2011 MINI Rocketman Concept

At the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show this March, MINI will present Rocketman Concept. It is “3 + 1 seater” with exterior dimensions that closely emulate the original Mini of 1959. The one-off concept is 3,419 mm (11 ft. 3 in.) long, 1,907 mm (6 ft. 3 in.) wide and 1,398 mm(4 ft. 7 in.) tall. It sits on a carbon spaceframe underbody that is left visible in some parts of the exterior and cabin.

The Rocketman Concept’s exterior has features such as LED head- and taillights, 18-inch wheels, a split-tailgate and illuminated roof braces that imitate the Union Jack.

2011 MINI Rocketman Concept also uses creative design and innovative technical solutions to open up new layout options for the luggage area. 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.

While in interior there are three permanent seats and one fold-down number for short journeys. The permanent ones are on rails to maximise interior space and the instrument cluster moves backwards and forwards with the driver. MINI’s trademark Centre Speedo makes its customary appearance, albeit this time offering high-resolution 3-D graphics, in-car internet and a detachable hard drive that can be taken anywhere. A trackball on the steering wheel replaces the iDrive-esque unit on current model MINIs.