Canoo will build the MINI Traveler for BMW

In 2020, MINI presented the Vision Urbanaut prototype, a kind of minivan with which the brand wanted to explore the possibility of launching a more familiar model than the current Countryman and Clubman. According to a report published by the German specialized press, this model will go into production in the middle of the decade.

Looking ahead to 2027, MINI aims for half of its sales to correspond to electric models, with plans to abandon internal combustion engines as of 2030. For this reason, between 2023 and 2024 the British firm will completely renew its offer with the launch of three new electric models.

The first of these will be the fourth generation MINI Hatch 3-door, which will be reduced in size compared to the model currently on sale. Above will be the MINI Aceman, a crossover just 4 meters long called to replace the 5-door, MINI Hatch. The third generation MINI Countryman for its part will grow to approach 4.50 meters in length, as it will be the brother of the BMW X1/iX1.

While the Hatch and Aceman will be exclusively electric (the current thermal Hatch will continue to be on sale for some time after undergoing extensive restyling), the Countryman will also be available with gasoline and diesel engines. The Clubman for its part will be discontinued in the short term, being replaced by the Traveler.

MINI Vision Urbanaut

The MINI Traveler will be produced in the United States

The electric Hatch and Aceman will be made in China in collaboration with Great Wall, a strategy that MINI would be looking to replicate with the Traveler: according to the aforementioned report, the minivan will be produced in the United States by the startup Canoo, which means that it will also be exclusively electric.

BMW would be interested in collaborating with Canoo as it currently does not have a base that would allow it to profitably build the vehicle on its own. Therefore, the MINI Traveler will not use the well-known FAAR platform of the Bavarian group, but the modular architecture developed by Canoo for its vehicles.

MINI Vision Urbanaut

“MINI is working on the development of a new vehicle for the premium compact segment. This will satisfy many customers’ desires for space and comfort. With the MINI Vision Urbanaut, a lot of creative solutions were presented in this area.”

Elenor Kling

A tech lover and generally a car enthusiast who likes to do a lot of research and share knowledge.

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