Vision Urbanaut previews future Mini interiors

MANILA: Following its global debut in Munich earlier this year, the Mini Vision Urbanaut concept vehicle made its North American debut at Space by BMW in Los Angeles.

Mini said the Vision Urbanaut concept showcases "sustainable use of materials" as well as "creative use of space," both qualities that will be seen in future Mini models. This concept vehicle was created without using leather or chrome. 

Space by BMW is a gallery-inspired exhibit where the German carmaker is presenting its latest developments in performance, innovation, and design. As BMW owns Mini, the BMW EVs and the Vision Urbanaut, which is also an EV, are on display at Space. 

Mini said the Vision Urbanaut’s design looks to enhance drivers' experience behind the wheel with what it calls "Mini Moments."

The "Chill" moment invites the passengers to pause, as the rear seat bench folds for various seating and lying positions, and the backlit Loop above it takes on an appearance inspired by a green forest canopy.

In the middle of the cabin, a table lamp will appear, eliminating displays or switches that might remind the occupants of their automotive surroundings, Mini said.

In "Wanderlust" moment, the Vision Urbanaut is being driven or is driving with automated driving functions. When the occupant wants to drive the Vision Urbanaut themselves, a tap of a finger on the Mini logo brings out the steering wheel and pedals.

The user interface on the central circular instrument also changes: alongside an animation of the route, additional journey information, such as visitor attractions and arrival time, is displayed here for those on board.

The "Vibe" moment opens the side door and folds up the windscreen to  "blur the boundaries between the outside and inside."

The central circular instrument becomes a media control center. An animation of graphic equalizers moving with the music is projected onto surfaces of the front, rear, wheels, and above the rear seat bench to create a club atmosphere.

The Vision Urbanaut's fourth option, “My Moment,” allows users to configure what kind of moment he or she desires.

“At Mini Design we believe that the best way to understand the overall concept behind the Vision Urbanaut is to experience it," Head of Mini Design Oliver Heilmer announced. 

"The feeling of space and the innovative materials are just asking to be explored. That is why it was very important for us from the outset to also make a physical model of the  Vision Urbanaut.

 “And now that moment has come. We have planned and built every aspect of the model,  which allows people to experience all of the facets of the Vision Urbanaut, at our Design Studio in Munich," Heilmer concluded. 

Photos from Mini

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