CoverEFX 2011 Mini Cooper JCW

CoverEFX has releases a new styling and performance package for the MINI Cooper JCW. The CoverEFX Mini Cooper JCW is covered in a black leather style, full body, foil wrap, with matt gold metallic accents. On the foil wrap of the CoverEFX Mini Cooper JCW, the tuners have glued, by hand, thousands of small gold accents.

The vehicle�s 1.6 liter turbocharged engine, which produces 211 hp and 280 Nm in stock form, can receive one of the company�s two kits. The first one brings a 2.5-inch exhaust system with a Milltek downpipe, a sports catalyst and a sports air filter, as well as an ECU remap, raising the output to 236 hp and 350 Nm. Stage two uses the same hardware mods, but includes a different ECU software, allowing the driver to play with 252 hp and 382 Nm. The company also offers a reduction for the gearshifter travel.

The wheels they�ve picked for this car are black and matte gold metallic OZ LM rims called Wave 7�17 ET37 with Toyo R888 84W tires 205/40 R17 complemented by stainless steel KW Variant 3 suspension.





Press Release

Mini Cooper Works by CoverEFX with 252 HP

It is highly gratifying to see what come up with different interpretations of the MINI the tuning industry is capable of. Each tuner highlights various key points, from adequate wheel / tire combinations and specific color schemes using different methods for engine performance optimization.

The well-known vehicle tuner, CoverEFX company from Erftstadt, combined both of the above "key points" and thus killed two birds with one stone.

There is a fully foil-finished body in black leather style and the imitation of the second rim coloring, also in matt gold metallic, gazes in wonder at CFC. The CFC premium foil with special adhesive technology from Erftstadt professionals ensures easy wrap with a bubble-free mounting and has an extremely long shelf life.

In addition, thousands of small gold specimens were glued individually by hand on the dark leather- style foil or foil with textured surface!

CoverEFX offers additional services to the engine of 211 hp / 280 Nm series in two stages: Stage 1 involves software optimization to 236 HP and 350 Nm, installation of 2.5-inch exhaust system with Milltek downpipe, sports catalyst and extra large sports air filter. Stage 2 provides again corrected software and no modifications in other "ingredients" with 252 hp and maximum torque of 382 Nm. The respective software adjustments relate to all involved components and passed the performance tests.
In addition, the features include reduction in shifter travel (Shifter in WorxRacing Position).

A wheel / tire combination of matte black and matte gold metallic OZ LM rims called Wave 7x17 ET37 with Toyo R888 84W tires 205/40 R17 and stainless steel KW Variant 3 suspension maintain the road adherence.

The wide-open door on the driver's side invites any viewers to sit down and - more or less - to turn round...

BRISTISH RAIL SERVICE VANS OF THE 50�s AND 60�s

British Railways came into being in 1948 as an amalgamation of the four regional companies: Great Western (GWR), Southern (SR), London Midland & Scottish (LMS) and London & North Eastern (LNER). For about three years BR�s road transport fleet remained in the old companies� liveries with �BRITISH RAILWAYS� painted over the obliterated company names.

As new vehicles were purchased, these were painted in BR�s first standard livery colour of all-over maroon.

BR Southern Region Service Van

This Austin A40 van is in British Railways original all-maroon livery and carries the �double-sausages� logo. This single-colour livery-colour livery was superseded during the 1950s by the so-called �blood and custard� colour sheme of carmine and deep cream which itself was replaced by a �stone� livery.

British Transport Hotels Van

The Morris Minor van in this set represents a light van in service with British Transport Hotels in the 1960s. It is in the all-over �stone� livery that was used by British Rail from 1961, and carries the double-arrow logo�sometimes unkindly called �the arrows of indecision�. This logo persisted in use until early 1996.

MINI Cooper SD

The Cooper SD is offered in three-door the brand�sfour diesel, performers follows spy photos that is sports-focused diesel models, including the three-door Cooper SD and Cabrio SD, the high-riding Countryman SD and the Clubman SD wagon would move to compete with the likes of Volkswagen�s Golf GTD. Drawing its styling inspiration from the MINI Cooper S models, the SD range joins the range as the top-shelf diesel offering in each model�s line-up.

Available this spring, the SDs feature a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with 143 PS (105 kW / 141 hp) and 305 Nm (225 lb-ft) of torque. It allows the Cooper to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and hit a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). Furthermore, the car consumes an average of 4.3L/100km (65.7 mpg imp) and emits 114 g/km.

In addition to engine efficiency, the functions of braking energy recovery, the Auto Start / Stop, recommended gear, power steering they do make a really tight consumption figures.

The Cooper SD offers a 0-100km/h sprint time of 8.1 seconds - down from 9.9 seconds for the Cooper D - and fuel consumption is listed at 4.3 l/100km. Its convertible sibling covers the run in 8.7 seconds, using 4.5 l/100km of diesel.





Press Release

MINI in 2011: More power, mo...

MINI in 2011: More power, more sportiness, more individuality. Premiere of the MINI Cooper SD with 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine and 105 kW/143 hp - John Cooper Works Pack for the MINI and MINI Convertible - MINI Yours presents the MINI Clubman Hampton special edition.

Munich. Just a few months after the market launch of the new MINI family and the MINI Countryman, the start of 2011 has brought another wave of driving fun and individuality in the premium brand's hallmark style. The MINI Cooper SD, due for launch in spring 2011, will be the most powerful diesel variant yet in the MINI line-up. The new 2.0-litre engine developing 105 kW/143 hp - available for the MINI, MINI Clubman, MINI Convertible and MINI Countryman - will drum up even more power yet burn extremely small amounts of fuel. Motor sport enthusiasts will welcome the new John Cooper Works Pack option also on offer for the MINI and MINI Convertible.

