the current Mini models will be replaced. The range has both expanded and shrunk during BMW’s ownership of the brand in response to prevailing market needs, with differing executions and even bodystyles between generations, as with the Mini Clubman.
On the topic of how big the Mini range could grow, Heilmer said: “It’s a topic we [Heilmer and Mini boss Bernd Körber] discuss every two weeks.”
Heilmer added: “We talk of new models, different models, and first ask about whether it’s a brand fit and not just doing the car for the sake of it. Interestingly, we’re not exploding to eight to 10 [models]. It’s always around four or five. It’s always important to question models and ask if they will have a market in the future. We’re in that process now, not for the next four to five years but the years after that.”
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Leather and wood, nothing says premium and luxury like these two materials in an automobile. While there are even higher and lesser grades of these materials that have been used, depending on whether you are a mass market vehicle maker or a true luxury brand. But, what does recycled water bottles and cork say about luxury?! So Mini is planning to go MORE up market, moving away from leather and wood, useing 'more sustainable' materials like polyester, cotton, vinyl and leather-like fabrics?! Weren't those the same materials used in Ford's of the late 70s and 80s? Why would one want to spend even more money for a Mini mind you, for the same interior materials as that of and old Ford?! What am I missing here?
@Andrew1 - Appease the Brexiloons? I'm not sure if you bothered to read the article, and why should you as remoaners aren't concerned with facts, but those back lights will either be the Union Jack or the Chinese Flag, they won't be an EU flag nor of an EU member state.
I hope it hasn't escaped remoaners attentions that this new car will not be built in an EU country but will be built in Britain and China. Remind me, BMW are German are they not? Even the Germans are building outside the EU.
Just thought I'd mention it.
Exactly! Remoaners don't like facts. The Mini is sold Worldwide and Countries outside the EU would be confused to have an EU Flag on the car (EU isn't even a Country) however would understand the Union Flag because of the Heritage of Austin Mini.
And besides, the profit goes to Germany. So keep buying them, clown, the German people thank you for your contribution to their GDP.