Cars are primarily being developed as a practical means of transport. At Mini, people believe that cars in the future can be much more than just a means to an end.
The BMW subsidiary Mini has given thought to the car of the future. The result was the virtual study “Vision Urbanaut” - a compact van that can be used not only as a classic means of transport with autonomous driving skills, but also as a living room to go. With a series of new ideas, the urbanaut could fundamentally redefine the use of the automobile.
One door - three mini moments
Outwardly, the concept looks like a futuristic compact van, whose almost four and a half meter long body should offer a generous interior. In order to be able to provide as much floor space as possible inside, the wheels have been moved into the outer corners. The only entry is a central sliding door on the right-hand side of the vehicle.
Three usage scenarios - so-called mini moments - were defined for the concept. "Wanderlust" is the name of the driving mode in which the driver assumes a classic position. The vehicle can either drive completely autonomously or, alternatively, be steered by the driver. If he feels this need, the previously hidden steering wheel is extended. The drive is purely electric, Mini does not provide any information on the engine, power or range. The Urbanaut is primarily intended for use in urban areas, but the vehicle should also be suitable for long journeys.
Once the compact van is up and running, the user can choose between Chill or Vibe. Chill turns the Mini into a place of retreat where the user can work or relax. Vibe is designed to use the van as a living room together with guests. In contrast to what is currently customary in car construction, the textile landscape of the Urbanaut dispenses with chrome and leather. Instead, sustainable and, at the same time, long-lasting materials are being considered for the interior. A special feature is the hinged front window. The resulting "street balcony" creates a generous feeling of space and also enables interaction with the outside world. Basically, the Urbaunaut should also react to its direct environment and, for example, adapt the interior ambience to the external conditions, so that both worlds merge. Among other things, the driver's seat can be turned towards the rear, which allows guests to sit across from each other. If the dashboard is lowered, there is also a lying area in the front area. The rear seat with its arched back seat covered with knitted textiles can be used as a sofa or lounger. There is also a small glass showcase in the C-pillar. There is also a table area with a plant in the middle.
The very latest technology
The table also serves as a shelf for a mobile operating unit - a circular hand flatterer with display. The user's personal vehicle settings or his music are also stored here. In principle, personalized mini-moments can also be saved on the mobile device, which allow the user to pre-define favorite scenarios consisting of light, fragrance and music. Thanks to Shy Technology, display and control elements are only visible when needed. It goes without saying that the vehicle is networked, which results in many options for media use and communication.
The outer skin is determined by a clear and tidy design. The Urbanaut actually has nothing in common with the brand's current design language. Only the variable light graphics on the front and rear can create a kind of mini identity, for example with the virtual representation of mini-like front lights and grille. In addition, dynamic lighting should also allow communication with the outside world. This can also be the case with the wheels, which are transparent from the outside and illuminated from the inside.