Furthermore, the customary selection of personalisation options available for drivers to configure their MINI in their own image has taken on even greater proportions. The newly developed MINI Yours product range offers a host of extremely attractive customisation options. The first ambassador of the exclusive and innovative MINI Yours style will be the MINI Clubman Hampton special edition.

MINI Cooper SD: Impressive on the power, frugal at the pumps.
The new MINI Cooper SD slots into the range above the MINI One D with 66 kW/90 hp and MINI Cooper D developing 82 kW/112 hp as the most powerful diesel MINI. Its 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel unit produces maximum output of 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm. A stand-out characteristic of the new diesel is its mighty pulling power, which remains on tap even under heavy loads; maximum torque of 305 Newton metres (225 lb-ft) is available between 1,750 and 2,700 rpm. Add this to the excellent balance between output and fuel consumption familiar from the other models in the MINI family plus extraordinary power development for a four-cylinder engine, and the MINI Cooper SD has all the tools the sporty driver could ever need.

In its basic construction, the new 2.0-litre diesel fits the same template as the 1.6-litre units fitted in the MINI One D and MINI Cooper D. Its all-aluminium crankcase helps to keep the weight of the engine as low as possible, while the turbocharger with variable intake geometry develops the right level of power at all engine speeds. The engine in the MINI Cooper SD has a model-specific and extremely powerful turbocharger controlled by the engine management system, while common-rail direct injection with solenoid-valve injectors positioned centrally in the cylinder head ensure that the fuel is fed in extremely precisely and efficiently. The injection system works with maximum pressure of 1,600 bar and ensures optimum mixture preparation in the combustion chamber.

The new MINI Cooper SD is also fitted as standard with an extensive range of MINIMALISM technology. In addition to the engine's efficiency, features such as Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start/Stop function, Shift Point Display, Electric Power Steering and the need-based operation of ancillary components help to produce outstanding fuel economy for this output class.

To ensure that its emissions are as clean as possible, the MINI Cooper SD is fitted with a diesel particulate filter and an oxidation catalytic converter. No extra injections of fuel are required to clean the particulate filter. And, as with all current MINI models, the new diesel variants meet the EU5 exhaust emissions standard. Comfort levels on the move, meanwhile, are aided by the four-cylinder engine's low vibrations and harmonious acoustic properties; here, the particularly sonorous soundtrack of the MINI Cooper SD unit when pushing on through higher revs lifts it above its two diesel stablemates.

The 2.0-litre powerplant demonstrates its sporting credentials in the MINI Cooper SD with acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). This outstanding level of efficiency is reflected in average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres (65.7 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 114 grams per kilometre. The new MINI Cooper SD Clubman reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in 8.6 seconds and also has a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). The average fuel economy of the MINI Cooper SD Clubman is 4.4 litres per 100 km (64.2 mpg imp), while CO2 emissions stand at 115 g/km. The MINI Cooper SD Convertible, meanwhile, highlights its sporting potential with a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 8.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). Its extra dose of driving fun combines with average fuel consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 km (62.8 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 118 g/km.

In the MINI Countryman this extra-sporty diesel engine teams up with either front-wheel drive or the all-wheel-drive system MINI ALL4. The MINI Cooper SD Countryman sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.3 seconds, the MINI Cooper SD Countryman ALL4 in 9.4 seconds, on the way to top speeds of 198 and 195 km/h (123/121 mph) respectively. The front-wheel-drive MINI Cooper SD Countryman has fuel economy of 4.6 litres per 100 km, the all-wheel-drive variant achieves 4.9 litres per 100 km. CO2 emissions are 122 and 130 grams per kilometre respectively.

The models fitted with the new diesel powerplant come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, whose ratios are tuned carefully to the engine's performance characteristics to enable powerful and silky smooth acceleration. A ready-to-drive weight of 44.8 kilograms (98.7 lb) makes this the lightest gearbox of its kind. Added to which, it sets a new benchmark in the MINI segment with its short shift travel and impressively precise action. A six-speed automatic gearbox will also be available from launch as an option. Its exceptionally short shift times and direct "target gear" finding capability on downshifts also allow the automatic to enhance the sporting character of the MINI Cooper SD. The six-speed automatic will also be available for the MINI Cooper D, MINI Cooper D Clubman, MINI Cooper D Convertible and MINI Cooper D Countryman from spring 2011. In the interests of delivering the optimum combination of engine and gearbox, these models will also be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel unit. This variant matches the output and torque of the 1.6-litre engine in the model variants with manual gearbox.

The MINI Cooper SD also uses model-specific design features to show off its sporting credentials. The most powerful diesel model in the range stands out - like the flagship petrol model, the MINI Cooper S - with its extra-large air intake in the front apron and an air scoop on the bonnet. Like the MINI Cooper S, it also displays its model identity in its side indicator surrounds (in its case with "SD" lettering) and has twin tailpipes positioned in the centre of the rear apron. The MINI Cooper SD, MINI Cooper SD Clubman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman also come with an eye-catching roof spoiler.

Racing genes ex-works: The John Cooper Works Pack for the MINI and MINI Convertible.
MINI also offers models and options under the John Cooper Works product brand, giving customers everything they need to enjoy extreme driving fun and express their passion for racing. A John Cooper Works Pack has now been developed for the MINI and MINI Convertible, offering components that give the cars a head-turning sporting allure - both technically and stylistically. The model-specific interior and exterior components optimise the handling of the MINI and ensure it delivers an impressive visual impact. The John Cooper Works Pack is due to be available from the second quarter of 2011 as a factory-fit option.

