In keeping with the times, MINI will inject the ultra-sporty performance characteristics of its John Cooper Works models with even greater efficiency from July 2012 with the introduction of a new-generation engine and other far-reaching powertrain innovations. Fresh from an intensive course of further development, the twin-scroll turbo engine develops the same levels of output and torque as its predecessor, but will make drivers’ hearts beat faster with its even quicker responses and stoke their admiration with substantially reduced fuel consumption and emissions. A much broader spread of MINIMALISM technology helps to enhance the efficiency of the John Cooper Works models, and all members of the sub-brand’s line-up can now be fitted as an option with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Added to which, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman comes with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as standard.

New-generation engine for the John Cooper Works models offers instantaneous power delivery and a restrained appetite for fuel.

An outstanding baseline concept and a constant flow of innovations provide the basis for sustained success in race competition and beyond. Indeed, a rigorously applied strategy of further development has also given the road-spec John Cooper Works models a decisive edge in their respective segments. Expertise refined over years of motor sport involvement has ensured ultra-sporty driving fun by perfecting the interplay of a powerful engine, advanced chassis technology, and bespoke exterior and interior design elements. And so the John Cooper Works models are poised to embark on the new season stronger than ever and with fresh power under the bonnet.

The family of elite athletes in the MINI ranks welcomes another new member in the shape of the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. The five-door model is fitted with a particularly powerful variant of the new-generation engine. Its 160 kW/218 hp is channelled through an all-wheel-drive system to deliver a new take on outstanding performance that can be enjoyed not only on the road but also over rough terrain. Peak torque of 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) is available between 1,900 and 5,600 rpm, and the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman dashes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.0 seconds – regardless of whether the power flows through the standard six-speed manual gearbox or the optional six-speed automatic. Top speed is 225 km/h / 140 mph (automatic: 223 km/h / 139 mph). Equally impressive is average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres / 38.2 mpg (automatic: 7.9 l/100 km / 35.8 mpg) and CO2emissions of 172 grams (184 g) per kilometre.

The new-generation engine can also be found in the MINI John Cooper Works, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, MINI John Cooper Works Convertible, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe and MINI John Cooper Works Roadster. The further developed powerplant is based on the unit in the MINI Cooper S and likewise uses a twin-scroll turbocharger, petrol direct injection and variable valve control based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC system. This throttle-free load control technology optimises both the responsiveness of the engine and its efficiency; lightning-fast reactions to the driver’s requests for power go hand-in-hand with a restrained appetite for fuel.

The technical make-up of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine – which sports a John Cooper Works logo on its cover – has a direct link to the development of race-trim engines and has been honed exclusively for the John Cooper Works models. Its cylinder block and bearing mounts are made from aluminium and join forces with reinforced pistons, a particularly high-strength cylinder head and low-weight crankshafts. The exhaust valves are sodium-filled to help provide the extra cooling required by a turbocharged engine, and the intake camshaft features infinite phase adjustment.

The turbocharger, meanwhile, develops even greater charge pressure than the engine in the MINI Cooper S Coupe. The likewise bespoke exhaust system can be identified from the outside by its polished stainless steel twin tailpipes.

The engine produces its maximum output of 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm, while peak torque of 260 Newton metres (192 lb-ft) is on tap between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm. The overboost function allows this figure to be raised to 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) for a short time between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm.

The new engine links up as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox tuned to suit its performance characteristics. However, the John Cooper Works models can now also be ordered as an option with a six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function. The automatic also allows the driver to change gear manually using either the selector lever or the shift paddles on the steering wheel.

MINIMALISM technology delivers top performance and increased range.

In addition to the improvements made to the engine’s efficiency, the more extensive use of fuel consumption and emissions-reducing technology makes the John Cooper Works models more credible ambassadors than ever for the principle of MINIMALISM. Only rarely will the unparalleled driving fun need to be interrupted to refuel, thanks to technology such as Brake Energy Regeneration, which concentrates power generation for the in-vehicle network during periods under braking and on the overrun. Working in tandem with the manual gearbox, the Auto Start/Stop function switches the engine off automatically when the car stops at junctions and in traffic tailbacks, while the Shift Point Display advises the driver of the most efficiency-enhancing moment to change gear. The electric power steering also does its bit to reduce fuel consumption, its electric motor only using energy when power assistance is actually needed. This array of innovations has helped optimise the balance between driving fun and fuel consumption displayed by all the John Cooper Works models. Indeed, fuel consumption in the EU test cycle has been cut by up to 0.5 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the model. The MINI John Cooper Works races from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) on the way to a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph). Average fuel consumption stands at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions come in at 153 grams (165 g) per kilometre.

