Mini shows one EV future with innovative Vision Urbanaut concept

Minis have always been about space utilization and their new Vision Urbanaut concept takes the uses of space to a new level. The four-seat interior comes in varying modes aka "Mini Moments" like Chill, Wanderlust, and Vibe with varying uses of the "Cozy Corner" rear seating area. The driver's front area can be converted to a daybed and the instrument cluster folds down into a table. Camping (or is it glamping) anyone? The Urbanaut's footprint is very Mini-esque with a much taller greenhouse than any other Mini model. Interesting touches include front and rear lamps that change from their normal "working" colors to various images, a new interpretation of the Mini grille that houses sensors for autonomous driving, etc,. and the versatile interior. The body-color shading of the glass is very nice and could become the new dark-tinted rear windows. The concept's wheels draw upon the look of skateboard wheels and are unique with clear centers that color change with the Mini Moment selected. Don't see that one making production due to cost and regulations. The hinged windshield is really unnecessary. The single side door entry is interesting. So what could eventually see production? The overall shape and size of the Urbanaut is similar to VW's upcoming iD Buzz reinterpretation of the classic VW van from the 60's. The Urbanaut utilizes an existing BMW/Mini EV platform and the Cozy Corner hoop could provide crash protection and structural strength to offset the large glass area. The reconfigurable four-seat interior (with single door entry) could see production in some form and the digital exterior lights are a possible next step in lighting. As mentioned before, the glass gradient is nice and wouldn't overly restrict the outside view (see bus and building wraps, etc.).  So there is a lot going on with the Mini Vision Urbanaut that shows possible future directions of automotive design, execution, and usage. The question is, "How quickly could Mini get the Urbanaut into production without overly watering down the concept's flavor? We shall see. Interesting though. For lots more info and pics, not to mention the introduction video (after the release), click on the "read more" jump. Enjoy! Oh yeah, add bumpers...and rear-view cameras...

Source: Mini - Media release, intro video (after the media release), and pics