Mini recently revealed the Aceman, their new EV concept crossover that looks to influence future Mini generations. Rather than acting as a technical showcase, Mini has used this reveal as an opportunity to show us where the manufacturer’s design language is headed.
The Concept Aceman provides an insight into how Mini is adjusting itself for an all-electric future, illustrating a new generational direction for the brand. It teases a completely new type of Mini that looks to be a halfway point between the Mini Hatch and the Mini Countryman, offering a compact electric crossover design.
Mini’s new concept is 1.99m wide, 4.05m long and 1.59m tall. It’s a two-box configuration with short overhangs, constructed to take up minimal surface area. In a bid to promote a minimalist aesthetic, Mini has completely removed all chrome elements including the door handles and the trim that we’ve seen in earlier Minis.
This pursuit for minimalism continues at the front of the Aceman, where we see the greatest divergence from Mini’s current design language. Like the Countryman, the classic circular headlights are replaced with a sharper, more angular pair. These sit on either side of a prominent octagonal frame grille that’s illuminated turquoise.
The interior aims to tap into innovative new technologies whilst still respecting traditional Mini design. The Aceman’s gently curved surfaces and large panoramic glass roof look to create a spacious ambience that doesn’t feel overbearing or invasive. The dashboard has a knitted textile surface and is distinctly flat in design. Mini is keen to point out that the dashboard is styled like a soundbar, which we take as an effort to hammer home the Aceman’s homely design ambitions.
A circular OLED display positioned at the centre of the dashboard combines all the functions of the instrument cluster. Beneath the display sits a toggle switch bar, which operates several functions including gear selection and the parking brake. This mix of digital and analogue functionality is Mini’s approach to pursuing innovation whilst preserving heritage and originality.
Whilst the technical specifications for Mini’s new concept vehicle have not yet been revealed, details (albeit limited) regarding the use of a new EV platform suggest that two battery sizes may be offered. The new EV platform will also facilitate more interior space, further contributing to the homely atmosphere that Mini is trying to cultivate with this concept.
When the door is opened, riders will be on the receiving end of light shows, musical sequences, and audio greetings, akin to a sort of social gathering. As exciting as this sounds, let’s hope there’s also an off switch!
It will be interesting to see how much of the Aceman Mini decides to take into their future releases.
The Mini Concept Aceman will be present for all to see in late August at Gamescom 2022, Cologne.
Images: https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/detail/T0402279EN/the-mini concept-aceman:-the-first-all-electric-crossover-model-in-the-new-mini-family
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