love:mini

MINI Halloween

2011-10-31T13:19:00.000Z

MINI celebrates this Halloween with yet another tongue-in-cheek stunt by dressing up four MINIs, in typical Halloween costume party-style, just for the spooky occasion.

MINI gifts for Christmas 2011

2011-10-27T11:45:00.001+01:00

MINI has released its list of gifts available for fanatics to consider for their loved ones this Christmas. Whilst a number of the products are the same as last year, there are a few new items to look at as stocking fillers - although the suggested MINI Goodwood at around £40k, might be only for those who tend to pay in 50's not fivers.

There's plenty more to browse through at the MINI Shop, so see if there's anything that takes your fancy and add it to your wishlist!

SHOW REPORT: Minis on the wRECk 2011

2011-08-04T15:07:00.004+01:00

Minis on the Rec had been on our schedule of events to attend for a while, but following the poor weather at Bristol and Beaulieu, and considering the 140-mile journey to the showground and £60 budget, it was forgivable that I was having second thoughts about making the effort. However, as Saturday arrived and the sun shone, there was a breeze of optimism in air and my mate, Mike, and I decided to set off early to see if anyone was camping overnight.

With no particular need to rush we cut across Wiltshire towards Andover and then through Petersfield and Petford, stopping at a signposted 12th Century church for a quick break before heading into Shoreham by Sea to the showground.

As it turned 9.30pm the venue was dark and bleak, leaving the camping option looking like a bad idea. Fortunately my dad lives just up the road, so we were hopeful of crashing there if necessary. With dinner and a few beers on our mind we checked out the town and found that Domino's Pizza was offering any size pizza for just £7.99 - result! But by the time we'd negotiated an overnight stay at my dad's the local village pubs had shut so we settled for chilling in the back garden with some beers until the wee hours.

Karting was just one activity to keep the kids entertained.

Morning Blaze

In the morning the blazing sunshine had returned and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. As we arrived at the Rec you could see it was a hive of activity with bouncy castles, Minis and other classic cars visible to passing traffic. As we parked up we were invited to enter the show 'n' shine. Well, we all know my Bruce isn't the shiniest example in the world and his paintwork needs some serious attention, but we said 'what the hell, let's see what happens'. At this point we're told there is an award for the Wreck of the Show - so we felt pretty positive Bruce would be in with a chance of winning it given the quality of the other cars in attendance. The trophies produced by club member Tom Grindall are excellent. They're made from old Mini parts (and sometimes other car's parts) welded together as an artwork and painted gold. I'd love to surprise my wife with one of those, demanding it be placed on the living room mantelpiece - she'd kill me! Haha!


Supercharged sexiness.

Having attended Minis on the Rec in 2007 and 2008, I had a fair idea of what to expect, but this year they had opened the show up to include other classic cars and a selection of high performance modern cars, as well as drop the entry fee. This, coupled with the stunning weather, allowed for curious passers-by to pop in and show their interest.

Fun for all
The bouncy castle and go-karts kept the kids entertained, but disappointed Mike and I as we were too big to have a go, but there was a falconry display where adults, and kids, could see, touch, hold and learn about a variety of birds of prey. Just around the corner we found a r/c car race track which was holding a meet, and we were able to watch some super-fast r/c car racing - which was a first for me and very exciting, especially when the r/c Minis came out!

Back at the show I found some headlight rims in the autojumble and picked them up for £2. I had previously lost one after coming back from Slarks in June. There were a handful of other traders and a selection of food stands including some fresh Thai food. The burger stand had completely sold out of all stock by about 3pm perhaps illustrating how many people turned up. As I saw the show 'n' shine judges start their rounds, I gently nudged them in the direction of Bruce - his first ever assessment under my guardianship.

R/C car racing was taking place just over the hill.

We bumped in the social legend Barry Tilbury at the LSMOC stand, and he'd managed to bring down two of his famous Minis - the NYC Mini taxi and the Scooby Doo Mystery Machine, as well as mercilessly stickering a load of Minis with details of 2012's London to Brighton Run.


Fiat X1/9s were amongst other classics that turned up.

The Matt Black Mini of Martin Power caught our eye and he was more than keen to start it up and flip the sparkplug switch he'd fitted into his exhaust and belt out some flames from the exit. As noisy and impressive as it was, the prolonged heat melted the rubber exhaust bushes leaving a nice mess for him to clear up later.

The West Sussex Mini Club and its chairman Dickie Dowsett was supporting its fellow south coast club, as was the North Sussex Mini Club which also had a good turnout.

Vertical Limit
Giovanni Lavita was back at the Rec with his long-term showstopping Mini which has had another major facelift since last year. This time around he's fitted it with a side-exit exhaust, £700 American wire wheels and new gold colour scheme. The Lambo doors are actually an old feature from four years ago, but he says no one has noticed them really until now. Tucked away behind the leather Cosworth? seats are a pair of 10-inch subs and three sets of 6x9s providing more than enough volume to deafen the hardiest rude boy.

Inside there's custom seat subframes, custom dash and three TV screens and a shift light. The Lambo door brackets cost in the region of £700 too, but looking at the actual conversion it doesn't seem that difficult to do. Now that the original heavy doorskins have been replaced with braced carbon-fibre, to match the bonnet, there is even less effort required for the mechanism to lift up the door. But Giovanni's not finished yet, and tells us he has more ideas planned for the future!

New MINIs showed their support.

Classics & Campers
Elsewhere there was range of other cars to learn about as we discovered when Mike, a Capri enthusiast, came across the Consul Capri. With a distinctively American look and lacking a Ford badge it had us puzzled. However the owner was more than happy to give us a history lesson and tell us about the distinctions between the Consul Capris and Consul Classic. There were also a number of Fiat X1/9s, Anglias, Triumphs, VW campers and Beetles, a Bentley and others.

Me and m' new 'bird'.

By the time of the awards ceremony and raffle the sun had already claimed a number of victims, with my neck being one of them. But I sat and endured it right until the end, hopeful of bagging a trophy for the shittiest car there. As the awards were read out, the winner was... not me. I was a gutted, so took time to remonstrate with the winner, debating whose car was crapper. As it turns out hers was. She had big holes in her A-panels, where as I just had some rust. Pah! Still, I won a prize on the raffle and picked up a set of headlight stoneguards. Amongst the other prizes was a day out at Goodwood racing a Mini, toolkits, money-off vouchers, and even a love:mini cushion that one of the lead organisers, Colm, had made for the raffle the night before.

All in all it was a great success. Attendance was definitely up on when I last attended and there always seems to be a happy positive atmosphere from all the club members. The new approach of making the event more accessible to a broader audience looks to have hit the spot and early signs are that it has raised over £2500 for the Chestnut Tree Hospice, with over 300 cars in attendance. Well done to all involved, certainly our best small show of the year so far.

www.brightonminiclub.co.uk

MINI Soho Hatch models now available

2011-08-02T14:35:00.000+01:00

Following the release of the MINI Pimlico earlier this year, and continuing the trend of naming Special Editions (SE) after famous London boroughs, streets and landmarks - the MINI Soho Hatch is now available for a limited time.

The MINI Soho name may be familiar to some of you, as it was used on the Clubman SE in 2010, and for those liking the look of it, but fancying a Hatch model, then your time has come, with a choice of hardtop or convertible.

As with other MINI Soho models, the Hatch models have exclusive ‘White Silver’ metallic paint which is not available on any other current MINI Hatch or Convertible model, and to compliment the striking paintwork the Soho is finished with 17" Black Star Bullet alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with black interior reflectors and white indicators.

Inside the cabin the Soho has a sporty feel with Anthracite headlining, a 3-Spoke sport leather steering wheel and ‘Piano Black’ interior surfaces.

London-dwellers will also benefit from being exempt from the Congestion charge if opting for the Cooper D model, as well as looking ultra-trendy in your London-themed MINI.

Pricing

Model	OTR Price
MINI Cooper Soho Hatch	£16,765
MINI Cooper D Soho Hatch	£18,045
MINI Cooper Soho Convertible	£19,060
MINI Cooper D Soho Convertible	£20,135

www.mini.co.uk

Minis on the Rec this weekend!!

2011-07-30T01:55:00.001+01:00

We're heading down to Brighton Mini Club's annual show today, which is being held just down the road in nearby Shoreham by Sea.

The proper show kicks off tomorrow (Sunday) at 10am, and there will be plenty of fun to be had with other Mini fanatics.

The weather is pretty good at the moment, so why not get your stuff together and make a weekend of it on the south coast.

Make sure you pop along to the show on the seafront at Shoreham, where there will be plenty of Minis and family activities. Best of all, entry is free, and there's heaps of excellent prizes to be won on the raffle.

For further information check the Brighton Mini Club website. www.brightonminiclub.co.uk

MINI set for Rally Finland

2011-07-22T04:30:00.001+01:00

The MINI WRC Team is aiming to get both its cars to the end of the Neste Oil Rally Finland to give its drivers valuable competitive mileage in their MINI John Cooper Works WRCs. The team has been very busy with an intensive test programme since its World Rally Championship debut two months ago, and it now heads north for the next event on its 2011 agenda on the 28th/29th/30th July. Dani Sordo (ES) and Carlos del Barrio (ES) will again be driving the number 37 MINI, while Kris Meeke (GB) and Paul Nagle (IR) will be in the number 52 car.

“Finland is a specialist event, which always suits the style of the local Scandinavian drivers,” explained David Richards, Team Principal. “This early in our programme our primary aim is to put more competitive miles on the cars and to get both drivers through to the finish in strong positions.”

This will be the second WRC event on the team’s six-rally schedule, and since its first one in Sardinia has covered approximately 3,000 kilometres in testing on both tarmac and gravel. In the intervening months the MINIs have been in the UK at Cornbury Park and the Goodwood Festival of Speed, testing in Northern Italy, Germany and Finland, as well as taking part in the recce for the Greek WRC round.

The Finnish round of the WRC is one of the most famous events on the calendar. While this will be the first time there for the new MINI, in the 1960s the Mini enjoyed numerous successes in Finland. One of the drivers to appear on the podium in those days was Rauno Aaltonen (FI), so it is very fitting he will be at this year’s event supporting the team. One of his duties on the Saturday will be to present a MINI Countryman to two of his fellow Finns, Arttu Pihlainen, the world’s fastest downhill skater, and Peetu Piiroinen, a successful snowboarder. They won these cars, which are being given by BMW Suomi Oy, in races last winter and both have been customised according to the winners’ designs.