The MINI John Cooper Works Clubman also blends imposing acceleration – 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds (automatic: 7.0 sec) – and a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph) with exemplary fuel economy of 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres / 42.2 mpg (automatic: 7.2 l/100 km / 39.2 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 155 grams (167 g) per kilometre. The MINI John Cooper Works Convertible sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.9 seconds (automatic: 7.1 sec) and reaches a top speed of 235 km/h / 146 mph (233 km/h / 145 mph). Yet its fuel consumption is just 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg) and CO2 emissions are limited to 157 grams (169 g) per kilometre.

A 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 6.4 seconds (automatic: 6.6 sec) makes the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe the fasting-accelerating of these elite athletes, and it also boasts a top speed of 240 km/h / 149 mph (238 km/h / 148 mph). This outstanding sporting potency belies average fuel consumption of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 153 grams (165 g) per kilometre. The MINI John Cooper Works Roadster reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) and continues on to a top speed of 237 km/h / 147 mph (235 km/h / 146 mph). Its average fuel consumption comes in at 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg), with CO2 emissions recorded as 157 grams (169 g) per kilometre.

Racing feeling and unmistakable style.
All John Cooper Works models combine their stand-out sporting potential with unmistakable looks and special equipment features which accentuate the feeling of race competition both inside the car and out. Standard specification includes the Sport Button (which allows the driver to tweak the car’s accelerator responses and steering characteristics), particularly powerful brakes, the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) for the driven axle, plus bespoke 17-inch light-alloy wheels (MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: 18-inch) and runflat tyres. The likewise standard John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit optimises both the airflow over and around the cars, and their visual impact. Exclusive paint finishes and roof colours, plus an ultra-sporty interior ambience with special seat upholstery variants and interior trim elements, add further bespoke touches. Customers can now order Striped Alloy and Pepper White interior trim elements, for example. And the standard-fitted sports steering wheel now features a John Cooper Works logo in the lower section of the centre spoke.

The John Cooper name has embodied the successful relationship between the British small car and sporting competition for several decades. It was back in the 1960s that the legendary sports car designer hit upon the idea of injecting a fresh dose of enjoyment into everyday road driving, and extra-potent variants of the classic MINI soon carried his name. Today, the MINI sub-brand John Cooper Works represents the epitome of race-track feeling and stand-out performance. The six elite athletes that make up the John Cooper Works range, along with options and accessories designed to enhance the agility of any MINI and lend all variants of the car a more defined sporting character, create a powerful advertisement for the brand’s motor sport genes.

Fresh out of the oven, here comes our very first line of the Official MINI Mob tee shirt series. It’s fun, it’s cool and it’s customisable! Pick your tee design, shirt color, print color and even have your name and MINI model printed as well!

Yes, we ship overseas! Contact us for more details and visit the official forum thread here 

In our very first feature of The MINI Mob Owner’s Spotlight, we talk to The MINI Mob’s very own Forum Moderator, MINI fanatic and all-round nice guy, Steven Ng. Steven is the proud owner of a R56 MINI Cooper S that echoes elegance, yet packs pizzazz. Customized with a fiery red roof laced with JCW upgrades, this little number never fails to turns heads on the streets.

About the Owner

Steven is a passionate individual that’s a designer by profession. He believes that his current job as a sales manager in a car dealership helps scratch his itch for automobiles. Not forgetting the fact that he’s one of the few that are paid to get behind the wheel of exotic cars. He dedicates his free time to working on his MINI and his family and pets.

Purchasing the MINI

Why were you looking for a new car?

I’ve always been a fan of the MINI, but practicality and affordability were an issue at the time.

After test-driving a 2^nd hand R52 MINI Cabriolet for 3 days, I was sold on the 2^nd night. 52,500km down the road, I decided to switch over to a year old Cooper S hatch and the rest is history.

That’s when I discovered that once you get into a MINI, there’s no getting out.

What other cars where you looking at before you chose the MINI?

