MINI Rocketman rumored to be set for production

Autocar reports that the MINI Rocketman is already set for production.  BMW boss for sales and marketing boss Ian Robertson has given clear indications that the MINI Rocketman could make it into production and that many future models will be based on this design. “We are good at looking at history and interpreting a future for it. The themes in the car are not just about a smaller Mini,” he said. “Lightweight construction, and new types of components will go on to Minis. The BMW i-concept [lightweight and alternative energy] will be available to all members of the group,” he continued.

Robertson emphasized that a production Rocketman and the current Countryman five-door Mini would not be a threat to MINI’s traditional three-doordesign . “The core of the Mini brand is always going to be the Mini three door and Convertible,” he said.

The study car brings back the exterior dimensions of the classic MINI, but with an infusion of new ideas and design language. The unique 3+1 seater features three doors and has length just over 3 meters, cater to the urban lifestyle in big cities. MINI Rocketman makes use of lightweight design principles and an interior geared to maximum driving fun and unbeatable variability. A carbon spaceframe construction also reduces the weight of the vehicle. Wide-opening doors with double-hinge joints and integrated sills are introduced in this new concept as well.

The MINI Rocketman’s production is expected to begin in 2012.

Source: Autocar