Dani Sordo:
“Finland is a really nice rally and what I would call typical of the sort you would expect in a World Rally Championship. I think I have done it about five times and always enjoy it. I also like the fact there are always lots of spectators, and I think maybe the most on any rally in the championship. It is an exciting rally to do as the roads are fast, we have lots of crests and there are big jumps. You really have to concentrate on all the stages as you are driving flat out, and in many ways it is like being on a race circuit. I was really happy after our test last week in Finland, as the car felt good, so I am going there with a lot of confidence for our performance in this rally.”

Kris Meeke:
“I have been to Finland twice before, but never in a WRC car. You have to treat this rally with respect, as it is most specific with regards to knowledge and I don’t have that knowledge, so I am going to treat it with caution. On some events you can make the pace notes and then drive a hundred per cent, but not here as there is a third dimension with the jumps. However, I am rally-hungry and can’t wait to get back after the long gap since Sardinia. The three day test we did last week went well, and I had a good feeling coming away from it. At the end of the day, that is what this year is all about, getting to know the car and the events.”

MINIs go inflatable

2011-07-20T04:30:00.001+01:00

Italian advertising agency, Access Agency, has followed up its successful indoor drive-in cinema campaign with this MINI-shaped dingy. Here are some fanciful pictures of some scenarios in which they could be used.

X-Raid MINI set to start at Silk Way Rally

2011-07-01T09:00:00.001+01:00

The next event for the X-Raid MINI team takes place from July 9-16 at the Silk Way Rally 2011, where Stéphane Peterhansel will pilot the X-Raid MINI again as he traverses the wild vastness of Russia.

Driving from Moscow to Soichi, Peterhansel will attempt to tackle seven stages and 4000km over grassland, sanddunes and mountains.

"Because of the different terrain, the Silk Way Rally gives us a very good test ground for the Dakar in January 2012,” said Monster Energy X-Raid team boss Sven Quandt.
“As the Silk Way takes place in July, we can follow the collected information and data yet to be implemented. It will also offer Leonid (Peterhansel's team-mate) a special experience in a rally in front of his countrymen."

The Silk Way Rally will run as a third edition in 2011. Organized by the ASO - the organiser of the Dakar Rally - the rally ran for the first two years in September and will take place in July this year. The route will take participants from Moscow to Sochi, the venue of the Olympic Winter Games 2014. The start of the rally will be in Red Square in the heart of Moscow. From there the route goes to Volgograd, on to the Caspian Sea and further to the finish city of Sochi.

COMING UP: Minis on the Rec

2011-06-08T13:13:00.001+01:00

Brighton Mini Club's annual charity fundraiser, Minis on the Rec, returns once again this summer along with a new sponsor - love:mini.

Held at the Rec in Shoreham on July 31, we've become fond of this show and its relaxed and fun atmosphere, prize-packed raffles and shiny south coast Minis, having attended for many years.

What's more, the whole show is free and there's loads to keep you and the family occupied. There's kids entertainment, go-kart rides, show 'n' shine, auto jumble, concours, fun and games, tombolas, competitions and much more.

For those wanting to make a weekend of it, there is also the possibility of camping over the night before and even a Saturday night Mini run along the coast - and Brighton and Worthing are just a few miles away for some daytime shopping or beachwalking.

With classic cars of all types invited this year too, there's bound to be something that catches your eye and make the day worthwhile.

www.brightonminiclub.co.uk

Camping £9

July 31
Minis on the Rec 2011
Shoreham Recreation Ground
Brighton Road (A259)
All profits go to Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice

Clubs that wish to book a free stand please email faz@brightonminiclub.co.uk

Trade that want a free stand please email colm.sweet@ntlworld.com

THIS WEEKEND: Bristol Miniday

2011-06-01T11:20:00.001+01:00

This Sunday sees the annual return of one of our favourite regional shows - Bristol Miniday - and love:mini is proud to announce our sponsorship of this thoroughly enjoyable show on June 5.

At its new home in Easter Compton, Bristol, just off the Jct 17 of the M5, last year's event rediscovered its life and soul with club games, beautiful sunshine, stunning Minis. There's also a host of club and trade stands, plus concours and driving tests aswell as Mod scooters and plenty of attractions to keep the family/kids entertained.

This year's event looks set to repeat 2010's success with the added bonus of CAMPING on the Saturday night, and if Mr Sunshine could return again that would just top off an excellent day.

Tickets around £6/7 on the day
Gates open Sunday 10am til 4pm (Sat 3pm-8pm for campers)

For more information and contact details visit the website
www.bristolminiday.co.uk

Washingpool Farm
Easter Compton
Bristol
Junction 17, M5

COMING UP: Norfolk Mini Day - Saturday May 29

2011-05-16T09:00:00.003+01:00

One of the biggest, if not the biggest, Mini event in East Anglia where hundreds of Minis turn out for this established and renowned show hosted by Norfolk Mini Owners' Club. Held on May 29 at Fakenham Racecourse the event is a relaxed but fun day out with no airs or graces and everyone just gets along and has fun. With concours, traders, craft stalls, autojuble, quiz and much more, all proceeds to charity. £5.
01760 720274
www.drive.to/nmoc

COMING UP: Minis on the Prom

2011-05-10T10:00:00.003+01:00

Celebrating its sixth annual charity event, the Dragon Mini Club is once again hosting its wonderful Mini run and show on May 28-29.

After a winding tour through picturesque Wales the event will culminate in a seaside static show on the promenade of Aberystwyth where the general public and Mini owners alike will be able to enjoy the variety of Minis on display whilst soaking up the sunshine on the beachfront.

Visitors are welcome to attend the show on Sunday, where there will be a charity raffle, show 'n' shine, and much more.

For more information contact Joy or Ron on 02920 790923 or email at joy121mini@aol.co.uk or see www.newportminiowners.co.uk

Official WRC JCW MINI to debut today

2011-05-05T23:40:00.000+01:00

Olbia, 5^th May, 2011. The dye is now caste and the final preparations have been made for the debut of the MINI WRC Team on the Rally Italy, Sardinia. Dani Sordo (ES) and his co-driver Carlos del Barrio (ES) in the MINI John Cooper Works WRC number 37 and Kris Meeke (GB) and his co-driver Paul Nagle (IR) in the sister car number 52 have just completed the pre-event shakedown on the stages near the rally start in Olbia.

Tonight at 20.00 the first car will drive away from the ceremonial start in the Sardinian port while Sordo and Meeke will be fifth and sixth to do this. The three day event then starts tomorrow with 342.80 kilometres of action over 18 gravel special stages. When the rally finishes in Olbia at lunch time on Sunday the competitors will have covered a total of 1,178.40 kilometres.

Dani Sordo:

“This is now the start and everything is very new. We have a hard working team and this is so important as we have a lot to do. At the moment we don’t know how the car will be, but this is the first time for all of us together on a rally and so we just have to wait and see what happens. In the past MINI has been a very important name in rallying and I am happy to be part of its return to the sport.”

Kris Meeke:

“This is a big challenge ahead of us, especially as on day one we have over 130 kilometres of stages and only the remote service. This is one of the reasons why we have chosen this event so we can learn as much as possible about the car. Our aim this year is to make the car as competitive as possible on every surface.”

Back to Downton Reunion - Saturday April 30

2011-04-24T09:00:00.001+01:00

The Downton Engineering Works Social Club (DEWS) is hosting its third annual 'Back to Downton' reunion on Saturday April 30, where proud and lucky owners of these Downton tuned autos gather to show off their cars' awesomeness.

Held at the Brian Whitehead Sports Ground, on Wick Lane, Downton SP5 3NS, anyone can come along and have a look at the cars for free and chat to the owners and former workers at the Downton garage. There are some excellent stories to be heard and it's a great opportunity to chat to some of the older generation about tuning and their opinions on Minis today.

For those with an interest in the Mini's history, this is a real lesson not to be missed.

Other activities planned will be Slot Car Racing & Stalls will be on hand for family fun such as Tombola , Guess the bottle , as well as games for children. The DEWS Club will have food & drink available during the show.

On Sunday there will also be a classic car run, please contact Brenda Harris for more info or check the website.

Brenda Harris,
DEWS Club,
3 Crane Street,
Cranborne,
Dorset
BH21 5QD
downton@live.co.uk
www.dewsc.org.uk

MINI Cooper SD: Official MINI Test drive day

2011-04-21T09:00:00.003+01:00

My classic Mini (Bruce) and the daddy MINI
outside Babbington House, Somerset, UK

The MINI Cooper SD has been on sale to the general public in the UK since March, and now customers are taking delivery MINI invited love:mini, and heap of other journos, to test out the new engines in four models.

On offer was the new MINI Countryman Cooper SD in white and contrasting black, the MINI Cooper SD Convertible - perfect for this glorious sunny day - the special edition MINI Clubman Hampton SD and the MINI Cooper Hatch SD.

For the full report, read the next issue of love:mini magazine at www.love-mini.co.uk for free.

In the meantime, here are some pictures from the day - with more on our Facebook Page

MINI Cooper Clubman Hampton SD

MINI Cooper SD Convertible

MINI Countryman Cooper SD

EXCLUSIVE: Buy & sell your Mini parts for free!!

2011-04-19T09:00:00.000+01:00

When it comes to selling your Mini or Mini parts there are plenty of options available. You can choose eBay, Mini forums or magazines, but these either charge you for listing your items, don't get enough people viewing the ad, or that they are just too generalised to target the people who want your stuff.

Continuing in our 'content for free' philosophy, love:mini is proud to announce our affiliation with MiniBidders.co.uk - your very own eBay for Mini owners, except we don't charge you for listing your items or adding photos etc. It's all free, and NO FEES.

All you have to do is sign up and start selling and buying. So forget about posting on hundreds of forums, generalised trade sites, and expensive magazines - get your items sold for free with love:mini and MiniBidders!!

Visit the website to check it out, sign up, and start buying and selling for FREE - MiniBidders

Enjoy

Craig McBeth
Editor
editor@love-mini.co.uk
www.love-mini.co.uk

Coming Up: LMR MEGA Mini Meet

2011-04-14T09:00:00.002+01:00

The Lancashire Mini Register (LMR), in conjunction with Lytham Hall, is hosting its biggest ever show on May 22, when hundreds of Minis are expected to flood the grounds of the historic hall.

All Mini owners are invited to attend this promising event which already has a number of big name traders booked in, plus lots of entertainment and fun for all the family.

At just £5 per car for entry, and all proceeds going towards the restoration of Lytham Hall (which will also be open), Mini owners are in for a great day as well as helping keep some more of Britain's heritage alive.