Key to giving the cars fitted with the John Cooper Works Pack their imposing appearance is the aerodynamics package, which lends the front, rear and flanks of the MINI and MINI Convertible an undeniably sporting flavour. The black border around the lower part of the body is highlighted particularly clearly at the front and rear by a centrally positioned indentation. The inner section of the surrounds for the positioning lights or foglamps on the outer edges of the front apron feature horizontal slats. Plus, the radiator grille has the same honeycomb structure as the lower air intake. The side skirts continue the dynamic thread, curving inwards with a sweeping flourish and adding a stylised opening at the rear. As part of the aerodynamics package features, the powerfully formed rear apron includes prominent cut-outs at its outer edges which mimic the appearance of the positioning light and foglamp surrounds integrated into the front apron.

The 17-inch weight-optimised light-alloy wheels in John Cooper Works Cross Spoke CHALLENGE design ensure the best possible contact with the road. Moreover, the John Cooper Works Pack comes with the traction mode DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) added to the standard-fitted stability system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), as well as EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) - the electronically controlled locking function for the driven axle differential. DTC mode, which is activated at the touch of a button, raises the intervention thresholds of the stability control technology, making it easier to pull away on loose sand or snow with a degree of wheel spin. The system also allows controllable slip through the driven wheels under particularly sporty cornering. The EDLC system assists a sporty driving style when accelerating out of corners and sharp bends. In tight corners it brakes a spinning driven wheel as required to enhance the car's traction without adversely affecting its self-steering properties. And that allows the driver to feed the car through corners more smoothly, as well as at greater speed.
The interior components included in the John Cooper Works Pack also play their part in creating a full-blooded driving experience. These include John Cooper Works door entry strips and the John Cooper Works sports leather steering wheel with red contrast stitching. Cars with a manual gearbox are also kitted out with a John Cooper Works gearshift lever with red shift pattern lettering and a leather gaiter with red contrast stitching. Customers specifying a manual gearbox will also find the handbrake gaiter featuring red contrast stitching.

The John Cooper Works Pack is available for all engine variants of the MINI and MINI Convertible and can be combined with eight body colours. The aerodynamics package included as part of the John Cooper Works Pack can also be ordered on its own for the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Convertible.

Exclusive to the MINI Cooper S: John Cooper Works Tuning Kit.
The selection of John Cooper Works retrofit options will also welcome some attractive new additions in spring 2011. Customers keen to sample the sporting driving experience in the MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper S Clubman or MINI Cooper S Convertible in an even more focused form will be able to order their cars with the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit. Performance-optimised engine management and a specifically designed air filter system enable the twin-scroll turbo engine to develop even greater power. Indeed, the maximum output of the four-cylinder unit rises another 12 kW to 147 kW/200 hp at 5,700 rpm. Plus, the driver can call on maximum torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) between 1,250 and 5,000 rpm when some seriously forceful acceleration is required - and this can be raised to as much as 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm courtesy of the Overboost function. All of which means that the MINI Cooper S can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.8 seconds and record a top speed of 234 km/h (145 mph).

The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit includes a model-specific sports silencer with chrome tailpipes, which optimises the exhaust gas discharge and gives the engine sound a particularly sporting note. It is available for retrofitting on all relevant models with manual gearbox produced since March 2010. It meets the MINI brand's high standards of quality and safety in terms of both design and engineering and is retrofitted, like all John Cooper Works accessories components, by authorised MINI Service Partners. This means that the car's warranty will remain unaffected.

Another new addition to the John Cooper Works accessories range is the 18-inch Cross Spoke Red Stripe light-alloy wheel variant, which will also be available from spring 2011. The black wheel features the innovative addition of a red trim strip on the wheel rim. This high-quality marking is produced by means of a special painting process, and the colour tone is identical to the red of the painted John Cooper Works brake callipers.

Premiere for MINI Yours as the MINI Clubman Hampton takes to the stage.
As a pioneer and one-off in the premium small car segment, MINI offers an options range unmatched in its variety to allow customers to configure their car exactly how they want it. Customers can choose from a large selection of exterior paint finishes, light-alloy wheels, upholstery variants, interior trim and Colour Lines, MINI-specific options such as mirror caps and graphics, and numerous other optional extras and accessories, to make every MINI a one-off creation designed in detail to reflect their own individual style. From spring 2011 MINI will open up another new avenue when it comes to the ultra-stylish customisation of the brand's cars. The MINI Yours range of products will feature exclusive design options delivered from the factory for the exterior and interior of the current range of MINI models. Among the features of the MINI Yours range are unusual paint finishes, upholstery variants and interior colours, stylishly configured equipment packages and limited editions based on the now four model series in the MINI family.

An exclusive variant of the MINI Clubman takes centre stage for the premiere of MINI Yours. The MINI Clubman Hampton special-edition model embodies the character of MINI Yours - underpinned by uncompromising premium quality and design cues typical of the brand - in a highly concentrated form. Its design features reference both the brand's British heritage and the special edition's unique designation, inspired by the southwest London suburb. At the same time, the first limited-edition variant of the MINI Clubman continues a tradition established by successful editions of earlier models. For example, the Park Lane, Seven, Checkmate and Sidewalk editions of the MINI offered customers particularly neat ways to satisfy their desire for exclusive configurations.

