Iconic British automotive marque Mini has unveiled the first four design elements of its upcoming family of all-electric vehicles.
It looks as if Mini is going to milk the news cycles around its upcoming all-electric model family, offering us dribs and drabs of information and sneak peeks before they make an official unveiling.
But with that in mind, what we’ve seen so far is looking very nice.
Mini unveiled the first four design elements this week of the upcoming electric model family, giving us a preview of the suitably ambiguously named “Charismatic Simplicity” design language that will be at the core of the cars.
“With our new Charismatic Simplicity design language, we are completely rethinking the iconic Mini,” said Oliver Heilmer, head of design for Mini.
“Our purist, progressive approach combines the simplicity of functional elements with the emotionality that MINI is renowned for. We are convinced that the conscious reduction to a few, but expressive elements enable innovations that would have been unthinkable before.”
A completely redesigned light-alloy wheel will “no longer focus on the sculptural nature of the spoke structure, but on a graphic design characterised by strong colour contrasts.”
Designed so as to create an illusion of size, which is further emphasised by the outward-pointing spokes, the two-dimensional wheel design also helps contribute to improve aerodynamics.
Inside, a round OLED display combines the traditional circular central instrument display with the latest in display technology. With a diameter of 240mm and combining the functions of the instrument cluster and an on-board monitor, the touch control allows for a new and minimalistic user interface.
A range of materials will be used for both the steering wheel and seats, while the steering wheel itself has also been redesigned.
The standard steering wheel comes in a two-spoke design while an optional version adds a distinctive fabric third element. High quality and sustainable materials will be used throughout, and new colours and patterns will be available for the seats, side panels, and armrests.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.