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MINI X PAUL SMITH.
DISCOVER THE COLLABORATION DRIVEN BY SUSTAINABILITY.
The MINI STRIP, co-created by iconic British designer Paul Smith, premiered in London on 12th August 2021.
Inspired by the theme of ‘Simplicity, Transparency, Sustainability’, the vehicle showcases ways to make automotive design more sustainable. As the name suggests, the process began by completely stripping down a three-door MINI Cooper SE and reducing it to its structural essence. Only the elements that were absolutely necessary were then included – with sustainability firmly in the driving seat.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to rethink the iconic MINI,” explains Paul Smith. “I know and love the existing car, but by respecting the past and looking to the future we have created something very special. I feel very privileged that the MINI team have given me the confidence and freedom to think laterally about the approach to the design of the car. Together I think we have created something truly unique, by going back to basics, reducing things down and stripping the car.”
The car’s exterior boasts a unique aesthetic, with raw materials a deliberate part of its design. This means the body has been left in its unfinished, unpainted state with just a thin transparent film to protect against corrosion.
Grinding marks from the factory have been consciously left intact on the galvanised steel panels to identify the car as a functional object and robust companion for everyday life. This intentionally rough-hewn effect has been dubbed “the perfect imperfection” by Paul Smith.
“The MINI STRIP shows in an impressive way that MINI and Paul Smith share the same bold way of thinking about the future in terms of innovation and design”, explains Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design.
Recycled Perspex was used for the grille trim, wheel covers, and large panoramic roof.
Opening the doors reveals the signature Paul Smith stripes.
The MINI STRIP has been radically stripped back on the inside. All trim parts have been purposefully omitted (with the exception of the dashboard, topper pad, and parcel shelf), turning the bodyshell into the dominant visual feature of the cabin.
The driver’s smartphone is placed where the centre display would normally be. It connects automatically to the car, becoming the media control centre. The only physical controls in the interior are located lower down, where the window switches and the start/stop function can be found.
The interior is completely free of both leather and chrome, with seats upholstered in a knitted fabric. The completely mono-material means they are fully recyclable, while the floor mats are made from recycled rubber.
The interior door handles are made from climbing rope and, together with the matching seat belts, liven up the interior with their bright orange finish.