Traders already booked include:
Coastal Racing
Battle Performance
Modern Mini Magazine
NewMiniStuff
Derek Woodman MINI
My Beautiful Mini
Magnetized Mini
Autotecnik
Autoglym
South Lakes Classics Mini Parts
Alloy & Tyre Expert
Graphics-R-Us
Mini Insurance & Help

There will also be a great selection of other stalls selling everything from Car accessories, Handbags to gladrags, sweets, ice-cream, novelties, crafts & supplies, bracelets, skincare products, cakes, tea rooms, a bouncy castle, hot food and much more.

www.lancashireminiregister.co.uk

Watch the Official WRC MINI Launch presentation

2011-04-13T12:00:00.000+01:00

We were there at the front of the crowd when MINI finally unveiled the Official JCW WRC MINI, and we recorded the whole thing for you.

There's a great video at the beginning and an introduction and quick chat to some of the main players behind the car before the WRC MINI is driven on stage.

MINI Goodwood revealed

2011-04-13T01:28:00.000+01:00

The most luxurious MINI of them all, the MINI Goodwood, has been unveiled and will debut at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month.

Working alongside Rolls-Royce the aim was to produce a top-class car which has all the hallmarks of quality and luxury associated with such a regal British brand.

Produced as a limited edition of just 1000 cars, each one is hand-finished at the Oxford factory and incorporates some unique Rolls-Royce colours including the sumptuous Cornsilk which furnishes the inside of the cabin from head to foot, from the headlining to the carpet, with a classic and complementary contrasting Piano Black. And no Mini would be luxurious without a Walnut Burr dashboard, harking back to the classic's top-end dashboards.

Exterior-wise the MINI Inspired by Goodwood - as its official title - is clad in Rolls-Royce Diamond Black, or alternatively can specified in metallic Reef Blue, along with a set of 17-inch multispoke alloys.

The 1.6-litre engine is tuned to give 181bhp, but just 30mpg (combined). The car is due for sale from Spring 2012.

MINI wins Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge

2011-04-08T00:58:00.000+01:00

In only its second competition the X-Raid prepared ALL4 MINI has won the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge outright.

In a statement the X-raid team said:

"The Monster Energy X-raid team celebrated an historic success in the five-day Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, which started on April 3rd and finished on April 7th. It marked an historic achievement for the X-raid team.

The MINI All4 Racing was triumphant less than three months after its first appearance in the Dakar Rally.
The duo of Stéphane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret (FRA/FRA), claimed victory ahead of their team mates Leonid Novitskiy and Andreas Schulz (RUS/GER) in a BMW X3CC. Novitskiy not only secured valuable points for the FIA World Cup for off-road rallies, but he also took the outright lead in the World Cup drivers’ standings.

The two X-raid crews controlled proceedings in Abu Dhabi and made the fight for overall victory between themselves. Peterhansel secured three of the five possible stage wins and eventually beat Novitskiy by a winning margin of 15m16s. The Russian and his German co-driver shadowed Peterhansel and Cottret throughout the event. Novitskiy snatched victory on the third stage and briefly led Peterhansel in the overall standings.

"Stéphane and the MINI All4 Racing have shown to be in excellent shape and deserved this victory,” said Monster Energy X-raid team boss Sven Quandt. “Although he stalled twice, technically we had no problems. Even Leonid has shown a very strong performance. The second place puts him in the FIA World Cup lead and in a very good position. He maintained his tactics and approached the rally wisely. "

The MINI All4 Racing was developed by the Monster Energy X-raid team in just 90 days for the Dakar Rally. In Argentina and Chile, it quickly became a crowd favourite. The next outing for the MINI All4 Racing will be further east at the Silk Way Rally. Teams will head from the Russian capital of Moscow to Sochi, the venue of the Olympic Winter Games 2014."

First picture of MINI Pimlico

2011-04-04T16:02:00.001+01:00

Following the success of the MINI Graphite Special Edition in 2009/2010, a new MINI Hatch special edition is now on sale in the UK for 12 months.

The MINI Pimlico models feature, as standard, exclusive Laser Blue metallic paint, previously only available on MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works, 16’’ twin spoke alloy wheels, Piano Black interior trim, white indicators and MINI Pimlico special edition badging.

On the Road Prices for the MINI Pimlico models are:
MINI One Pimlico                                £14,465
MINI One D Pimlico                             £15,545
MINI Cooper Pimlico                         £15,995
MINI Cooper Auto Pimlico                  £17,210
MINI Cooper D Pimlico                       £17,295
MINI Cooper D Auto Pimlico             £18,490

ISSUE 2 - out now

2011-04-04T10:00:00.000+01:00

The long-awaited second issue of love:mini is out now and available to download from the love:mini website - www.love-mini.co.uk/issues.

Packed with over 100 pages of pure content it will keep you busy for hours reading interesting content such as the secret Austin Village, a guide to getting started in Hillclimbing, a day out with the Mighty Mini Champion, Louise Inch, and much much more.

Download and read it for free, only at www.love-mini.co.uk

Camping back at Bristol Mini Day

2011-04-02T14:19:00.000+01:00

Bristol Mini Day celebrate its returns to the popular new venue at Easter Compton on June 5 with the reintroduction of camping on the Saturday night.

The Bristol show has always been associated with a good camping night on a Saturday, and after a little break away, it is back, allowing showgoers to pitch up, chill out, have a few beers and burn a few bangers in the warm summer evening.

love:mini is sponsoring the Bristol Mini Day, and as usual it will be full of fun with club and individual competitions, trade stands and a fantastic show and shine, superbly organised as usual by Six-Ex MOC and New Mini Severns.

Also returning are the mod scooters that add more of a retro feel to the day, along with the chance to test your driving skills or buy or sell a Mini. There' plenty of fun, competitions and Mini stuff to enjoy.

TICKETS

£7 (discount for early bookers)
Under-12s are free.
Camping £10 advance (by April 7), £15 on the day (Under 12s free)

WEBSITE
www.bristolminiday.co.uk

X-Raid MINI ALL4 returns to action

2011-04-01T10:35:00.000+01:00

The X-Raid MINI ALL4 is returning to action in the Abu Dhabi Challenge this week with Frenchman Stéphane Peterhansel taking hold of the controls for the first time.
Five stages lead the participants through the Liwa desert and around the bivouac in the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort. For the first time fans can follow that event on Eurosport.
Peterhansel said: "I am delighted to sit after the Dakar in a race car and I am very excited to see how the MINI All4 Racing is handling in the desert.”
The MINI All4 Racing was becoming one of the spectators’ favorites during the Dakar Rally in January this year in Argentina and Chile. Previously, the X-raid team had delivered a masterpiece and built the car in just 90 days. Despite the short development time, the MINI All4 Racing was competitive from the beginning.
"The sand dunes of Abu Dhabi and the Desert Challenge are a great challenge for drivers and cars," said X-raid team boss Sven Quandt. "This is just the thing for Stéphane and the MINI All4 Racing."
www.x-raid.de

Stéphane Peterhansel

ABU DHABI DESERT CHALLENGE 2011 31.03.2011

- Thursday, 31st March: Documentation
- Friday, 1st April: Scrutineering
- Saturday, 2nd April: 1st Stage
- Thursday, 7th April: 5th Stage/ Finish

TotalMINI Diesel Challenge - one tank of fuel to John O'Groats

2011-03-31T13:40:00.001+01:00

Have you heard about the MINI Diesel Challenge?

Well today, totalMINI admin crew Jon and Kev will be attempting to drive a factory standard MINI Cooper D from MINI HQ in Bracknell, all the way to John O'Groats - that's 676 miles!

No problem you may think... well the challenge is to complete the journey on one (40 litre) tank of diesel.  That means driving all through the night, watching our speed and fuel consumption, and trying to average a whopping 76.6mpg!

So why are they doing this? Well it's simple, to raise money for two very worthy causes. Breakthough Breast Cancer is this year's totalMINI Charity Ball main benefactor, and Leukaemia Research was an easy choice after the TM community lost a much loved member this year to the illness.

So please folks, get behind us and show your support by donating using the link below.

DONATE http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/DieselChallenge

TRACK THEM http://beerm.at/dieselchallenge/

FORUM www.totalmini.com/forum/9-general-discussion/16809-totalmini-announces-mini-diesel-challenge.html

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/totalmini

MINIs out of WRC after mechanical failures

2011-03-28T12:41:00.000+01:00

The MINI's debut in the WRC has come to a premature end after mechanical failure on both machines forced the Brazilian WRT and Motorsport Italia to retire.

The two teams had been the first to ever enter the new Countryman-based JCW S2000 into the WRC and official MINI driver, Daniel Oliveira, was getting his first taste of handling the MINI under competitive conditions for the Brazilian team before hooking up with the official MINI team in Italy in May.

A statement from the Brazil World Rally Team says:
"Unfortunately, after four days of competition and more than 385.37 kilometres of tough stages, Oliveira’s MINI stopped within the last stage of race with a broken suspension, 13 kilometres from the finishing line. Daniel couldn’t fulfil his aim of finishing his first event in the WRC. However, the general outcome was highly positive for him and the team."

The second team competing in a MINI is Motorsport Italia/BAMP, with Armindo Araujo piloting the S2000. Araujo had been performing pretty well, better than Oliveira in the S2000, but after suffering a tyre puncture on SS11 on day two, they eventually were forced to retire with engine problems according to Rally Buzz.

MINI makes its debut in the WRC

2011-03-25T16:25:00.001Z

The WRC's third 2011 event in Portugal is well under way and sees the first of the WRC Super 2000 MINI Countrymans competing. Official MINI driver Daniel Oliveira is piloting a JCW Super 2000 version of the WRC MINI for the Brazilian team before joining Kris Meeke and the official WRC MINI team in Italy in May. While Portugese driver Armindo Araujo has also entered in the same car for the Motorsport Italia team

In the ceremonial special stage through the crowd-lined streets of Lisbon yesterday, Oliveira set the sixth best time of the Super 2000 cars through the 3.27-km run, with a time of 3mins 11.4secs. to came 13.8secs adrift of class leader, the local hero Armindo Araujo.

Today the drivers are tackling six more stages, covering 132.41 kilometres of gravel roads, and this time there will be no ceremony as Oliveira and Araujo try to get to grips with new MINI under competitve conditions for the first time.

You can follow the WRC in many ways. Here are some links

www.wrc.com
www.facebook.com/WorldRally
http://twitter.com/OfficialWRC

In the meantime, for those of you who know of Ken Block, who competes in the WRC, here's a pretty nasty roll he had yesterday.