Prior to buying my second MINI, I tried the Scirocco 2.0 TFSI. The drive was immensely quick; DSG is idiot-proof and build quality is supreme, but it didn’t seem to engage me the way a MINI did.

After owning a high-performance hatch, my next choice was a Renault Megane RS. The design was mind-blowing, however, my only gripe was that it was only available in manual transmission, which would make re-sale slightly more challenging. Plus, I wasn’t allowed a test drive. I would love using a manual transmission to be honest, but I had to stop thinking that I was in Sepang (Malaysia) all the time for my own good.

What made you decide on the MINI in general?

It’s iconic and timeless design, it’s perfect harmony of form and function and the fact that it has so much character.

Why did you pick the color & options you did?

I’ve been dreaming of a Pepper White MINI since the first release of the R50. My first Cooper Cabriolet was originally in Cool Blue Metallic, but I sent it in for a complete color change within my first week of buying it.

I chose Pepper White simply because it blends well with everything and it exudes its own persona, perhaps like how a sepia tone changes the mood of a photograph. I personally prefer warm, earth tones that are evident even in my own home.

Naturally biased, a relatively new Pepper White car caught my eye. Its previous owner had already done a handsome amount of work on it, so that was a big plus. It had the expensive dealer fitted JCW tuning kit, JCW Brembo brake kit, an upgraded stereo, and lightweight Advan rims in bright chrome (which, I didn’t really fancy).

Modifications

Have you done anything to modify the car looks wise?

On the first day, I went to get bonnet stripes done, but I got bored after about 6 months because my MINI looked like everyone else’s. I also fell in love with the black and red combo for the new JCW MINIs at that time. So, I spent a couple of hours personalizing my MINI digitally in Photoshop, and posting visuals up on facebook for opinions. My end result turned out to be what I thought was bold, loud and totally out of this world, especially for me.

I popped the hood of a Ferrari F430 painted in Rosso Corsa that was sitting in my showroom, and used that paint code for my roof and wing mirrors. I also got my rims sanded and primed for a coat of matte black.

I topped it off with a visit to the decal shop for the 2011 style JCW stripes with the red pinstripes and Voila! Chilli Pepper!

Have you done anything to modify the car in terms of performance?

The essentials, such as the complete JCW tuning kit and that tasty looking JCW Brembo brake kit were already fitted. Bringing the car to the cornering limit rather frequently made me realize I needed a lower and stiffer suspension setup. So I installed the JCW suspension system, complete with the up rated sway bars but used lowering springs instead.

The car is an absolute blast to drive now, though it can be a little too rigid when negotiating bad roads at times. Overtaking other cars at sweeping bends makes me feel like my car goes against the law of physics!

Other mods are just minor things like a hi-flow air filter element in the JCW air box, and a turbo discharge pipe.

My car is pretty stock, running mostly factory-approved upgrades.

What are you planning next for the car as far as mods go?

I think my list of to-dos for mods end here. I always feel that there is a mechanical limit due to the small displacement of the engine without utilizing forged pistons and strengthened cylinder heads.

Next will be how much power the transmission can take. Something will give way, and I don’t want to go there. 200bhp in this little car is already a mighty accolade, but like everything in life, being well balanced is the most important attribute. Having a car that is too fast obstructs you from reaching and staying on the peak power band, and that kills the fun.

For this JCW tuned Cooper S, I’m already above the speed limit of under 7 seconds. It’s great…for now.

Aesthetic mods will always be an open option with the MINI. I can do whatever I want whenever I want. All you need are good ideas (and money, of course).

Closing Thoughts

The MINI is without a doubt, a car one should own and experience at least once in their lifetime.

Any dislikes about your car?

My only gripe is the windscreen. It’s so upright that when anything hits, be it gravel or sand, it leaves behind a ‘galaxy of stars’.

Each MINI is customized to suit its owner. What do you think your MINI says?

I think my MINI says Caution! Might explode in your face.

What advice would you give to someone that’s considering a MINI?

If you are considering to buy your first MINI, STOP CONSIDERING! It will change your life and you WILL become a happier person.

What is your opinion on the MINI Community in Singapore in comparison to those overseas? What would you like to see more of in the MINI Singapore Community? 

I think the main difference between MINI communities in foreign countries vs the local scene is simply a matter of scale. The local car market is already bound by the relatively small population we have, not to mention the government’s shrinking quota of COEs (Certificate of Entitlement). Compare that with MINI’s market share and you can literally count the numbers.

