Mini has teamed up with fashion designer Pasul Smith to create the ‘Strip’ – a back-to-basics concept car that shines the spotlight on sustainability.
Reviving a partnership that started in the late 1990s when Smith helped to create a special edition of the classic Mini, this time it’s to create a one-off model that explores the ‘less is more’ approach.
Beginning with a Mini Electric, the car hasn’t even been properly painted, but instead sprayed with a thin film that aims to prevent corrosion. It also uses recycled Perspex as an alternative to glass, most notably for the panoramic roof, while the grille trim and wheel covers also use the same material.
It’s the interior where things become even more back-to-basics, though, with the majority of interior trim removed, and then some being replaced by various recycled materials. While leather-free, Mini has introduced a host of cork elements, including for the door cards, dashboard and parcel shelf. The firm reckons this could be a material more commonly used in production cars in the future due to its rigidity and soft feel.
Elsewhere, the touchscreen has been removed, with the usual circular dial just leaving a slate that a user can connect their phone to. Even the steering wheel has been pared back.
Paul Smith’s typical bright colours have been introduced, though, including five colourful stripes on the door, along with a neon green charging flap. Bright orange seatbelts and door pulls made from climbing wire also help to add a bit of flair.
Talking about the new concept, Smith said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to rethink the iconic Mini. I know and love the existing car, but by respecting the past and looking to the future we have created something very special.
“I feel very privileged that the Mini team has given me the confidence and freedom to think laterally about the approach to the design of the car. Together, I think we have created something truly unique, by going back to basics, reducing things down and stripping the car.”
Though nothing resembling the Mini Strip is likely to enter production, the British brand says it will be used as a ‘catalyst for more sustainable use of resources in automotive design’.
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