UK MINI-E trial finishes

2011-03-18T15:29:00.000Z

The MINI E UK Field Trial which has been researching and analysing the use of fully electric MINIs on UK roads since December 2009 has come to an end today. The 40 ‘pioneers’, who are the second set of participants in the trial handed back their MINI Es at an event at MINI Plant Oxford.

During the UK trial the MINI E was tested on British roads by a mixture of 80 private, corporate and public sector drivers – all of whom gave valuable feedback to the project consortium and UK Government. Between them they covered over a quarter of a million miles throughout the duration of the trial. These findings will ultimately be used in the engineering and infrastructure support of mass-produced electric vehicles and establish the social and economic issues and aspects of running an electric car.

The 40 MINI Es will remain in the UK and will be used in a small number of commercial partnerships, they will also be used at consumer and corporate events as well as in partnerships with government and industry stakeholders.

Preliminary Results
The final results of the MINI E UK study will be released this summer, however results from the first three months of the trial (December 2009 – February 2010) have already been analysed and the key findings are as follows:

MINI E usage differs only marginally from a control group of conventional car drivers in terms of average journey distance, daily mileage and frequency of use.
Before the trials began, users expected limitations in terms of range and charging times. In practice these have only proved to be barriers in a very few specific cases.
Users felt reassured that both the MINI E itself and the charging process are completely safe.
There was a very strong feeling from both private and fleet users that renewable energy should play an important role in future electricity generation. There was also a strong feeling that the battery of an electric vehicle (EV) should be charged using renewables to optimise the ecological advantages of an EV.
The BMW Group is trusted to provide a technically mature solution to the challenges presented by EVs.
Users reported a need for more interior space for journeys requiring more passengers and more storage capacity.
Users felt strongly that public charging facilities for EVs were desirable and even essential. However, at the same time, the majority claimed that they coped without public charging facilities.
In summary, users liked MINI E’s lack of noise, the convenience of home charging, low off peak power charges, not having to go to a petrol station and queue, driving a zero emissions vehicle, MINI E’s acceleration characteristics and regenerative braking.
Drawbacks include current mileage range for certain journeys, limited carrying capacity and sub-optimal car performance during the extremely cold weather conditions in December 2009 and January 2010.

Comment and further information
Jochen Goller, Director of MINI UK. “One has to remember that MINI E, despite being very thoroughly engineered for its task, is a modified existing production MINI Hatch. An EV designed from the ground up such as the BMW i3 will be able to address some of the issues around interior space and driving range. That is precisely the reason we are holding these trials.”

“We are very confident that findings from this trial will help us greatly in producing an exciting and extremely efficient vehicle for the urban environments of the future” Goller continued. “We are truly grateful to the 80 pioneers who are helping to shape the future of the sustainable electric car. They are people who care about the future of our planet as much as they do about the mobility of its inhabitants” he concluded.

Iain Gray, Chief Executive of Technology Strategy Board said, “The preliminary result from the MINI E trial demonstrate the positive experiences recorded by some of the 40 trial participants. This is very encouraging news and will hopefully set the tone for the remaining consortia as they begin to capture and analyse their own data.

‘The culmination of this data marks a major milestone on the road towards electrification of UK vehicles, and takes us a step closer to reaching our carbon emission reduction targets of 80 per cent by 2050.”

The MINI E UK Research Consortium, of which BMW Group is the lead partner, comprises several organisations which are based around Oxford and the South-East of England. All are playing important roles in the collaborative field trial. In addition to the BMW Group, the consortium includes Southern Electric (part of the Scottish and Southern Electric Energy Group) which will supply both the electricity and the electrical infrastructure, an academic partner (Oxford Brookes University’s Sustainable Vehicle Engineering Centre) and the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) as well as Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire County Council.

During everyday usage, the MINI E can travel around 100-120 miles (up to 156 miles in ideal conditions*) on a single charge, depending on driving style and conditions, and of course, has the all the characteristic performance for which the MINI is famous. It can sprint from 0-62mph in just 8.5 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 95mph.

These 40 ‘pioneers’ are part of MINI E UK Research Consortium, one of eight UK projects supported by the Technology Strategy Board and Department for Transport’s £25m Ultra Low Carbon Vehicles Demonstrator Programme aimed at accelerating the introduction of viable electric passenger vehicles to the UK.

Speaking at the hand back event, Head of E-Mobility Innovation Projects at BMW Group Dr Julian Weber said, ‘“The primary focus of the BMW Group Project i is electro mobility. All information generated during the MINI E field trials is being incorporated into the ongoing development and refinement of our first purpose built production car, the Megacity Vehicle BMW i3, due for launch in 2013. So far, we have gathered over 7 million miles of knowledge.”

The MINI E is the first product of BMW’s project i – a programme designed to research and develop transport strategies and new types of vehicles for sustainable mobility. As well as in the UK trials have been conducted in the USA and Germany, and have recently launched in France, China and Japan.

Official MINI USBs released

2011-03-17T15:32:00.000Z

There's been a growing trend for novelty-shaped USB memory sticks since the classic Mini USB was seen a few years ago, and now MINI has released it own quality and authentic items for any Mini lover.

Three USBs have been released, each with a different design to appeal to your own personal styling.

The MINI 'Key' USB imitates the MINI ignition key, right down to the last deatil and offers storage of up to 8GB, The red ring around the outer edge of the key illuminates when connected and there is also cap, neckstrap and separate USB cable. £30

For those keen to emphasise the British link to the Mini there is a 'Bulldog' design which is proper British isn't it! This stick holds 4GB of information and is pulled apart to expose the connection. It also comes with a lanyard with MINI prints and an additional USB cable. £21

Finally the very cool MINI Liquid USB mouse is sure to enliven your desk and replace that dull cream or grey mouse. Inside the mouse is a mini MINI swimming around in a two-tone, transparent orange liquid. There's also a bumper sticker proclaiming 'Do not stare at my boot', while practically there are two buttons and a scroll wheel on the optical mouse. £14.95

Buy them at selected dealers or from the MINI shop. www.mini.com

Luxury MINI planned for Shanghai show

2011-03-16T10:03:00.002Z

Autoblog has revealed that MINI is planning to unveil its super high-end luxury model at the Shanghai Motor Show next month.

The luxury MINI has been on the cards for a while, but with the introduction of the new MINI personalisation system - MINI Yours - the time seems right to unwrap it for public viewing.

From the little information available, the car is likely to be named the MINI Goodwood (or some variation) after being co-created with the bods from Rolls-Royce, based down in Goodwood.

It is rumoured that it will be the most expensive MINI ever, eclipsing the mega-money needed for the JCW Championship 50, with the interior being overhauled and refitted with top of the range materials and comfort items.

The idea harks back to that of a luxury classic Mini, as was demonstrated by the Riley Elf and Wolseley Hornet in 1961. Production of these high-end models didn't last the decade though and were discontinued in 1969.

Rallying on TV confirmed

2011-03-15T15:29:00.001Z

We love motorsport - it's at the heart of what the Mini is all about - so we're delighted that we'll be able to see the occassional Mini mixing it up with other historic rally cars through some very demanding courses in the UK.

Motors TV will be covering the Dunlop/WONAGO MSA British Historic Rally Championship with dedicated hour-long programmes following each round as well as an extended end-of-season review programme.

The broadcast dates for the first showing of each programme are as follows:
Mid Wales Stages: Sunday 27 March at 9.30pm
Bulldog Historic Rally: Saturday 23 April at 9pm
Pirelli Historic Rally: Saturday 28 May at 8.30pm
Severn Valley Historic Stages: Sunday 26 June at 9.30pm
Ulster Historic Rally: Sunday 18 September at 6.55pm
Tour of Flanders: Sunday 9 October at 10pm
Colin McRae Stages: Saturday 22 October at 9.30pm
Isle of Man Historic Rally: Sunday 20 November at 9pm

Backing for the coverage comes from BHRC TV partners CES (www.autosessive.com), Sherwood Engines (www.sherwoodengines.co.uk), Skipton Ford (www.skipton-ford.com.uk) Tuthill Porsche (www.francistuthill.co.uk), West Wales Rally Spares (www.westwalesrallyspares.co.uk) and XS Racing www.xsracing.net).

Each programme will benefit from multiple repeats in the week following the initial broadcast, and the opening programme from the Mid Wales Stages will be repeated up to 10 times.

Meanwhile, thanks to support from the event organisers, the Swansea Bay Historic Rally, which is a round of the Water End Gravel Cup, will also be broadcast. The programme covering the 16 July rally will be screened on Saturday 6 August at 9pm.

Acceleration Television and Video, the company headed by David Winstanley, is again filming the championship. His team will exclusively film all events and produce television programmes as well as DVDs, which will be available through www.rallytv.co.uk and via the HRCR shop (www.hrcr.co.uk)

Mini track evenings for novices from £39!

2011-03-12T09:00:00.007Z

Ever wanted to test your MINI on the track but never been able to afford it? Well, MINI has teamed up with Club MSV to unleash your inner beast at some of the best UK race tracks - and all for dead cheap!

There are five novice track evenings just for MINI and (ahem) BMW drivers. Following a safety briefing participants will be taken on a familiarisation lap before putting theory into practice and discovering what it means to drive their MINI on a famous motor racing circuit.

Classic Minis welcome!

The dates and locations are as follows;

Monday 11 April – Bedford Autodrome - including guest star appearance from TVs Tiff Needell.

Friday 13 May – Cadwell Park (Lincolnshire)

Wednesday 22 June – Snetterton (Norfolk)

Tuesday 19 July – Brands Hatch (Kent)

Monday 1 August – Bedford Autodrome

Prices range from just £39 to £49. For more information or to book onto an event please visit www.clubmsv.co.uk/bmwontrack.

British Mini Club announces Rat-look theme for Himley Hall

2011-03-11T15:28:00.000Z

Stately home Himley Hall will be welcoming a whole heap of decaying and rusty Minis onto its splendid grounds after the British Mini Club announced this year's event theme would be based upon the 'rat-look'.

The BMC, which hosts a number of the Mini scene's leading events, is keen to help encourage owners to embrace the look which is so well known in the USA and within the VW scene.

Not sure what it's all about, well it's not just letting your Mini rust away, although done properly this could be effective. It's more of a styling process where you co-ordinate body panels to give a post-apocalyptic type look. This could be done simply by replacing a good bonnet with a rusty one, or by conditioning certain panels to rust evenly.

To some it might seem controversial, but done under supervision and maintained properly you could have a very cool Mini.