The MINI Clubman Hampton is painted in the Reef Blue metallic shade developed specially for this model. The roof and surrounds for the special edition's rear doors are silver, as are the wheels and Colour Line. The exterior colours Pepper White, Midnight Black and Eclipse Grey can be specified as an option, while Black and Reef Blue are available as contrast colours for the roof and C-pillars. The light-alloy wheels in Twin Blade Spoke design can be ordered in silver or black with a dark red trim ring. The headlights come with black reflectors if the optional xenon units are specified. A logo on the B-pillar and "Hampton" lettering on the side indicator surrounds and radiator grille provide subtle references to the car's exclusive status. The "MINI 50 Hampton" lettering on the door entry strips recalls the introduction five decades ago of an additional bodywork version of the classic MINI, which today ranks as the historic predecessor of the MINI Clubman.

The interior of the MINI Clubman Hampton also boasts a very distinctive style. An "H" on the seat tags, red edging and orange contrast stitching are the identifying features of the black Lounge Leather seats. The anthracite-coloured roof liner, the likewise anthracite dials of the rev counter and the speedometer on the Centre Speedo also contribute to the model's special ambience. The Centre Speedo is bordered by a trim ring in matt dark red, like that on the wheels. The Chilli Pack is also included in the MINI Clubman Hampton, adding items such as a sports leather steering wheel, foglamps, automatic climate control, an on-board computer, a light package, a storage package and special velour floor mats in the style of the special-edition model.

This exclusive special edition will be available for the MINI Cooper Clubman, MINI Cooper S Clubman, MINI Cooper D Clubman and MINI Cooper SD Clubman. Production of the MINI Clubman Hampton will be limited to one year.

2011 MINI Cooper Matt Edition

MINI launched on the French market the MINI Cooper Matt Edition which will be sold in 250 units.

Dubbed the Matt Edition, the car features a matt black exterior wrap, checked mirror covers, unique side vents, and an individually-numbered key ring.

The new limited-edition will be available with all engines available across the standard lineup, including the 1.6-liter with 118 hp, the 1.6-liter turbo with 208 hp and the 1.6-liter diesel with 110 hp, as worldcarfans.com wrote.

To make the MINI even more customization, side vents and the inner insert receive a specific numbering and a numbered key ring specially created for the occasion will be given to each client.


Press Release

MINI Mat Edition : une s�rie limit�e � 250 exemplaires

Avec son look fun et ind�modable la nouvelle MINI va encore plus loin dans la personnalisation en proposant une nouvelle s�rie limit�e et num�rot�e appel�e � MINI Mat Edition �. Cette s�rie, de 250 exemplaires seulement, sera disponible exclusivement en France sur une courte p�riode. Plusieurs motorisations au choix : Cooper, Cooper D, Cooper S et John Cooper Works. Le coloris noir Mat conf�re � la MINI un design incroyable qui sera encore surlign� par les coques de r�troviseurs ext�rieurs et int�rieurs en damier et une antenne sport (plus courte). Pour rendre cette MINI encore plus personnalis�e, les ou�es lat�rales et l'insert int�rieur re�oivent une num�rotation sp�cifique et un porte-clefs num�rot� sp�cialement cr�� pour l'occasion sera remis � chaque client.

Le rendu Mat est obtenu par l'application d'un film sur la totalit� du v�hicule ce qui pr�sente l'avantage d'un entretien facile et la possibilit� de revenir � une teinte de carrosserie classique � tout moment. Le film Mat, garanti 2 ans, et les �quipements composant cette s�rie limit�e seront propos�s � un tarif client de 2800� TTC suppl�mentaires.

La � MINI Mat Edition � sera disponible � partir du 21.01.11 et pourra �tre d�couverte en exclusivit� dans les MINI Stores de France lors des journ�es portes-ouvertes du 22.01.11. Elle fera par ailleurs l'objet d'un plan de communication muscl� en ce d�but d'ann�e avec notamment une campagne d'affichage (plus de 10.300 panneaux au niveau national en janvier) et un dispositif Internet sp�cifique.

Retrouvez l'ensemble des informations de la marque MINI sur : www.MINI.fr

Mini Clubman Cooper S Streetworker

A new modification package targeting the MINI Clubman Cooper S is being previewed by Schmidt Revolution. The German company, which handles alloy rims as a core business, takes its time to release complete modification projects once in a while, with this kit, which uses the Streetworker name, being the newest offer of this kind.

The focus point of the tune is of course the German firm�s new Cirrus alloy wheel series, seen here in an 18-inch version. The funky looking rims can be ordered in any color ranging from the matte blue on this tune to any other tint including carbon black. On the MINI Clubman project car the alloy wheels are shod in 215/35R18 Continental rubber.

The body has been repainted and color coordinated in a way only people who live and breath neon lighting would understand. Then there�s the underpinnings. The engine now produces 200 horsepower and 250 NM of peak torque.

Under the hood, the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine has been tuned to produce 200 hp (149 kW / 203 PS) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the car to hit a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph).





Press Release

The STREETWORKER from Schmidt Revolution

In a kind of competition from the Fiat 500, the Toyota IQ and others in its class, the Mini Cooper Clubman S prevailed with style and passion. In fact, the Schmidt Revolution, wheel manufacturer from Bad Segeberg, had taken on the task of providing a concept car with Urban Lifestyle tuning. With its Clubdoor, the engine and the concept of space, it is practically the perfect choice for this task.

The "genetically engineered" Mini, already equipped with a John Cooper Works Aerodynamic package, has been purchased in March 2010. With black xenon lamps including daytime running lights and after a performance increase to 200 hp and torque of 250 Nm - these two parameters allow the Clubman to reach a maximum speed of 220 km/h - the car is ready for city travel, at least for trips around the church tower.

