MINI STRIP showcases sustainable design

MINI is shining a light on sustainability with its one-off STRIP concept car, co-created with fashion designer Paul Smith. The car was styled according to the principles of ‘maximum reduction’, and to show off the raw materials used in its construction. Instead of being fully painted, the bodywork has been left unfinished, except for a thin transparent covering to stave off corrosion.

The STRIP’s exterior also features untreated 3D-printed parts made from recycled plastic, with visible screws to highlight the simplicity of dismantling the vehicle at the end of its service life. To help improve the electric MINI’s range, it also features a blanked off grille and wheel fairings made from clear Perspex, that’s also said to save weight. Recycled Perspex was also chosen for a large panoramic roof.

Similar steps inside have led to a radical stripping out of the cabin, with much of the bodyshell now in view. This has been painted blue – a specific request of Paul Smith – for an eye-catching effect, that helps it feel ‘bare, yet dressed at the same time.’ The dashboard has also come in for radical alterations, with a large semi-transparent section, and the traditional round central element replaced by a space for the driver’s smartphone. This connects to the car and becomes the media hub of the car.

Physical controls are limited to the centre stack, where toggle power window switches and the start/stop button are found. The interior is free from leather and chrome, with the seats upholstered in a knitted fabric that can be fully recycled. The floor mats are recycled rubber and the dashboard topper, door cards and parcel shelf are made from recycled cork. Taking inspiration from road bicycles, the steering wheel is wrapped in handlebar tape.