The best way to understand is to look at what others have done and use some creativity to put your own individual stamp on your design. Whatever you come up with, we're very excited to see the final outcome at Himley Hall on May 8.

www.britishminiclub.co.uk

MINI Motorsport website now live. MINIs set for next round of WRC

2011-03-10T13:36:00.000Z

As part of MINIs foray into the world of motorsport - most noticably this year in the World Rally Championship - the MINI Motorsport division has launched its own website which will allow you to keep up-to-date with the official team's exploits.
And it's not just dedicated to the WRC. You can find information from the Dakar rally which the team took part in earlier this year, the MINI Challenge series and other competitive actitvities.
The classic Mini hasn't been forgotten amongst the flurry of excitement either, as there is a history on the classic's rallying history, as well as passing mentions for its success on the track.

With the first MINIs set to enter the next WRC rally in Portugal at the end of March, and MINI entering the official team in the Italian rally, things are really getting exciting.

www.minimotorsport.com/en

2011-03-09T10:54:00.000Z

Four lads from Wessex Mini Club are hanging up their car keys and taking to their bikes for a 10-day, 1000-mile charity marathon from John O'Groats to Lands End.

Wessex MOC, one of the oldest Mini clubs in the UK and has always prided itself on being a fun and friendly club. With this ideology they have supported a number of charities and fundraising events over the years.

For the last few years, working with Minis4Kids they have supported Wave 105’s Cash for Kids, attending the fundraising days at Gunwharf Quays, charity cinema screenings and helping with Prom runs. Each event has raised much needed money for children’s charities.

For 2011, four members of the club, Rob, Robin, Kevin and Darren have come together for a monumental physical challenge. In place of driving their cars to raise money, this year they are taking to two wheels in an epic challenge. This July they will begin a cycle ride starting from John O’Groats and ending at Lands End, a distance of nearly 1000 miles to be undertaken in 10 days.

A club spokesperson said: "With Wave 105 Cash for Kids as the chosen benefactor of this physical challenge, we know the funds will go to local children in need."

To help out and donate, or just to follow their efforts this summer, bookmark the website

http://4menandtheirbikes.weebly.com

www.justgiving.com/WessexMOC

www.wessexmoc.com

BMWBLOG interviews new MINI Head of Design: Anders Warming

2011-03-07T23:53:00.000Z

Highly-rated MINI internet site, BMWBLOG, has secured an exclusive interview with the new man in charge of the MINI's design for the forseeable future, Anders Warming.

Warming took up his new position in January this year and BMWBLOG quizzed him at the recent Geneva Motor Show last month.

The full interview is up on the BMWBLOG website here, and poses the questions we all want to know about his vision for the brand.

MINI Connected: what's it all about?

2011-03-07T12:23:00.000Z

For most people a car is just a car that gets them from A to B. Whereas most Mini and some MINI owners consider their cars an extension to their lifestyle. MINI has recognised this and is changing the way it develops its car's on-board systems to become more interactive with the owner's social networks.

MINI Connect is the centrepiece behind this, and it's as simple as plugging in your smartphone. Primary accomodating the iPhone, MINI Connect communicates with your phone and re-routes information into the MINI's centre console. From here you can update Facebook, Twitter, re-re-route phone calls through your Bluetooth and much more.

Watch MINI's official video to see how you can incorporate your MINI into your lifestyle.

TVMOC withdraws from IMM2014 race

2011-03-05T12:47:00.000Z

Thames Valley Mini Club has announced it is withdrawing its bid for IMM2014 following a breakdown in talks with its preferred venue, Goodwood.

The club has issued the following press release:
"It is with much regret and disappointment that Thames Valley Mini Club announces the withdrawal of their aspirations and much vaunted bid for the 2014 International Mini Meet at Goodwood Motor Circuit.

This announcement comes following advanced stage talks revealed a significant disparity in a key area between the IMM 2014? requirements and Goodwood’s own vision of the event. Both TVMC and Goodwood have worked to overcome the issue but ultimately have found little room for the negotiation of a suitable solution.

Thames Valley Mini Club has investigated a number of alternative venues and possibilities but has not found a site that sufficiently meets the criteria for an anniversary event. The Club has therefore decided to withdrawal its bid rather than present a lesser, alternative option to that previously advertised.

TVMC would very much like to thank mini owners, clubs traders, online communities and the mini fraternity in general for their support and messages of good will for this venture. We apologise to everyone that has lent support to the Club and to those that were looking forward to the bid process and the possibility of bringing the IMM to Goodwood.

Finally the Club wishes SMOC and any other clubs that may be considering a bid the best of luck for their bid in Switzerland later this year and with the IMM in 2014.

Gordon Fletcher & Trudy Piner

On behalf of TVMC IMM 2014? Committee."

Calling on Cabrio drivers to cross Europe.

2011-03-04T14:57:00.000Z

MINI Convertible drivers know the word 'always open' like no other. They prefer to drive with the hood open, even in winter. A good reason to take a select group of MINI Cabrio drivers through the rugged landscape of Scandinavia and Eastern Europe - to Murmansk in Russia to drive.

The journey will head from Amsterdam through Scandinavia, Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Berlin back to Amsterdam. The start and finish at the Amsterdam Auto show which runs from April 12 to 23 at the RAI in Amsterdam.

MINI will also feed back images of the challenge to the AutoRAI, so the people at home remain fully informed of the exciting trip across Europe. Participants are fully catered travel: everything has been thought of with extraordinary hotels, visas, permits and insurance. MINI delivers the complete lettering on the car and warm 'MINI Cabrio Always Open' outfits.

Up to 25 teams participate. The participation fee is €2750, - per person and the organization is owned by CarChallenge, known for the Amsterdam-Tokyo Challenge.

Lovers have until March 20 to apply. Visit - www.mini.nl/aoc

MINI Japan introduces limited edition Black Eye package

2011-03-02T12:34:00.001Z

MINI Japan has launched a limited editon package for the Cooper hatchback. Called the Black Eye package, it is limited to just 150 units with its special white silver body and black roof. The retail price from the package is 2,869,000YEN - equating to about £21,506.

MINI announces WRC entry dates and technical info

2011-03-01T14:31:00.000Z

The MINI WRC team is at the Geneva Motorshow displaying its Super2000 rally car that will be available to private teams to race in during this year's competition, and has confirmed dates which they expect to compete in with the official MINI WRC car.

The Super2000 will be available to private teams

New regulations introduced by the FIA have increased competition and raised the excitement by allowing private teams to race in the same cars as those put out by manufacturers, and the MINI S2000 is what will be available to privateers looking to compete in a MINI.

In Portugal, for example, the Brazil World Rally Team will be sending the Brazilian Daniel Oliveira into action in a MINI John Cooper Works S2000, and reigning PWRC champion Armindo Araujo (PT) will line up in a MINI for the Motorsport Italia outfit. Oliveira and Araujo will then swap over to the MINI John Cooper Works WRC for Rally Italy. Prodrive is currently working on 12 MINI rally cars for delivery to customers across Europe.

The official MINI JCW WRC

Three key areas set the WRC car apart from its Super2000 sibling. The MINI John Cooper Works WRC will gain a larger rear wing and its front end will boast greater aerodynamic efficiency. On asphalt rallies the WRC machine will be fitted with water-cooled brakes on the front axle, while the side windows of the MINI John Cooper Works WRC will be made from ultra-lightweight plastic.

The powerful heartbeat of both cars will be generated by the turbocharged 1.6-litre engine used in standard MINI production cars, but optimised by BMW Motorsport for use in numerous race series. Indeed, this engine also powers the BMW 320 TC run by privately-entered teams in the FIA World Touring Car Championship.

The diameter of the air intake restrictor is also identical, although Prodrive also offers a variant with a smaller restrictor for championships where WRC cars are not permitted. Customer teams can order both the MINI John Cooper Works WRC and the Super2000-specification car from Prodrive as part of an extensive service package.

The MINI WRC Team has further tests lined up over the coming weeks, before the MINI John Cooper Works WRC is presented to the public at the MINI plant in Oxford (GB) on 11th April 2011. Meanwhile, the official MINI Motorsport website www.MINImotorsport.com will go online this Tuesday. Here, MINI fans can find news, pictures, videos and much more besides on the brand’s motor sport activities; features include detailed profiles of both the MINI WRC Team and the MINI John Cooper Works WRC. MINI Motorsport is already up and running on Facebook and YouTube (www.facebook.com/MINImotorsport and www.youtube.com/MINImotorsport).

The FIA WRC calendar 2011 at a glance.

*MINI entry

Date                                        Event
10-13 February 2011              Rally Sweden
3-6 March 2011                      Rally Mexico
24-27 March 2011                  Rally Portugal
14-16 April 2011                    Rally Jordan
5-8 May 2011                        Rally Italy*
26-29 May 2011                     Rally Argentina
16-19 June 2011                     Rally Greece
28-31 July 2011                      Rally Finland*
18-21 August 2011                 Rally Germany*
8-11 September 2011             Rally Australia
29 Sept-2 Oct 2011                Rally France*
20-23 October 2011               Rally Spain*
10-13 November 2011 Rally GB*

A closer look at the MINI Rocketman Concept

2011-02-26T09:00:00.001Z

Head of MINI Design talks about the new Rocketman Concept

2011-02-26T00:37:00.000Z

MINI Rocketman door concept

On the size of the car and the use of sustainable materials

The use of carbon fibre in the MINI Rocketman

MINI Thunder 2011 video

2011-02-25T09:57:00.000Z

One of the most exciting and upcoming events in the States is MINI Thunder which took place last weekend. Now in to its second year it gives Mini owners the opportunity to spend a day at the race track on the West Coast and enjoy pushing their personal boundaries and enjoy viewing other Minis and chatting to owners.

Check out what it's all about in this video is courtesy of Miniology.

MINI apprentices needed

2011-02-24T07:00:00.017Z

MINI is looking for 23 new recruits to take up places across the MINI production plants at Oxford, Swindon and Hams Hall near Birmingham in September.

The apprenticeships are set to last between three and four years and will cover a wide range of skills from human resources and business to electrical maintenance and engineering. The training also leads to an NVQ level three qualification and some apprentices will have the opportunity to progress right through to degree level.

All apprentices will also attend college on a part-time basis and the plant will be working alongside two local colleges to help deliver the programme – Oxford and Cherwell Valley and Abingdon and Witney.

Laura Lyne, head of training for the UK, said: “Investment in skilled young people is a key part of our development strategy for the plant. It is vital that we attract the very best young talent to ensure the business has the right skills for the future, and we are delighted to be able to continue to offer young people a chance to join our modern apprenticeship programme.”

The 23 new apprentices will join 145 existing apprentices across the company’s production plants at Oxford, Swindon, Hams Hall, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited in Goodwood.

