MINI will has revealed their compact van for business and leisure, to be the first premium model in the small car-based van segment. Not the hugest or most useful van on the block, but surely one of the smartest statement for your business.
The MINI Clubvan Concept proves that style can also be practical, and that practicality can be attractive. The MINI Clubman-based concept car combines all of the driving fun and distinctive design for which MINI is renowned, with an increased load-carrying capability. The Clubvan concept opens the door to a completely new market for MINI, premium small businesses who want to combine sharp driving dynamics with low cost of ownership, while also making a style statement with their company van.
[portfolio_slideshow]Over the years the ability to adapt goes back to the heart of MINI’s heritage. I remember sitting in the back of a MINI Butchers Van as early as sometime in the sixties, shortly after the car’s birth the Morris Mini Van was born. Now, more than 50 years on, the MINI Clubvan Concept is coming soon. Not finally announced for production, but rumours say it will be soon.
Limiting the car to two seats creates the capacity needed by small business owners day to day. The car Minivan naturally is suited to a whole world of customisation potential. The flat load area extends from the split rear doors right up to a partition grille behind the two seats making maximum use of the interior’s depth. Six recessed attachment loops use bungie straps to hold cargo. The fixed partition grille, made from solid aluminium in the lower part and a stainless steel honeycombe grating, ensures items stowed in the rear won’t fall into the front cabin.
Exterior design cuts a distinctive figure.
The MINI Clubvan Concept shares the same exterior dimensions as the MINI Clubman. The exterior of the car marks it out immediately as a MINI, offering customers the opportunity to combine their need for a practical, compact and easy-to-run to run van with the appeal of individual style and distinctive design, synonymous with the MINI brand.
The MINI Clubvan Concept is finished in British Racing Green paintwork, which extends to the roof, C-pillars and exterior mirror caps. The rear side windows are opaque with polycarbonate sections and are painted in the car’s body colour. The rear doors feature heavily tinted glass making it difficult to see into the load compartment.
This ultra-versatile MINI can carry both its cargo and its business’s promotional message in a uniquely stylish way. The unbroken paintwork along the car’s flanks offers extensive scope for individualisation and the use of larger graphics.
The Concept showcases how signwriting might look on a MINI Clubvan. Possibly a van for a sign writing business wasn’t a good choice, I do see problems with equipment fitting in, but for many businesses it must be one of the best looking small vans out there.