Mini Superleggera Vision Concept unveiled

Ready to make its debut at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2014 at Lake Como in Italy, the Mini Superleggera Vision Concept represents a unique collaborative effort between an iconic automaker and the equally iconic Turin-based coachbuilder, Touring Superleggera. This electric 2-seat roadster brings together classic and contemporary in a way that Anders Warming, Head of Mini Design describes as being energetic and minimalistic. He adds that it possesses an emotional beauty that combines the past and future of the auto industry. Louis de Fabribeckers, Head of design of Touring Superleggera echoes Warming’s sentiments noting: "In this car all unnecessary equipment or decoration is sacrificed, as performance is gained through lightness and efficiency of the bodywork and interior. The Italian touch is in the proportions and the typical waistline."

Also: The Class of 2015 — New Vehicles Ready to Roll

Finished in Como Blue, the hand-formed aluminum bodywork of the Mini Superleggera Vision has an elegant presence.  The classic Touring shoulder line is complemented by a host of tasteful details ranging from Mini-style accent "stripes" embossed into the hood to a subtle center fin on the rear deck that extends into the lower valance. Up front, a distinctive take on the Mini’s signature circular lamps and hexagonal grille motif sees the lights framing a closed-off intake that offers a hint to its zero-emissions powertrain – although no mention is made as to exactly what that may be. The car’s gracefully tapered tail has its own striking touch in the form of lighting elements configured in the form of a Union Jack. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) used for the splitter, side sills and diffuser adds sporty flair. The concept rides on unique 19-inch black-finish alloy wheels.

Also: 10 Coolest Cars Under $25,000

Inside, this 2-seat showpiece reprises the seamless Mini/Touring Superleggera collaboration with the stylishly Spartan cabin combining hand-formed aluminum and fine leather trim. The dash is a modern take on the traditional circular "Center Instrument" that now incorporates a touch-sensitive controller as well as an analog clock and the activator for the Mini Superleggera Vision’s in-car camera. As a final flourish, the structural door-pull supports also form a Union Jack design.  

Although Mini has yet to confirm anything about future plans for the Superleggera Vision, it’s believed the car points the way to a possible future model that would be a rival to cars like upcoming Mazda MX-5. We can only hope so. 

More Mini News…

We’ve driven the all-new 2014 Mini Cooper and Cooper S Hardtops

The Mini Clubman Concept previews an upcoming "New Mini" model

The 2014 Mini Paceman and Countryman offer new JCW trim packages