Applications for an apprenticeship can be made online at www.mini-production-triangle.com and clicking on the “Associates” button. The closing date for applications is 6th March 2011.

MINI Rocketman set to appease small car fans

2011-02-23T17:16:00.001Z

Classic Mini owners have been banging the 'size' drum since the launch of the MINI and as reported months ago, MINI had plans in the pipeline produce a smaller 'city' car which they have now unveiled and dubbed - the Rocketman (nice!).

So just a few of the basics.

It's got a carbon-fibre spaceframe construction.
It's just over 10ft long, making it the mini-est of MINIs so far (11ft 3-inches approx).
It seats four in a 3+1 arrangment (this can be altered for more comfortable positioning)
It offers an amazing 94mpg - putting the MINI back where it belongs as one of the most fuel efficient cars

The doors are double hinged, either side of the A-panel to allow extra access into the car.
Rear lights/indicators are projected on to the body of the car using a unique LED system.
Split tailgate with large opening hatch and 'drawer' style openings.
Dashboard redesigned.
All console controls now moved to steering wheel
Aerodynamic wheels with carbon fins.

It's flexible. Because of the size constraints, owners will be able to use the flexibility of the components of the car to meet the required needs. The luggage compartment can be increased if the number of seats is reduced, and vice-versa. If out for some fun driving, the seating can be reduced to just two, while four can be also seated if necessary, although likely to be in considerably less comfort.

The Rocketman is set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2011, and is a combination of new and old elements. Taking the concept and basic idea of getting the most storage from the smallest space from the original Mini back in 1959, it's customisable options, forward-looking design and ingenuity also see the gadgets of tomorrow incorporated and will hope to appeal to both modern MINI brand lovers as well as those who have in the past criticised the MINI hatch for being too big.

It's a bit off the wall, but we think it could be a hit.

love:mini stickers back on sale

2011-02-23T14:32:00.000Z

After high demand for our branded love:mini stickers, we are pleased to announce the first of a set of new sticker vendors who will be providing love:mini stickers on our behalf.

The first top name to offer their services is the first place most people turn to for their classic Mini stickers - StickerCentral. Dan and his team are the first to get production underway for the stickers and you can buy them direct from the StickerCentral website along with a heap of other quality replica and fun stickers and apparel.

Each new sticker vendor will also be offering their own unique twist on the love:mini brand, by offering their own exclusive love:mini stickers, so remember to check out each new vendor for your favourite style.

Prices for the original love:mini sticker start at just 75p (excluding p&p), and there are six designs, in three different sizes available through StickerCentral so make sure you get yours all ready for the show season.

StickerCentral

love:mini stickers page

VIN Number decoder now on love:mini

2011-01-28T13:06:00.000Z

As part of our remit to become a useful and resourceful website and magazine, we have found some helpful information from other Mini enthusiasts which will enable you to decode those funny letters and numbers that identify your Mini uniquely.

It's especially useful when buying classic Minis, their engines or shells, by allowing you to check that the engine or body is what they say it is.

Why not check yours now and see what comes up, bearing in mind it's not a foolproof system due to the cock-eyed numbering system used in the old days, but in most cases it is pretty accurate.

Check your VIN now - VIN DECODER

Dancers break record for number of people in a MINI

2011-01-27T12:38:00.000Z

The world record for the number of people fitting in a MINI has been broken, again. This time it's a troupe of 26 dancers in tight lycra who have folded themselves into all sorts of shapes to fit in the MINI saloon.

While the feat might be a bit 'old hat' now, the video is sure to give male (and some female) viewers a treat.

MINI out of Dakar after freak accident

2011-01-10T12:15:00.000Z

The MINI rally team participating in the Dakar Rally 2011 have had to withdraw from the event after a freak accident in testing for Stage 7 on Saturday evening.

Driver Guerlain Chicherit and co-driver Michel Perin had been lying ninth in the general classification and had been checking the car with chief mechanic Frank Tröbs after the scheduled rest day rebuild. On the return to the bivouac from the brief test – where everything was shown to be working normally - Chicherit clipped a ridge of ground and flipped the car into a series of three rolls, which badly damaged the body panels on the Mini.

Team director Sven Quandt took the immediate decision not to rebuild the car overnight and Chicherit and the new Mini All4 Racing were withdrawn from the event.
“If this had happened during the race then it would have been more acceptable,” said a bitterly disappointed team director Sven Quandt. “But this accident happened on a roll-out test after the car had just been completely rebuilt. Everything was fine. Guerlain had just confirmed this to the mechanic who was in the car. Guerlain decided he wanted to do another 25km, which is normally not necessary and then he came over a crest and we know what happened next.
“There was a clear understanding between Guerlain and us that the car has to go to Buenos Aires, no matter what the position. Even if it was slow, I did not care. He knew that and we had a meeting again in Arica about this.
“The car is very strong. There is nothing integral on the body that is damaged, but this is a disappointing setback for what is a very exciting project. We knew the car was fast and reliable.”

www.x-raid.de/
www.dakar.com

New love:mini clubs finder map

2010-12-22T18:40:00.000Z

After three days of hard data input we're proud to announce the launch of a new clubs finder map.

Hosted on the love:mini site (www.love-mini.co.uk/mini-clubs), you can now pin-point where your local club is visually, as well as browsing the comprehensive list of clubs further in the section.

The map, powered by Google, is interactive and works like any other Google map, enabling you to zoom from a whole world view down to your local street.

Following feeback about the lengthy text listings, with lack of geographical co-ordination, we have finally produced a solution.

As usual, please check it out and let us know if there are any problems, faults or any incorrect or old information.
We hope you like it! Merry Mini Christmas.

The HRCR Mini Cup 2011

2010-12-21T15:45:00.000Z

The HRCR Mini Cup 2011 supported by Astran Cargo Services Ltd.

The Historic Rally Car Register organise a Stage Rally Championship for Minis as part of their Historic Stage Rally Challenge. The championship is open to all fully Stage-prepared Minis prior to 1981 and are divided into three classes: MC1 – up to 1000cc; MC2 -1001-1300cc; MC3 – 1300cc including all 8 port engines. All vehicles must comply with the MSA regulations for the age of the vehicle.
A useful website for technical details is www.hrct.co.uk

Championship regulations and registration forms will be on the main HRCR website www.hrcr.co.uk from January 1, 2011 and the official launch will be at the HRCR Open Day at the Heritage Motor Museum at Gaydon on Saturday January 15, 2011. The Open Day is a free event to all including members of the public and car parking is also free.

The following is a list of events for 2011
FEBRUARY 26 - Rallye Sunseeker Historique, Bournemouth. Gravel.
APRIL 9 - Get it Sideways Stages Down Ampney. Asphalt
MAY 1 - Welsh Rally. Brecon. Asphalt.
JUNE 4- Severn Valley Stages, Builth Wells. Gravel.
JUNE 26 - Mid Summer Stages, Caerwent. Asphalt
AUGUST 13 - Neath Valley Stages, Walters Arena. Gravel.
SEPTEMBER 9-10 - Tour of Flanders Roeslare, Belgium. Asphalt
OCTOBER 15 - Cambrian, Llandudno. Gravel.

For further details contact the Championship Co-ordinator Brian Thomas on brian@hrcr.co.uk or tel 01594-810821.

Bill Richards Racing to Compete in 2011 Rallye Monte Carlo Historique

2010-12-16T01:09:00.001Z

After finishing the 2010 season with a hard fought Class C win with his KAD powered Mini in the Dunlop Motorsport News Championship and setting new lap records at Lydden, Snetterton and Brands Hatch world-renowned circuit racer, Bill Richards, is hoping for the same level of success when he swaps the asphalt for snow-covered Alpine roads in the Monte Carlo Historique Rallye. Together with navigator, John Morrow, and competing as “Minispares- Mad Dog Rallying” he will set off from the Reims start on 28th January 2011.

Richards, who runs a well-known engineering and engine tuning business in Ashford, Kent, will campaign a 1965 1293cc Morris Mini Cooper S owned by Seattle-based co-driver, John Morrow. The car is a very close replica to the fabulously successful vehicles built by BMC Competitions Department in the 1960s and which won the Monte Carlo outright on three separate occasions. Currently the car is in the Bill Richards Racing workshops undergoing extensive preparation for the event.

This Monte Carlo Historique is one of the most gruelling rallies in the world and the team will have to cover 2500 Km including a number of special stages over narrow, snow and ice-covered, mountain roads before they reach the sunshine of the Mediterranean. Richards and Morrow will be competing against more than 320 other cars including a dozen classic Minis. Co-driver Morrow says, “2011 is the Centennial anniversary of the Monte Carlo rally and there will be a lot of interest in the event. It is also 50 years since a Mini first competed on the rally and it will be fascinating to see how the car can perform against its rivals half a century after it was first produced; the Monte is an extremely competitive event but we are very well prepared and are hoping for at least a class win”.

For this special occassion, the Mini Cooper Register has six Minis being entered:

The team entries are:
Bill Richards/William Morrow GB 1965 Morris Mini Cooper S Reims
Peter Barker/Willy Cave GB 1965 Austin Mini Cooper S Reims
Jean-Paul Burnier/Patrick Alibaux F 1975 Innocenti Mini Cooper Glasgow
Christophe Gandy/Stephane Campo F 1969 Austin Mini Cooper S Glasgow
Anthony Hart/Graeme Allan GB 1965 Morris Mini Cooper S Glasgow
Alastair Vines/Peter Moss GB 1964 Austin Mini Cooper S Reims

In addition MCR Honorary member and 1967 Rallye Monte Carlo winner Rauno Aaltonen will be contesting the rally from Marrakech with Helmut Artacker SF/A 1969 Austin Mini Cooper S.

For further information contact Bill Richards (bill.richardsracing@btconnect.com; 01233-624336) or John Morrow (wjwmorrow@yahoo.com; 00-1-425-442-7111)

The Rally Show at Cornbury Park

2010-12-13T10:30:00.000Z

Coincidence is an amazing thing. Only the other day we were talking about Cornbury Park, the old MITP and the fuss about bringing it back to Cornbury. Our argument was that there are plenty of static country home shows on the scene, and do we need another for sentimental value. If there was something to attract us, such as rallying or some action - then sure.

No sooner had that conversation finished, then The Rally Show announces its new venue for 2011 - guess where - Cornbury Park. It seems a call had been answered.

Held on May 14/15, The Rally Show has made a name for itself with its breakneck stages and famous faces and cars on display all weekend. With this more central location, we reckon it could be a big hit. And despite there being no specific Mini-related action announced, it'll be a great weekend out anyway. One thing though - it clashes with the London-to-Brighton run 2011.