The colors still harbored some problems in it, should the Mini yet actually be equipped with chrome foil. Rethinking was not easy for the men from A4M in Wuppertal; the BMW sprout has a matt blue car wrap, and then they returned back to immaculacy.
Street workers usually go a lot, so the "feet" and "shoes" require special attention The Cirrus wheels were decorated with colored multiplex material, so this fun car is never left unattended in city traffic. The really impressive 8Jx18H2 Cirrus rims have any of 3D-shaped multiplex patterns in matte blue; any tint of body color, from bright red to carbon black is possible at any style.

Cheap tires, causing annoying road noise, were changed with recapped 215/35R18 Conti tires, and the tire problem was solved. To allow for changing "obstacles" while impressive driving in city traffic, the concept car has a Streetec air suspension with press buttons which enables to adjust the height and make it 60 mm lower or 40 mm higher than the serial cars. The goal was to run over thresholds better and to park the Clubman easier.

Finally, it should also be mentioned that the spectacular rims are completely washable and thus are suitable for daily use.


So, that beautiful Urban Lifestyle can be a street worker...

MINI Paceman concept?Video?

Mini has revealed a new concept car ahead of the 2011 Detroit motor show. The Paceman Concept is billed as a �sports activity coupe�: think a smaller Range Rover Evoque or BMW X6.

The Mini Paceman Concept is based on the same ALL4 permanent all-wheel-drive platform as the Countryman crossover and also has the same dimensions. However, it cuts out two-doors, creating a largest tailgate than the Countryman.

Power is provided by the same 1.6 litre twin-scroll turbocharged engine found in the brand's John Cooper Works models, developing 155kW and 260Nm of torque.

The concept has a center-rail console like the one found in the four-door crossover, and accompanying bucket seats, while restyled interior door and trim panels use ovals to lend an impression of more interior space. The Paceman's dimensions are an overall length of 161.8 inches, 70.4 inches wide, and 60.7 inches wide.






Press Release

The first Sports Activity Coupe in the premium segment - and a MINI through and through.

World premiere of the new MINI Paceman Concept.

MINI is marking an important milestone in its history by once again presenting a fascinating new vehicle concept for the MINI family - the MINI Paceman Concept. Exactly 10 years ago, visitors to the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit witnessed the relaunch of the MINI brand in North America, which signalled the beginning of an unparalleled success story. And now the brand is also preparing to celebrate this landmark anniversary at the NAIAS - taking place from 10-23 January 2011 - with the world premiere of the MINI Paceman Concept. This spectacular study vehicle establishes a totally new category of car with its potential for providing even more driving fun and an even greater range of usage. The MINI Paceman Concept could become another building block in the ongoing development of the brand and its product portfolio.

The MINI Paceman Concept takes the fundamental strengths of MINI - its uniqueness, go-kart handling, agility, dynamic capability and individual design - and gives them a fresh twist with the help of cutting-edge technology and an innovative body concept. It combines a sporty, masculine appearance, versatility and coupe looks with the dimensions of the four-door MINI Countryman. And it brings together the classical MINI concept, the defining features of the MINI Countryman and the style of a coupe to harmonious effect. The result is a MINI with visual "muscle car" design cues, which displays its dynamic capability from every angle and showcases it impressively both when viewed from the side and in the design of the rear.

The MINI Paceman Concept, whose crossover design makes it the first Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) in the small car segment, blends lifestyle elements with premium quality. It is the ideal car for young, modern, extrovert urbanites who love the hallmark MINI go-kart feeling, enjoy stand-out individuality, place great importance on the personality of a brand and buy into its character and ethos. They are confident types, who live according to their own style and express their distinctive individuality in a MINI, who use the big-city mobility the MINI provides to embark on voyages of discovery through the urban jungle, and who experience driving fun in its most concentrated form thanks to the excellent ride comfort of the MINI both in everyday driving and over long journeys.

The masculine design language of the MINI Paceman Concept spotlights both the stand-alone identity of the concept and its membership of the MINI family. The four-seater study, whose two large doors and a wide-opening tailgate mark it out unmistakably as a MINI, imbues the sporty, cutting-edge Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) category with undeniable appeal. The platform of the MINI Countryman, with its hallmark MINI proportions, increased ground clearance and raised seating position, defines the study's compact dimensions.

Exterior: Sports Activity Coupe - urban and masculine.

The MINI Paceman Concept retains the familiar MINI family front end, but adds its own distinctive flavour. The large headlights with chrome surrounds extend far into the front wings and, together with the strikingly contoured bonnet, emphasise the imposing front end. The MINI Paceman Concept largely replicates the front grille design of the MINI Cooper S Countryman. However, additional intakes in the lower section of the front bumper ensure improved brake ventilation and combine with the study's deep-set foglamps to sharpen its sporting edge. The MINI Paceman Concept's fresh interpretation of the side scuttle at the transition from front wing to door houses both the side direction indicator and an air outlet. The side scuttle has a broad, sturdy-looking design and leads the eye from the A-pillar down towards the front wheel, making it an unmistakable, sporty, wheel-accentuating feature.

Large 19-inch wheels designed exclusively for the study car and dark wheel arch borders with side skirts highlighted in the same colour team up with the familiar MINI shoulder line rising up slightly towards the rear to underline the car's sporty and powerful appearance. The MINI Paceman Concept shows off its roof contours particularly effectively. The flat roofline runs horizontally from front to rear, where it flows into a wide, transparent-looking C-pillar. The windows appear to wrap around the car like a band of glass, with the "helmet roof" - in a strikingly contrasting colour - suspended on top. The coupe-specific windows taper as they extend to the rear, and combine with the slightly rising waistline to create a prominently dynamic wedge shape when viewed from the side. The classic MINI three-level split of roof, greenhouse and body is again clearly recognisable in this study vehicle.

