Mini is embarking on an overhaul of its current line-up and is feverishly working on all-electric versions of the next-generation Cooper and Countryman. As part of its new development push, it is also adopting a new design philosophy dubbed Charismatic Simplicity and the new electric models will share a handful of important commonalities.
Found within the cabin of the new electric Mini models will be the brand’s iconic central instrument cluster but it will now consist entirely of a large OLED display. This display will have a diameter of 240 mm (9.4 inches) and combine all the functions of the infotainment system and the instrument cluster. The British carmaker notes the screen will have a frameless design and also houses a new minimalistic user interface.
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Mini has also spent considerable time overhauling the steering wheel of its next-generation family of models. The standard version of this wheel has two spokes while an optional wheel with a third spoke complete with a fabric finish will also be available. In addition, Mini will offer the Cooper EV and Countryman EV with revised seats available with plenty of new colors and patterns, including a houndstooth pattern. Armrests have also been incorporated into the seats for the first time while Vibrant Silver will also be a striking accent found throughout the new interiors.
The new Charismatic Simplicity design language has also resulted in redesigned light alloy wheels. These wheels have wide, outward-pointing spokes that Mini says contribute to improving aerodynamics and help to boost range.
“With our new Charismatic Simplicity design language, we are completely rethinking the iconic MINI,” head of Mini Design Oliver Heilmer said. “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.”