The lack of numbers makes it difficult to acquire resources to create good content and generate good topics to build the community and promote interaction.

It’s clearly more evident that in the foreign MINI communities, artists and businesses thrive on collaboration, sales, and the exchange of information because they have the means to reach much more like-minded MINI owners.

I would love to see funkier, guerilla styled campaigns that are uniquely MINI, like the DOMINION campaign in celebration of MINI’s 50^th Anniversary and the recent MINI Traffic Jamming campaign. I believe there is always a mischievous side in all of us, no matter what your age. With the MINI, we get away with that side of us, in style!

In the forums, MINI news from our neighboring countries such as Thailand, Taiwan and Japan are always an exciting read because we get to see what kind of work they are doing to their MINIs, regardless of mechanical upgrades or cosmetic mods and even some mind-bending stuff we can’t get to do here.

Feature articles such as this one is also a great way for people to understand the ‘MINI way of life’ and how our MINI is more than just ‘a car’. -

So if you come across Steven and his Chilli Pepper on the streets (look out for our MINI Mob Decal if you’re still skeptical), don’t be shy to give him a friendly honk or high beam! You can also find Steven in our Forum under the nickname MINImalist.

MINI press conference

Geneva, March 6, 2012

Bonjour et bienvenue chez MINI! Can you believe it was two years ago that we introduced the MINI Countryman right here in Geneva? It began as an idea to give fans even more MINI and the Countryman turned into a global sensation.

Switzerland, of course, is no exception to this success. The Countryman’s 4 wheel-drive craves those mountain-road hairpin turns en route to the next winter adventure.  And for many of us, nothing says winter adventure like snowboarding. It’s all about creativity, individuality, and freedom of expression, making Burton Snowboards and MINI a natural fit.

This year, MINI continued as a partner of the Burton European Open snowboarding competition, which wrapped up just a few days ago. Mother Nature brought the snow. MINI brought the fun. And the world-class snowboarders at the Swiss resort of Laax brought it all together.

Even though there’s snow on the mountains, you know MINI keeps warm by cooking up new and clever ideas for our fans. What have we been up to?

Here for their world premiere are three design models, inspired by MINI’s UK roots: just behind you are the

• MINI Baker Street,
• MINI Bayswater, and
• MINI Convertible Highgate.

All three models are named after famous areas of London. Since the BMW Group is the official mobility partner of the London 2012 Games, they’re right on time for the action.

Of course, being on time is important. But just as important is making sure all of your gear arrives with you. For those with a lot to move about, MINI has an answer. Making its world premiere: the MINI Clubvan Concept. It has two seats; two compartments; and it’s twice as much fun as any transport vehicle out there!

For business or leisure, the Clubvan Concept is the world’s first transport vehicle based on a premium small car. And the Clubvan is quintessential MINI. It’s fresh. It’s unique. And its roots are deeply connected to the brand’s heritage: from the original to the original.

Inspiration for the Clubvan comes from the 1960 Morris Mini Van. The idea behind the Morris Mini Van was simple. Offer people running a business all the benefits of a Classic Mini with increased functionality and storage space. Holding true to its roots, the MINI Clubvan Concept was also designed with day-to-day usability in mind.

The Clubvan builds on the functionality of the original, adding MINI’s premium character and individuality to the mix. And I’m thrilled to announce, for the first time, the MINI Clubvan will go into series production. We’ll launch the Clubvan in the second half of this year.

There’s boundless creativity at MINI, putting unique cars like the Clubvan on the road. Because of this, we currently offer fans over 40 variants. And these MINIs have carried last year’s record success into 2012.

We’ll announce our February sales results tomorrow. But I can tell you that MINI had double-digit, worldwide growth in February. MINI is keeping the pedal to the metal, ready to make 2012 another record-breaking year. But this isn’t surprising. After all, MINI is the premium small car brand that keeps setting the pace right across the globe.

And when it comes to pace, MINI is always ready to run. MINI’s deep roots in motorsports go back over half a century to the Classic Mini Cooper. That car was named, of course, after John Cooper, the legendary racing engineer who brought it to life. Ever since, John Cooper’s name has been synonymous with excitement, performance, and extreme driving fun.

And the latest additions to the MINI John Cooper Works Family of high performance cars carry this heritage forward. Who are the newest members of this brawny club?