First love:mini front cover revealed

2010-12-10T19:12:00.000Z

After months of waiting we're delighted to tell you that the first issue is due out this week, and here is a look at the very first front cover.

We can also confirm that the magazine will be available to view for free online, as well as download.

At 148 pages, it's quite a read, with lots of varied articles and information to digest and comment about.

Keep updated via our Facebook page or check back at the website regularly.

love:mini calendar now available

2010-11-26T21:16:00.000Z

Since last week's appeal for your best Mini pictures for our desktop calendar, we've been inundated with entries.

However, we've narrowed down the entries and created, not one, but two sets of pictures so you can mix and match and make your own selection of Mini calendar pics for your computer's desktop.

Thanks to everyone who sent in their pictures, even those that didn't make it, but from the response we've had, it looks like this could become an annual appeal.

Visit the website, under the Fun link you'll find the calendar pictures. Click on your favourite for each month and right-click to Save Image As. Then put your selection in a folder and Set As Desktop Background through the right-click menu.

http://www.love-mini.co.uk/fun/calendar

London to become "electric car capital of Europe"

2010-11-11T12:12:00.001Z

London City Mayor, Boris Johnson, has unveiled plans to make London the "electric car capital of Europe", with the installation of around 1300 EV charging points.

The scheme, named Source London, is set to be in place by 2013. The Mayor originally announced, earlier this year, that he would like 25,000 EV charging points in London by 2015, however, this figure looks to be unrealistic given the new announcement.

www.sourcelondon.net

Free EV 'juice' in North America

2010-10-28T17:49:00.000+01:00

BMW DesignworksUSA has been working with Garage Juice Bar to provide free charging points for electric vehicles (EV) in North America.

Garage Juice Bar engaged BMW Group DesignworksUSA to create a unique “Charging Experience” that rewards people for their decision to drive electric vehicles. The challenge was to create an experience that is easy to use, and can provide economy of scale for mass adoption in a competitive field. BMW Group DesignworksUSA designed the free Juice Bar charging stations using sustainable design practices to ensure that the UL approved Level one and Level two charge points deliver quality and the Garage Juice Bar’s brand promise to change the way people view EV charging.

Earlier this month, Cambridge, MA, and New Haven, CT, became America’s first locations to receive Garage Juice Bar electric vehicle charging stations.

While it may seem strange to offer free charging points - after all, electricity still costs money - The Garage Juice philosophy is to encourage the take-up of electric vehicles amongst the public. It is moral objective to help save the planet by reducing harmful polluting emissions.

“Charging a fee for this service is not in the best interest of our planet,” explains John Schmid, President of Garage Juice Bar. “These types of usage fees for charging are simply another obstacle delaying the wide scale use of fully electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles,” Schmid concludes.

If people see that there are the convenient facilities to own an electric vehicles, then they are more willing to consider buying one.

In addition to those already live in Massachusetts and Connecticut, Garage Juice Bar is currently installing ten EV charging stations in five San Francisco area garages through a grant from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District Transportation Fund for Clean Air. Further, Garage Juice Bar will be installing ten EV charging stations in Canopy DIA, a 3,500 space off-airport parking facility in Denver which is billed as the greenest parking facility on the planet. Looking ahead to future potential sites, grant applications were submitted to provide Garage Juice Bar charging stations to the City of Chicago and the City of Vancouver, Canada.

No London charge for MINI Diesels

2010-10-28T17:25:00.000+01:00

A review of the congestion charge scheme in London has seen the MINI One D and MINI Cooper D qualify for fee-free entry into the Capital's charging zone.

The MINI UK press statement:...
"The new London Congestion Charge structure just announced by Mayor of London Boris Johnson is further proof that MINI’s commitment to innovation and sustainability translate into real savings for MINI owners. Under the new Greener Vehicle Discount scheme MINI One D and MINI Cooper D Hatch models will be eligible for standard free of charge entry into the London Congestion Charge Zone from 4 January 2011 as cars emit just 99g of CO2 per kilometre.

As with all MINI models both the MINI One D and MINI Cooper D comply with the EU5 emission standard and they achieve the same low fuel consumption of 74.3 mpg and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km. These values are an absolute record for any series production car produced by the BMW Group. In addition to the high efficiency of the diesel engine in the MINI One D and Cooper D, under the MINIMALISM umbrella both cars employ a host of fuel-saving and emission-lowering technology including Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start-Stop, Gearshift Indicator and Electromechanical Power Steering. All of these technologies and the standard six-speed manual gearbox play a role in eking the most out of every drop of fuel while also minimising the tailpipe emissions.

The replacement of the Alternative Fuel Discount with the new Greener Vehicle Discount recognises that technological advances in traditional engine development are such that many vehicles which did not qualify for the Alternative Fuel Discount have a much better environmental performance than those that did qualify.

Jochen Goller, Director, MINI UK said “MINI has been the quintessential London car for the last 51 years, so we welcome this week’s news that our two cleanest and most efficient models can zip around the city free of charge. These models will join the 40 Congestion Charge exempt, zero emission, all electric MINI Es which are currently on trial in the south east of the country.”

To receive the 100% discount on the 99g/km MINI One D and MINI Cooper D Hatch, customers will need to register with Transport for London for the discount and make an annual £10 payment per vehicle.

Monte Carlo or Bust in a MINI Cooper (ITV1)

2010-10-24T10:40:00.001+01:00

Three couples hit the road on a mad-cap jaunt from London to Monte Carlo to discover the genius, glory and grub of France in this brand-new series for ITV1.

Paired up to embark on this travel adventure are Jack Dee and Ade Edmondson, in a VW camper van, Jodie Kidd and Julian Clary, in a Bentley convertible and Penny Smith and Rory McGrath, in a union jack bedecked MINI Cooper.

But this is no simple holiday; the couples are in competition to get under the skin of France and discover what makes our closest neighbour tick. As their journeys unfold taking in the stunning French countryside, winding around breath-taking mountains and cruising along the coastal roads the couples are tasked with collecting a total of three items that best represent the head, heart and stomach of each of the regions they are passing through.

The intrepid explorers are followed as they each find their own route through France and at the end of each stage of their journey they are judged on what they have learned and collected along the way. The overall winners are revealed in the stunning setting of Monte Carlo in Monaco.

In the first episode, the teams set off from Trafalgar Square and travel through Northern France on their way to Paris............

ITV1 Thursday, October 28th, 2010 9:00pm to 10:00pm

Monte Carlo or Bust is produced and directed by Andrew Fettis. The executive producers are Richard Cowles and Griff Rhys Jones.

The Making of the MINI WRC

2010-10-22T01:11:00.000+01:00

Courtesy of Bigblogg

Countryman runs out of alloy wheels for Germany

2010-10-20T12:37:00.001+01:00

The overwhelming popularity of the MINI Countryman in the UK and USA has resulted in a shortage of alloy wheels.

Bigblogg reports that MINI told German dealers that there will be a shortage of the 5-Star Single Spoke Alloy Wheels in 16-inch and the 5-Star Double Spoke in 17-inch guise, until about March 2011.

As a result some orders will be delivered to customers with basic 16-inch steel rims. However, costs are reduced to the customer and depending on the order and small print, the alloy wheels will be delivered at a later date.

Bigblogg states that MINI is reducing the price (excluding Cooper S models) because of the confusion and that customers could save €590 compared to the list price, but only for new order placed between November 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010.

Beachcomber going into production - with a smaller version too

2010-10-19T08:50:00.005+01:00

Autocar has said that MINI is working on two production versions of the Beachcomber concept.

AC states that one of the versions will stay true to the concept vehicle, first unveiled in Detroit earlier this year, while the second model will be a shorter three-door version which is being dubbed the Canyon Coupe...

The article also suggests that the Countryman's platform is being considered for the next generation of MINI Clubmans.

Sources at MINI have revealed some minor design changes to the original Beachcomber concept in the new drawings, with the most major being four proper doors being proposed to improve side impact resistance.

For the Canyon Coupe, it is suggested that it would be a three-door 'beach car', with four seats and possibly a permanent roof box to make up for the lack of boot space that a shortened platform would pose.

For the full article visit www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle.aspx?AR=253365

Paddy Hopkirk and Dave Richards go head-to-head in Minis

2010-10-19T00:29:00.009+01:00

Two rally legends are going head-to-head in MINIs in three weeks time when they take part in the RAC Brighton to London Future Car Challenge.

Hopkirk, who won the Monte Carlo Rally in a classic Mini, will drive the production MINI Cooper Diesel, while British and World Rally Champion, Richards, will drive a battery powered prototype MINI E.

“The Mini is an incredible car and this event will highlight its amazing versatility”, said David Richards. “I am really looking forward to the event and competing against Paddy to see who can be most efficient. However, I will have to damp down my competitive spirit, as will Paddy, to ensure we get the most out of our cars to try to win the trophy for each of our classes.”

There are over 60 other vehicles getting involved in the challenge and many leading manufacturers see this as a chance to see how their upcoming technology compares to the competition. Alongside the MINIs will be other low-emission, new energy vehicles, including two hydrogen-powered cars, Gordon Murray's carbon-shelled T.25 and an electric Tesla Roadster Sport.

The event takes place on Saturday November 6, 2010, from Madeira Drive, Brighton, and finishing at Regent Street, London. Spectating is free so why not go and check out the cars of the future (and send us some pics!)

www.futurecarchallenge.com

Special Edition MINI Soho Clubman to Tempt Value-Seekers

2010-10-17T10:10:00.005+01:00

Special Edition MINI Soho Clubman to Tempt Value-Seekers: "

MINI has increased its model range with the introduction of the value-packed, special edition MINI Soho Clubman models. Offering enhanced standard equipment levels over existing Clubman models, the MINI Soho edition will be available in MINI One, One D, Cooper, Cooper D and Cooper S guise.

