Mini Vision Urbanaut may be the minivan into the future

Remember the Mini Vision Urbanaut concept first seen at BMW’s NEXTGen event last 2020, a pill-shaped people-carrier with autonomous driving features and sustainable construction? Well, Mini and BMW have built an operating prototype of the Vision Urbanaut. The real-life working style of Mini’s vision for mobility can make its world-premiere this July 1, 2021, at the DLD Summer conference in Munich, Germany.

“With this eyes fixed on the near future, we developed a concept with the Mini Vision Urbanaut, of how exactly we may take the Mini attributes in to the future of mobility and interpret them in a typically Mini way,” said Bernd Körber, Head of Mini.

Mini has perfectly encapsulated the ‘chill and wanderlust’ vibe using its Vision Urbanaut. For example, the trunk seat bench configures multiple seating and lying positions, and the backlit loop can dim or brighten for maximum effect. Meanwhile, you obtain a central folding table with a desk lamp in the centre area.

Also, Vision Urbanaut includes a wide-opening side door and a fold-up windscreen “that creates a welcoming scene that blurs the boundaries between your inside and outside,” said Mini, however the fold-up windshield is, indeed, a welcome feature when relaxing at the campsite.

Measuring around 4.46-meters long, it provides maximum cabin space with the tiniest possible footprint, reminding us of VW’s iconic Type 2 Microbus, which VW can be reviving because the ID.Buzz EV.

Needless to say, you still need to operate a vehicle finished ., and Mini obliges having an all-electric powertrain, the facts which remain unknown at the moment. However, may very well not have to because it has automated driving functions. But in the event that you insist upon driving it, tapping your finger provides out the pedals and tyre.

However the biggest draw is sustainability. The Mini Vision Urbanaut features more recycled and sustainable materials like wool, polyester, and Tencel. Furthermore, the ground sections and tyre feature recyclable cork, as the interior is without anything resembling leather or chrome.

The very best part? Mini is presenting a driveable model rather than just a static prototype. We’re not entirely sure if the Vision Urbanaut is entering production soon, but don’t be surprised if it finds dealerships within the next several years. If anything, the upcoming DLD Summer conference in Munich gives Mini a concept if the Vision Urbanaut is ripe for production.