First up, the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe. John Cooper Works takes the Coupe’s untamed driving excitement one step further. Joining in on the action, of course, is the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster.

The Roadster was already the easiest way to enjoy open driving on the open road. As the John Cooper Works model, the Roadster is more irresistible than ever. Both of these MINIs are itching to bury the needle with 211 horsepower apiece.

Rounding out this trio, making its world premiere: the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman!

The Countryman with ALL4 is the first ever John Cooper Works model with all-wheel drive. It’s also the first to offer an automatic gearbox. Coming as standard, it has a new 4-cylinder engine with twin-scroll turbocharger and 1.6-litre displacement.

All of these numbers add up to 218 horsepower and 300 Newton metres of torque with overboost. This will launch you from standstill to 100 kilometres an hour in 7 seconds flat.

You can feel the pure power for yourself starting this autumn when the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will be available worldwide. Now, ladies and gentlemen, please join me and take a closer look at the newest additions to the MINI Family.

Merci and thank you!

MINIは市場に登場してから１０年以上経ち、カスタマイズ車の中ではもっとも人気のある車です。アエロキットから、ターニングモディフィケーションまで、これらのメタルスミスは、MINIを所有するオーナー達にとって、とても人気のある職人技（技術）です。

However, only few have reached superstar status, building cars that have been featured on magazine covers that have won the respect and hearts of MINI lovers all over the world.

カスタマイズを専門とする会社の中で、ほんの数社だけメディアに取り上げられ雑誌のカバーとなり、世界中のMINIのオーナー達を魅了する技術をもったところがあります。

Hailing from Japan, DuelL AG is one of those superstars, having designed and built a series of beautiful and high performance MINIs. DuelL AG has become a household name within the MINI community with their intense attention to detail and unique sense of style, like all Japanese products.

その中の一つ、日本のDuelL AG社は唯一人気を誇るワークショップです。彼らはすばらしいデザイン及び高性能なMINIを仕上げており、細かいところへの配慮からそのユニークなデザイン性でMINIのコミュニティーの中でも絶大な支持を得る会社となりました。

The MINI Mob talks to the CEO of DuelL AG, Cosque Sato on how it all began.

そこでMINI Mobは、DueIL AG社の最高経営責任者, 佐藤浩亮さんにどういうきっかけで会社を立ち上げたのかをインタビュー致しました。

THE MINI MOB :

Tell us more about DuelL AG and how it started up?

DuelL AGについてお聞かせ下さい。どのようにして御社はスタートしたのですか。

Cosque Sato:

We started DuelL AG to expand our business outside Japan. That’s how the word ‘DuelL’ came about. ‘DuelL’ is derived from the word ‘to duel’ in German, and we chose that word to represent us. Because it’s such a competitive world we live in, we chose the word ‘duel’ to challenge the competition. It helps us convey the message  that we are here to stand out and stand ready for a challenge.

We wanted to make a lasting impression on MINI owners, telling them that we are coming with a fresh perspective and approach at MINI customization. The car they see coming out the show room will be turned into an entirely new vehicle once we’re done with it.

After 3 years upon setting up DuelL AG, we established our own Perform@nce Re:model shop in Nagoya and then in another 2 years, another outlet in Tokyo.

海外へ私たちの製品を配信する会社を作ることを目標にデュエルジャパンを設立しました。

社名にデュエルの後ろにジャパンをつけたのはそういった意味でもあります。

デュエルという意味はドイツ語で決闘という意味になるのですが、世の中にモノが溢れている市場で

私たちが御提案した製品をPRしていくのには競合という名の決闘という意識を高めたかったからです。

弊社はオリジナル製品を販売するメーカー業務から、もっと私たちの思いを直接色々なオーナーの方々にお伝えしたいという思いが強まり

会社設立3年目に直営店のパフォーマンス リモデルを名古屋に、そして会社設立5年目に東京にそれぞれオープンしました。

THE MINI MOB:

In a JDM dominated market, we would like to know, why choose MINI?

JDMの市場のなかで、なじMINIを選ばれたのですか。

Cosque Sato:

As a personal fan of European cars, I felt that MINI was a good choice. I believe that the clientele of continental car owners have a different mindset from those of other car makes. I wanted to test my skills on a personal level that could be taken outside of the Japanese market, so I raised the bar to make a significant difference in the MINI market, bearing in mind that the MINI is a recognized and respected car all over the world.