"In contrast to the more vertical design of the MINI Countryman, we've given the MINI Paceman Concept a horizontal emphasis and accentuated the width of the car rather more," explains Marcus Syring, Head of MINI Exterior Design, to underline the powerful appearance of the study. The new interpretation of the traditional coupe values (the word "coupe" comes from the French "couper" meaning "to cut off") produces a new homogeneous coupe tail which retains the unique MINI charm. Powerful proportions and the muscular design of the vehicle flanks, with their broad rear wings, reinforce its unconventional, athletic impression.

The newly interpreted rear lights are positioned at the outer edges of the rear and underline the dominance of horizontal lines, which run parallel to one another and emphasise the wide track of the rear axle. As with the MINI Cooper S Countryman, the rear apron of the MINI Paceman Concept has a diffuser design. The airflow is channelled between the twin-tailpipe exhaust on the underbody section, further optimising the car's aerodynamic properties. Even the licence plate recess echoes the form of the air intake in the front bumper, forging a stylistic link between the front and rear of the car.

The four-seater car measures 4,110 millimetres in length, 1,789 millimetres in width and 1,541 millimetres in height. In telltale family style, the MINI Paceman Concept has extremely short overhangs, which lend particular emphasis to the car's athletic stature.

Interior: a blend of modern functionality and luxurious character.

The interior of the MINI Paceman Concept deliberately draws from the MINI design language, yet also comes across as refreshingly new. Behind the study's masculine exterior lies an elegant yet sporty core imbued with a premium sense of quality. The instrument panel of the MINI study is defined by its distinctive, concave forms and the sporty but functional impression it creates. Particularly large side air vents underline the character of the interior, which is defined by cutting-edge functionality. The central air vents, Centre Speedo and gearshift lever are given broad surrounds in a contrasting colour.

The slim centre console, which maximises legroom for the driver and front passenger, melts between the seats into the Centre Rail familiar from the MINI Countryman, creating a visual and functional link between the front and rear seats. This unique and innovative U-profile rail system runs through the middle of the passenger compartment back as far as the rear seat backrests. Light shades of leather pervade the interior of the MINI Paceman Concept and lend it an expressive, luxurious allure. The new interpretation of the brand's familiar elliptical door and side trim extends along the length of the cabin, taking in the B-pillar and emphasising the length of the interior. At the same time, the communicative and communal character of MINI cars is clearly highlighted. Embedded in the elliptical main element are the shaped armrests with large stowage compartments, ergonomically designed door pulls and the speakers for the sound system. Behind the sports seats are two comfortable individual seats, whose backrests merge boldly into side sections to create fully contoured supports. The "lounge" character that this creates underlines the individual, unconventional appearance of the study car and turns every journey into an experience for the rear passengers, as well as those in the front.

Drive system: powerful and efficient.

Both from a space point of view and in its chassis set-up, the MINI Paceman Concept has been designed to allow the most powerful drive unit currently available for a MINI to be fitted under the bonnet. The MINI John Cooper Works 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged engine gives the MINI Paceman Concept the means to achieve top-class levels of sports performance. The four-cylinder unit develops 155 kW/211 hp and generates maximum torque of 260 Nm (192 lb-ft), which can be increased to as much as 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) in brief bursts thanks to the Overboost function.

Its MINI Countryman roots give the MINI concept study an ideal platform for the optionally available MINI ALL4 permanent all-wheel-drive system. This features an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive which varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles. In normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the drive is sent to the rear wheels, in extreme situations as much as 100 per cent. Harnessing the power of the brawny four-cylinder engines, in all-wheel-drive form the MINI Paceman Concept would offer an extra dose of driving fun through a traction-led, sporty expression of the agile handling for which MINI is famed.

Chassis: the best handling characteristics in the segment.

MINI chassis technology has been further developed for the MINI Paceman Concept to turn the potential of the extremely powerful engines - safely and with impressive poise - into inspiring agility. Precise, sporty handling and excellent ride comfort set the MINI Paceman Concept apart. That is down not least to the go-kart feeling typical of the brand. The front axle features MacPherson spring struts with lower track control arms, while Electric Power Steering with speed-sensitive power assistance plays a major role in giving the SAC the agility customers expect of the brand. The multi-link rear axle was developed on the back of BMW Group chassis expertise and is designed for use in both the front-wheel-drive and the ALL4 all-wheel-drive versions of the car.

MINI Paceman Concept: an idea ahead of the game - once again.

The MINI Paceman Concept embodies the idea of an incomparable driving experience in a way that meets the needs of a modern, lifestyle-oriented target group but also stays true to the character of the brand.

With the MINI Countryman having already opened up a fascinating new avenue in the expansion of the brand family, the designers are now tapping into the potential of its state-of-the-art drive technology and flexible space concept once again to develop additional usage options in a coupe sibling. The MINI Paceman Concept prioritises a particularly emotional driving experience and demonstrates this ability in a style typical of the brand. Here you can find clear evidence of how totally new vehicle concepts can still be developed today through unconventional creativity.

CORGI MINI MANIA - MIGHTY MINIS RACING - JOHN KIRBY

This racing Minis certainly make for a colourful display, and this is no exception. As always, the tampo printing is superb. Shop here

X-Raid MINI ALL4 Racing revealed for Dakar

The German off-road X-raid Team has just announced it will run the new MINI All4 Racing car in the annual Dakar Rally, which now runs in South America, rather than on the traditional continent of Africa, due to security concerns.

