MINI Vision Urbanaut: the physical version of the concept model debuts on 1 July

It was only a few months ago that MINI presented a rather innovative vehicle. A people carrier designed for comfortable journeys, as if it were the living room of your home. This prototype is called MINI Vision Urbanaut and it was presented as a digital vehicle that could only be seen on screens. A groundbreaking and novel design, but with no possibility of being driven, since it was nothing more than a digital design.

But that model has made the leap into the real world and has now acquired volume and a physical form. It will be presented to the public on 1 July, when we will be able to see it in its final appearance. For the time being, it is the physical representation of an electric people carrier that will not, for now, go into production.

A futuristic van that previews MINI’s new developments

It will certainly not be a van that reaches buyers’ garages, but some of its features will indeed make their way into production models. In principle, the physical vehicle looks very much like the digital model presented in November. Among the features of this model are a single side door and a glass roof.

The illuminated wheels, the minimalist fascia and a windscreen that can be raised to leave the cabin exposed are other of its particularities. It is precisely in the interior that MINI’s designers have worked to give this vehicle characteristics that will indeed be reflected in other models.

The interior has a very futuristic and comfortable look. Although, it must be said, not very practical for travelling. Its look of a homely living room, complete with a potted plant, makes it a very attractive but hardly usable concept car. The driver’s seat is designer-styled and can swivel to face the passengers in the rear. Next to it, the front passenger seat is minimalist, and the rear bench can be converted into a bed.

The interior does, however, include elements that will be introduced in future MINIs. The absence of leather and chrome trim is offset by fabrics made from renewable and recycled materials, such as wool, polyester and Tencel. There are also materials such as cork, which covers several areas of the interior space.

There are three modes of use for the MINI Vision Urbanaut. In Chill mode, the interior is conceived as a place of relaxation, with specific music and lighting. Vibe mode turns it into a discotheque, with more dynamic lights, and if you want to drive, you must activate Wanderlust mode. This mode deploys the steering wheel and pedals and turns it into what it is: a people carrier for driving.

When it is presented on 1 July we will learn more about this model and find out which other features will become common features of MINI models.