What's all this about?
Mini is drip-feeding more information about the forthcoming new hatchback, which is scheduled to be unveiled in September. The all-new car will be available in both petrol and electric versions, and now Mini has announced a new interior design graced with a 9.4-inch circular OLED display.
It all looks a bit like the original...
That’s the idea, although Mini is hoping it will all feel a bit fresher than Alec Issigonis’ original. Nevertheless, the new dashboard layout is heavily inspired by the original Mini, renowned for its centrally positioned circular speedometer in the cabin. And the display is powered by the latest Mini Operating System 9, which, for the first time, is based on the Android Open Source Project software stack. According to Mini, that means it’ll be more responsive and more powerful than before. It should have more online connectivity, too, thanks to an optional 5G connection.
Sounds clever. What else will it do?
For a kick-off, the appearance of the infotainment system will dynamically adapt based on the selected driving mode, referred to as 'Experiences' by Mini. The standard three Experience modes include Core, Green, and Go-Kart, which respectively correspond to normal, eco, and sport settings. Each mode will feature distinct colours, and Mini will provide additional options such as Balance, Timeless, Vivid Trail, and Personal.
In the Timeless experience, the circular OLED display will transform into a nostalgic speedometer reminiscent of the original Mini, complete with a similar typeface and an off-white colour scheme. Additionally, Mini has meticulously curated various sounds to complement the electric version, blending engine sounds from their past combustion engine models, including the classic Mini and Mini John Cooper Works GP, with a futuristic interpretation of the 'Core' driving sound.
Anything else?
Oh, we’re just getting started. Owners can upload their favourite images to the car's display using the Mini smartphone app. They can also share a digital key with friends and family through the app, as the car can automatically detect and utilise the digital key stored on the smartphone, eliminating the need for a physical key.
The new Mini will also incorporate cloud-based navigation, significantly enhancing performance compared to previous generations. These enhancements include faster dynamic route calculations and real-time traffic updates to help avoid congestion. For the electric MINI, the navigation system will ensure the car arrives at its destination with a minimum of 10 per cent battery charge remaining. It will also optimise the journey by factoring in charging times and adding new charging stations if the initially planned stops become unavailable, utilising live data.
Well that sounds useful, but a bit dull...
Ah, there’s more fun to be had. During charging, occupants can enjoy games through a new AirConsole app in the Mini Connected Store. These games are tailored to the system and cover a range of genres, from racing and sports-based games to quizzes and jump-and-run style games, ensuring entertainment while waiting.
Popular apps like Spotify have also been integrated into Operating System 9, making it easy for users to connect their accounts to the car via a QR code scan. Furthermore, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be available wirelessly on the new system, offering greater convenience and functionality.
Dave Humphreys - 27 Jul 2023