With that said I was ready to take on the challenge. MINI is well-known to be a highly customizable car, and so i felt that that quality alone gave it a unique reputation which even non-MINI owners could notice and appreciate.

根本は、私が欧州車が好きだったことにあります。MINIと言えども日本では外車となりましてユーザーの方も日本車のオーナーよりも客層が良いという部分と海外へ挑戦していきたい思い強く、世界各国にオーナーが多いMINIの中で存在感を出したかったのがMINIを選んだ理由です。オーナーが多いということは走っている車が多い訳で、カスタムの醍醐味の一つでもあるカスタムした部分を例えオーナーじゃなくても気づいてもらえるのも選んだ理由です。

THE MINI MOB :

Tell us more about the story behind your tagline “Perform@nce Re:model” ?

なぜパフォーマンスリモデルという名前を付けたのでしょうか？
どういった思いが込められているのでしょうか？

Cosque Sato:

The word ‘Re:model’ is a play on the word ‘Remodel’.  The word “Re:” is meant to represent the word ‘reply’, most commonly used in the subject column of emails. Hence the word “Re:model” is our ‘reply’ to remodeling cars. It’s our spin on BMW’s originality as they are the makers of MINI.

リモデルとはMINIを製造するBMWに弊社オリジナルとしてモデルし返す思いがありまして、メールなどを返信する際に使用するRE:と掛けた造語です。

THE MINI MOB :

Please introduce us your team members, we would like to put a face to all the great work you guys have done.

チームメンバーをご紹介頂けますでしょうか。（是非、皆様の写真をご掲載させて頂きたいです。）

Cosque Sato:

The DuelL AG guys are a shy bunch, so i can’t share much unfortunately. I can tell you that our team of professionals includes a guy that is the General Manager of one of the most popular audio shops in Japan with a first class degree in tuning. However, let me introduce you to someone that’s just as important to the DuelL AG team.

チームメンバーはシャイな男が多く、写真を断られてしまったので申し訳ありませんが非公開でお願い致します。
リモデルで働くスタッフの中には、日本でもっとも重度なカスタムをするオーディオショップの工場長だった者や一級整備士免許を持っている者などが在籍してます。

LIFE, DuelL AG’s female Pug Mascot. 犬の名前は「LIFE」です。一応、♀デス

THE MINI MOB:

Do you have a favorite MINI model that you enjoy working on the most and why?

今取り組まれているプロジェクトの中で、特にお気に入りのMINIのモデルはなんですか。
またその理由をお聞かせ下さい。

Cosque Sato:

For Demo Cars, we like to use the R60 and the Countryman. We’ve just completed the interior for these models, and are now very excited to begin work on the engine. Also the R58 JCW is another exciting new project of which we are currently installing a customized racing bumper.

デモカーのR60カントリーマンの内装が出来上がったばかりで、これからエンジンを入れていくところで非常に楽しみです。

もちろん、新しくデモカーに加わったR58JCWも新しく発売するレーシングバンパーなどを装着するので楽しみですけどね♪

THE MINI MOB:

Let’s talk about speed and power. What is the highest horse power  and torque you’ve achieved so far? Give us its the top speed.

スピードと馬力についてお聞かせ下さい。
今までに到達した最も高い馬力とトルクはいくつですか？

Cosque Sato:

I prefer not to show Torque and Speed in numeric’s, simply because the results vary, depending on the instruments that measure the torque as well as the condition of the surrounding environment.

By using devices such as a roller type chassis dynamometer and thinner tires, the horsepower will increase. That’s why it’s hard for to gauge the exact numeric, so I’ll leave that one up to your imagination.

馬力やトルクを数字で表す事は好きではありません。なぜならば、測定する機材や状況などの環境が違い過ぎるからです。

例えばローラー式のシャーシダイナモの場合であれば、タイヤを細くすればするほど馬力は上がるはずです。。。ですから、数値は明かせませんので御想像にお任せします。

THE MINI MOB :

Any plans to set up a showroom in Singapore or elsewhere in Asia? We know that a lot of our members are dying to get their hands on some DuelL AG car parts.

日本以外のアジア諸国（シンガポールを含む）でショールームを展開する計画はありますか。

Cosque Sato:

We are definitely open to the idea, although it would be difficult for us to remain the direct distributor. However, seeing that asian companies are within relative proximity to Japan, we hope to gain more opportunities and collaborations with more workshops throughout Asia in the future.

