History of Mini
Few cars can rival the iconic status of the MINI. Launched in 1959 by the British Motor Corporation under the design plans of Sir Alec Issigonis, this pint-sized automobile has gone on to gain huge popularity worldwide. Famous for its cameos in such films as 'The Italian Job' and more recently in 'The Bourne Identity', the MINI brand image is second to none for timeless style and fun.
Experiencing its heyday in the 1960s, MINI captured the imagination of countless celebrities and perhaps most notably received considerable attention courtesy of The Beatles. The defining feature of the MINI is its diminutive dimensions and highly customisable body. Ever unique, MINI has come to symbolise the compact car with its engineers refusing to sideline passenger space and storage in order to achieve its aim of compact manoeuvrability around tight city roads.
MINI body styles can be configured to match their owner's specifications and the roof is frequently given a contrasting paintwork makeover. Dedicated owner's events are commonplace and MINI has gathered a loyal cult following over the years.
Best-selling models in the current MINI range include the One, One Convertible, One Clubman, John Cooper Works, First and the Cooper and Countryman ranges. When BMW took over the MINI empire in 2000 (introducing its new stylised capital brand name) they created an altogether larger vehicle which is still classed as a compact model.
In a bid to make their vehicles more environmentally friendly, MINI launched their 'MINIMALISM' campaign with features such as Engine Intelligence, Auto Start/Stop Function and Brake Energy Regeneration to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in their cars.