The project was first discussed in 2009 and the competitive debut of MINI All4 Racing will be in the hands of the French rally crew of Guerlain Chicherit and co-driver Michel P�rin in January�s 33rd Personal Dakar Argentina-Chile.

The new Dakar racer is powered by the same twin-turbo diesel engine as in the 2011-specification BMW X3 CC, developing 315 PS (232 kW) and 710 Nm of torque. The MINI All4 will replace an outgoing 2010 BMW X3CC.

The Mini benefits from larger air intakes, a one-piece bonnet and a revised and improved ventilation system using a front air intake and a roof intake. Visibility inside the Mini All4 Racing is not on a par with the BMW X3 CC and entry and exit of the vehicle for the occupants is slightly more difficult, but Quandt is delighted with general improvements nonetheless.

The skin of the Mini, for example, can be changed within less than 30 minutes. The BMW X3 CC was developed over a period of five years and all this development has been utilised by the "Mini All4 Racing". The new car runs fully within the 2010 regulations and should be competitive from the outset.


Press Release

MONSTER ENERGY X-RAID TEAM UNVEILS MINI ALL4 RACING FOR WORLD DEBUT ON GRUELLING 2011 DAKAR RALLY IN SOUTH AMERICA

• New MINI All4 Racing unveiled after 90 days from start of project

• Chicherit and P�rin set to drive new MINI All4 Racing

• Magna-Steyr, Heggemann and Faster boost MINI project

• T�V Rheinland to support Monster Energy X-raid Team

TREBUR (Germany) - The X-raid Team unveiled an exciting new cross-country motor sport programme to run and develop the MINI All4 Racing in international competition.

The project was first discussed in the summer of 2009 and the competitive debut of the new MINI All4 Racing will be in the hands of the French rally crew of Guerlain Chicherit and co-driver Michel P�rin in January's 33rd Personal Dakar Argentina-Chile. The event starts in Buenos Aires on New Year's Day and finishes in the Argentine capital on Sunday, January 16th, 2011.

The new MINI All4 Racing will form part of X-raid's seven-car Dakar team - the largest ever entered by a team in the 33-year history of the world's most famous off-road rally - and the third of three vehicles running on the event under the Monster Energy X-raid Team banner.

X-raid team director Sven Quandt began looking at the feasibility of the project in 2009 and held initial discussions with automotive engineering and manufacturing company Magna Steyr and BMW to see whether the new model was a realistic replacement for the BMW/MINI X3 CC - which has earned the

Trebur-based team three successive FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rally titles since 2008.

Quandt received the green light for the new project from BMW in June 2010 and Magna Steyr gave their full approval on September 24th. Initial plans for the new project were discussed at length throughout October in Graz, Austria.

The MINI Design team and Magna have managed the design of the vehicle. Quandt and engineer Martin Ertl, a former X-raid staff engineer who also manages a Formula 3 racing team, have overseen the new project on behalf of X-raid.

Construction of the new MINI All4 Racing cross-country rally car began in November and has continued into December. The car will be put through a first series of tests in France on December 13/14th. It will then be transported by airfreight to South America for final preparations for scrutineering in Buenos Aires at the end of the month.

The MINI will be powered by variable twin-turbo diesel engine that is fitted to the 2011-specification BMW X3 CC and built in Steyr the same place as the MINI and BMW diesel engines are made. The power unit delivers in the region of 315hp and 710Nm of torque. This is an increase compared to the output of the 2010-specification BMW X3 CCs used on the Dakar Rally to seal fourth and fifth places last January.

"This is a major development in cross-country rallying and something of which we are very excited," admitted Quandt. "There has been a very short time between the decision to go ahead and the roll out for the next Dakar, but we are confident that the new MINI All4 Racing will be competitive out of the �box.
www.x-raid.de
"Compared to the BMW X3CC, the MINI will be characterised by improved handling as the overall length is shorter and it is lower. We have also been able to improve on many other smaller details, such as the relocation of smaller components to lower the centre of gravity."

The MINI benefits from larger air intakes, a one-piece bonnet and a revised and improved ventilation system using a front air intake and a roof intake. Visibility inside the MINI All4 Racing is not on a par with the BMW X3 CC and entry and exit of the vehicle for the occupants is slightly more difficult, but Quandt is delighted with general improvements nonetheless.

Quandt confirms that the MINI All4 Racing is 10 cm shorter than the BMW X3 CC, about 3 cm lower than its predecessor and has a 10 cm reduced rear overhang when compared to the BMW.

Magna Steyr under the project lead of Hermann Pecnik has been responsible for concept design, the technical drawings and calculations, as well as the production data and compliance with stringent FIA regulations governing cross-country motor sport

The frame and chassis components were designed by B�ren-based Heggemann Autosport GmbH and Faster worked on the complete carbon-kevlar body and provided Magna-Steyr with assistance on the construction of the MINI.

Quandt reckons that the MINI All4 Racing is more service friendly than the X3 CC, as all the body panels can be removed within minutes to give easier access to important mechanical components. The skin of the MINI, for example, can be changed within less than 30 minutes.

The BMW X3 CC was developed over a period of five years and all this development has been utilised by the MINI All4 Racing. The new car runs fully within the 2010 regulations and should be competitive from the outset.