An array of attractive options provide the MINI Soho Clubman models with an exclusive look and feel:
· Exclusive White Silver metallic paint with colour coded C-Pillars
· 17' Black Star Bullet alloy wheels
· Bi-Xenon headlights with black interior reflectors
· Anthracite headlining
· Piano Black interior trim
· 3-Spoke sport leather steering wheel
· White indicators

Model pricing is as follows
MINI One Soho Clubman £16.255
MINI One D Soho Clubman £17,275
MINI Cooper Soho Clubman £17,290
MINI Cooper D Soho Clubman £18,610
MINI cooper S Soho Clubman £19,870

These features provide approximately a 15% discount on the additional Soho specification over the standard specification of the standard models as shown below:

                                       One / One D    Cooper / Cooper D         Cooper S
White Silver metallic paint             £335                             £335                            £335
17' Black Star Bullet wheels         £1,185                          £860                             £395
Bi-Xenons with black
interior reflectors                           £480                            £480                            £480
Anthracite headlining                     £120    £120                            £120
Piano black interior trim                £140                            £140                             £90
3-Spoke sport leather
steering wheel                               £180                            £180                                £0
White indicators       £60                               £60                                 £0
Individual Option Total             £2,500                        £2,175                          £1,420
Pricing Applied with
15% Discount    £2,125                        £1,850                    £1,210
Customer Saving                       £375                            £325    £210

The MINI Soho Clubman models will be available from mid August, 2010 until late February 2011.
Special edition models have been hugely successful since the launch of the new MINI in July 2001. In recent years, editions carrying the monikers Graphite, and to celebrate MINIs 50th anniversary, Camden and Mayfair have set MINI owners apart from the pack and are highly sought after in the used car market. These editions have been instrumental in maintaining high MINI residual values.

In addition if you order you MINI Soho Clubman before 31st December you could get a year's insurance for as little as £99. Terms and Conditions apply click on the following link to find out more: http://bit.ly/Insuranceoffer.

"

MINI SD could be a 2-litre

2010-10-12T15:44:00.004+01:00

BMWBlog has reported that word from Munich is that the chiefs are considering using BMW's 2-litre turbodiesel engine to power the new SD models, instead of the much touted 1.6-litre turbodiesel units.

If true, it will provide a big boost in power for the new models as well as a smoother ride, and will see them sharing the same technology as in the BMW 1 Series line-up and 5 Series. In those models the engine outputs 177 and 184bhp respectively. Currently the Cooper D uses a 1.6-litre engine that delivers 110bhp.

Consumption figures are positive too, despite the hike in capacity. BMWBlog states consumption forecasts of 4.5 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres - or 62 miles to the gallon.

MINI sales update

2010-10-07T23:59:00.004+01:00

MINI UK has released sales date for the first nine months of 2010, showing a 10% increase on 2009's year-to-date figures. The firm has also stated that MINI is the eighth best-selling car in the UK.

The numbers are encouraging for the brand and show that the market is picking up after the recession. The news will come a little late for a number of agency staff who were laid off recently.

Elsewhere, MINI sales in the USA are slightly down compared to last year's YTD figures, but with the launch of the Countryman just weeks away in the States, this could be turned around by the end of 2010.

                       MINI UK           MINI USA
YTD 2010         32,820               34,588
YTD 2009         29,790               34,996
% Change        10.17%              -1.2%

UK Countryman Accessories pack revealed

2010-10-07T09:45:00.001+01:00

MINI UK has revealed details of an accessory pack available for the Countryman, which is on sale now.

Until March 31, 2011, the pack will cost £395 (including VAT, but excluding fitting), and will include additional headlights (spotlights), in either black or chrome; all-weather floor mats front and rear; a roof rack base support system.

In total, buying the pack of accessories, instead of individually, will save customers £60.

To find your local dealer, visit http://bit.ly/accessorypacks

MINI Scooter preview pictures released

2010-09-22T12:05:00.002+01:00

Our friends at biggblogg have scooped some preview pictures of the latest MINI concept, due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, which opens on October 2.

While the whole idea of a MINI scooter has come as somewhat of a surprise, the rationale cannot be faulted. Young-urbanites who dig the MINI brand, and those who just like the scooter, would no doubt be first in line, with commuters and enthusiasts following suit. With it a new mod and enthusiast community would be born.

Pictures courtesy of biggblogg

It's electric, it's forward-thinking, futuristic and leaves memories of an old petrol scooter coughing up a hill as a distant memory.

The concept pictures on biggblogg show three scooters in a mix of designs, (RAF/mod style white and navy; leather and black with gold trim, and a bold yellow and black), although we suspect that if production was approved customers would be able to customise their scooters much like with the saloons.

Pictures courtesy of biggblogg

The two-tone front end, with its large headlight and Mini-style indicators, comes with a flash of chrome and contrasting trim, with a large MINI badge under the light. One scooter is fitted with additional lamps, suggesting further mods would be available - which would indeed see a return to multiple lights and mirrors in some factions. The mirror caps again look to be customisable. Black beak-shaped wheelarches cover three-quarters of both the front and rear wheels.

Pictures courtesy of biggblogg

A large central circular binnacle houses the sat-nav and other functions from a touch screen and a speed gauge runs around its outer ring.

Pictures courtesy of biggblogg

The leg area looks spacious and backs into the headlamp area allowing for two storage compartments, perhaps big enough for a purse or wallet. The seating area is large enough for two, and this is indicated with two sets of foot padding on the scooters' footbase. The seat itself looks tough and well padded and the three scooters shown show a range of designs, shapes and textures.

Pictures courtesy of biggblogg

The rear end incorporates a largish handle scooping out from the back of the seat for passengers to hold on to. The will no doubt be storage under the seat, looking large enough for a few bags of shopping, and the rear lights are incorporated into the seat housing. Another MINI badge separates the two rear lights while the charging point sits just above the rear wheel. Even the colour of the charging point cover can be changed. The rear numberplate sits on the rear wheelarch.

The scooter is believed to be powered by an electric unit inside the rear wheel.

It doesn't take too much imagination to see why MINI decided to test the water with this concept as it certainly seems to be the right brand to appeal to the scooter target market, and make it even cooler own one. Tie that in with the enviromental issues, congestion charges, increasing traffic and fuel costs and it seems to tick all the right boxes.

Now to see what the official pictures bring...

Doctor Bem and the MINI Countryman Coolness

2010-09-20T08:30:00.002+01:00

Doctor Bem and the crazy MINI goal

2010-09-20T08:30:00.001+01:00

Doctor Bem and the MINI Countryman back seat

2010-09-20T08:30:00.000+01:00

Doctor Bem and the MINI Countryman hare hunt

2010-09-20T08:28:00.000+01:00

Doctor Bem and the MINI Countryman Tattoo

2010-09-20T08:27:00.000+01:00

Doctor Bem and the MINI Countryman submarine crashtest

2010-09-20T08:26:00.001+01:00

Doctor Bem and the insane MINI Countryman parking test

2010-09-20T08:26:00.000+01:00

The first MINI Countryman rolls off the production line

2010-09-16T14:36:00.000+01:00

MINI has filmed the very first production line Countryman rolling over the finishing line. It's painted in the iconic red and white livery of the Italian Job Coopers, and even more surprisingly, it's a Cooper D!

Reports claim that 2010's production of the MINI Countryman have already sold out, and that those wishing to buy the new four-door car will have to wait until 2011 for delivery.

No doubt once the hype regarding MINI's official return to rallying, in the Countryman, begins to gather pace next year, this will also inspire many more people to place an order for the latest addition to the MINI family.

MINI Countryman TV Commercial: Wool.

2010-09-16T14:29:00.000+01:00

MINI Countryman TV Commercial: Emergency.

2010-09-16T14:28:00.000+01:00

Monty quits MiniWorld

2010-09-09T15:14:00.000+01:00

MiniWorld magazine Editor, Monty Watkins, has resigned from his post following discussions by owner IPC to sell the publication.

Monty has become an iconic figure in the Mini scene after joining MiniWorld back in 1996. At the helm for an impressive 14 years, he fought a running sales battle against new upstart magazine, Mini Magazine.

Under his leadership MiniWorld became even closer to the scene, sponsoring and organising a number of runs and events, as well as speaking up for the classic Mini scene to new brand owners, BMW, about some of its actions towards Mini-related businesses. He was famously involved in arranging the apology given to Mini club presidents by MINI/BMW at the 50th Anniversary IMM at Longbridge in 2009.

While there is no confirmation of a sale of MiniWorld Magazine yet, it is thought that a sale to Kent publisher, Kelsey Publishing, is likely to go through by the end of 2010.

Monty will continue to contribute to MiniWorld in a freelance capacity.

What does this mean for MiniWorld?
Well it should be no surprise to most people to know that the Mini scene is declining. Maybe not spiritually, but as far as buying magazines go, it's not the rosy picture is was 11 or 12 years ago when the Mini was still in production.

The end of production has now put the both printed Mini publications in a predicament where there is little new information coming to light about the classic Mini. With the internet, mobile communication and social networking all blossoming what information that is out there can be delivered in an instant rather than them having to wait for four weeks and part with an ever increasing amount of money.

Put bluntly, sales are falling and cost are growing, and inevitably there comes a point where it is not economical to produce such publications. Is this the case at MiniWorld, or even across IPC's niche mags?

MiniWorld looks to have been heavily supported in its promotional activity, but any sale will throw any future plans into doubt. If anyone can afford to support such a niche magazine, it's a company like IPC, and with the likelihood that the magazine will be sold to a smaller publisher will put that financial support under a lot more scrutiny before every penny is spent. I would even speculate that MiniWorld has punched above its weight considering its estimated incomings and outgoings, but it will most certainly have to tighten its belt again now.

It's too early to say exactly what any sale will do to MiniWorld, but make no mistake, this is likely to be a detrimental move for the magazine and Mini owners, whether you like the magazine or not.

MINI TV Commercial: The Last Spot

2010-09-09T00:58:00.000+01:00

Cool Mini Cooper 1.3i Vice City

2010-09-07T11:10:00.001+01:00

Jessica Watson embarks on a MINI adventure

2010-09-07T11:03:00.000+01:00

Jessica Watson embarks on a MINI adventure: "

PrestigeWay

Jessica today took the helm of her new MINI Cooper in Brisbane, with a private driving lesson from former Australian motorsport champion, now chief MINI ...
See all stories on this topic »"

East Bay MINI Rocks Motor-Tober With A MINI Rally

2010-09-07T00:42:00.000+01:00

East Bay MINI Rocks Motor-Tober With A MINI Rally: "Get ready for East Bay MINI's Rally in honor of Motor-Tober set for October 3, 2010. The rally will start at East Bay MINI's showroom at 4340 Rosewood Dr, Pleasanton CA and IT IS ENTIRELY FREE!

Expect a great BBQ, fun, games and prizes along with a run through some of East Alameda County's best MINI roads. Day of event registration starts at 8:00 a.m., but, you can also register on-line here. The Rally starts at 9:00 a.m. and lunch will be at noon back at East Bay MINI. We look forward to seeing all of you there!

MINI Countryman Get In The "Flow"

2010-09-07T00:06:00.001+01:00

MINI Countryman Get In The "Flow": "MINI's cool new Countryman advertisement and video of the making thereof.

The Commercial 'Flow'

The Making Of 'Flow'

[Source: MINI YouTube Channel]