MINI’s Geneva Motor Show Rocketman concept car is about as far removed from the original Mini as you can get.
The cutting-edge 3+1 seater uses carbon spaceframe construction and three wide-opening double-hinge doors while retaining the traditional MINI body shape (it’s still only 3.4-metres long).
Two, long side doors pivot outwards like aircraft doors to provide access to the spacious interior.
Inside three seats slide for and aft so, when used as a two-seater, the MINI Rocketman’s driver and front passenger enjoy plenty of space. When a rear seat passenger comes along, the front passenger simply slides their seat forwards (to provide legroom similar to the current MINI).
MINI Rocketman’s fourth seat is fixed but can be folded flat for luggage storage.
The tailgate is a two-part split design with the upper segment attached to the roof while the lower component actually slides outwards to grow cargo space even when the MINI Rocketman is fully loaded with passengers. This lower section can be locked into various positions according to the cargo volume.
Another innovation is the use of a ‘trackball’ on the steering wheel spoke which (like a computer) is used top operate most of the usual functions currently governed by switches or joysticks. There is also a removable control unit which offers computer connectivity for remote uploading of navigation and music files.
MINI says the Rocketman concept offers a glimpse into the future of urban mobility.