The X-raid team has also confirmed that T�V Rheinland is to support the three-car Monster Energy X-raid Team entries for Chicherit, St�phane Peterhansel and Portugal's Ricardo Leal De Santos on the 33rd Personal Dakar Argentina-Chile. Colognebased T�V Rheinland is a leading global provider of technical, testing and assessment services, has 490 locations in 61 countries and a workforce of 14,500. The company has a long history in the automotive industry and is further leading in automobile inspection, a service provided as well in Germany as in Chile, Argentina, Spain, France and Lituvia.

"The X-raid concept of the MINI fits very good to T�V Rheinland, therefore we are glad to support the team in the 2011 Dakar. A lot of our 2,000 staff members in South America are highly interested in the Dakar", says Caio da Silva, T�V Rheinland Chief Regional Officer South America.

The BMW X-raid team's vast array of equipment is now making its way to South America to arrive in good time for scrutineering and documentation in Buenos Aires on December 30th-31st.

Seven race cars, two race trucks (one MAN and a Kamaz), eight service trucks, six assistance vehicles, two press cars and a team of around 80 people make X-raid's challenge for honours in the 2011 Dakar Rally the biggest in the team's history.

VANGUARDS 1/43 MORRIS MINI - 45th ANNIVERSARY

The Mini was first produced in 1959 and was was so successful production of the car lasted until 1999 and although the car was updated, the general look of the Mini changed very little during it's 40 years of production. In total over 5,300,000 were produced.

Celebrating the 45th anniversary of this venerable motor, Vanguards issues a maroon model with black roof inlay in its BMC/British Leyland Collection. Side and rear views appear convincing, if somewhat squat, but we are unconvinced about the front view. Shop here

MINI E Police Car

The AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper Police is based on the MINI E - the electric version of the model - and was premiered at the 2010 Essen Motor Show.

The BMW MINI E is an all-electric car that is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp with 162 lb-ft of torque. The battery can be fully charged through a standard outlet in about eight hours. But there is also a higher amperage charger available that will be installed in the customer�s garage enabling a full recharge in just 2.5 hours. BMW claims that the lithium-ion battery has an estimated driving range of 150 miles, and that is plenty to get around town all day. In acceleration, the MINI E can sprint from 0-62 mph in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 95 mph.

The vehicle is part of the Verband Deutscher Automobil Tuner�s. (VDAT) TUNE IT SAFE! project, being the sixth release of the campaign, which aims to combine high tuning standards with a maximum safety level.

Dressed up in police guise, the car features modified fascias, aerodynamic side skirts, a ventilated hood, and 18-inch alloy wheels with Hankook tires. Inside, the cabin boasts blue trim, aluminum pedals and custom floor mats.

Interior upgrades includes traditional AC Schnitzer aluminum pedals, footrest and e-brake handle. All of these modifications are currently (or soon-to-be) available for any of the MINI models.




Press Release

Two strong partners for the future: the Electric MINI and AC Schnitzer

MINI Tuning Specialist supports the initiative: "TUNE IT! SAFE!" by the VDAT by kitting out the emission-free concept car

The TUNE IT! SAFE! initiative by the Verband Deutscher Automobil Tuner e.V. (VDAT) impressively shows the future of tuning with its sixth campaign vehicle - an electric MINI in Police Look. Every year since 2004, a special concept car has been presented which meets both the high demands of tuning fans and maximum safety standards.

The campaign, supported by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development, shows that the yearning for individualisation can continue to be met in the future.

AC Schnitzer, more than almost any other tuning specialist for the MINI brand, stands for individuality and safety. Consequently, the Aachen-based company has largely taken responsibility for the MINI and provided a uniquely spectacular campaign vehicle. The MINI E in Police Look was presented for the first time at the Essen Motor Show 2010 and has since appeared as a symbolic vehicle at numerous shows and tuning events.

The BMW Group is the first manufacturer to apply the latest state of lithium ion technology in a totally electric powered vehicle. So the MINI E lives up to its name - "minimalism" - in terms of drive technology too, thanks to a totally emission-free vehicle. New drive systems have been equipped with complex elements, so the use of safe and reliable products is particularly important here. But there's no lack of sporting performance either, thanks to the tuning package from

AC Schnitzer. The racing suspension takes the MINI perfectly through corners, and the front and rear skirts and bonnet vents both optimise road holding and enhance the styling of the concept car.

The "Police Look" is provided by the latest signalling system from Hella on the roof, and the blue paintwork by AC Schnitzer in conjunction with special stickering from Foliatec.

The Hankook tyres have been given an extra touch by the specialists at AC Schnitzer: in combination with the AC Schnitzer alloy wheels "MI 2" (7.5J x 18"), they transfer the 204 electric HP of the MINI safely to the road.
To enjoy unrestricted driving comfort while being prepared for every situation: this ambition is achieved by the high performance brake system from AC Schnitzer with 4-pot fixed calipers on the front axle. The slotted, internally vented brake discs respond promptly and with precision. At the same time, the high performance brake system is characterised by excellent deceleration values after sustained use, in extreme heat and in the pouring rain. The generously dimensioned discs at 328 x 28 millimetres energetically scrub off the speed with a stable pressure point even after the twentieth downhill hairpin.

AC Schnitzer also shows that safe driving can be combined with individual styling in its design of the interior equipment. The interior is decorated with a pedal set, foot rest and handbrake handle of aluminium. Here, as in all other areas, extracts from AC Schnitzer's wide product range are demonstrated. All the AC Schnitzer accessories are available immediately with T�V certification, even though the MINI E is not yet available commercially but is well on the way to series production. This almost goes without saying for specialists who have long since made the safe future of tuning their corporate objective.