Our main goal is for DuelL AG to gain awareness through these workshops, which is why it is crucial for them to fully grasp DuelL AG’s business concept and state of mind. This plays a significant role in creating advocacy in their local markets.

もちろんアジア諸国は日本からも近いので、将来的には弊社資本という訳にはいきませんが現地法人の方で我々の思いを御理解して頂ける方に

弊社の全面サポートでショールームをオープン出来たら光栄です。　それにはデュエルAGというブランドをもっと絶対的な地位に引き上げる必要がありますけどね。

Visit DuelL AG at:

http://www.duell.jp/

http://duell.jp/blog/

https://www.facebook.com/DuelL.AG

Local MINI fans, DuelL AG will be available soon on our shores! All thanks to M Commodities.

M Commodities
266C Joo Chiat Road, Singapore, Singapore 427520
Phone: 92280065
enquiries@mcommodities.com.sg

*Japanese translation by Natsuko Kirihara 

MINI design icons.

Over the years, the styling of MINI cars has produced a host of design icons which have become synonymous with the brand as a whole and, in some cases, signature features of individual models. Collectively, these iconic elements have helped shape the identity of the brand and its cars.

Front end.

*image courtesy of http://libraryofmotoring.info/ 

First a MINI, then a bag.

Under the style-assured guidance of Ilaria Venturini Fendi, elements from prototypes of the new MINI Roadster were combined with discarded colour samples and other materials to create fashion designer bags made by Italian craftsmen. This capsule collections comprises week-end and city bags for women and men. The wide-ranging materials from the MINI Roadster provided an extensive source of inspiration. In some styles, the soft yet robust seat leather formed the outer shell of the bag, while the canvas from the soft-top was often decorated by a mosaic of small metal plates coming from the colour samples of the car body painting. Sunvisors hide make up mirrors while from the car interiors, handles become a special detail in a tiny proportioned bag. Reclaiming unused materials, defective or no longer fit for their intended purpose, or searching for stocks of end-of-lines and vintage materials that may change their function in the design of a new object, has been Ilaria Venturini Fendi’s creative approach from CARMINA CAMPUS’ start. This perspective on materials is being increasingly shared beyond the fashion world, and MINI is embracing the practice that now goes by the name of “up-cycling”.

“For many years now, the BMW Group has been working with creative people from all manner of fields,” says Anders Warming, Head of MINI Design. “We are delighted to have found in Ilaria Venturini Fendi a designer who devotes her artistic powers above all to considerations of sustainability and up-cycling. For us these are key issues of the future which we are now addressing through this collaboration in customary MINI fashion”.

The CARMINA CAMPUS label.

The youngest daughter of Anna Fendi, and once herself Creative Accessories Director of the Fendissime young line as well as shoe designer for the legendary fashion house, Ilaria Venturini Fendi retired from the company some years ago to run an organic farm in Northern Rome. In 2006 she launched CARMINA CAMPUS, a label that specialises in making furniture, jewellery and bags from re-used and up-cycled materials – to the highest standards of design. “I’m very happy about this collaboration,” says Venturini Fendi. “It shows just how aware MINI is of the motor industry’s impact on the environment and that it is working towards change. For big brands like MINI in particular, up-cycling is an important issue. After all, this is where you will always get scrap material that is generally described as waste, but in fact can become part of a high-quality object.”

Local Singaporean band, SIXX, piled themselves into a MINI Cabriolet together with their instruments and took to the streets of Singapore, injecting a little fun into the local mundane daily commute. The MINI Traffic Jamming campaign’s success put Singapore on the MINI Map as the first local campaign to be aired on MINI TV.

The MINI Mob team met up with lead singer, Aarika Lee to find out more about her MINI Traffic Jamming experience.

How did the whole MINI Traffic Jamming project come about and what inspired it?

SIXX hit the streets some time last year with the intention of bringing a bit of the NY/London/Paris busking spirit back to Singapore. We wanted to do more than just perform along the busy streets; we wanted to push the boundaries by going into MRT stations, buses and trains and entertaining commuters on their weekend train ride!

The initiative was a huge success and generated quite a bit of buzz. When MINI Singapore created the traffic jamming campaign, we were the band that came to mind!

What were your first thoughts when you first saw the car you’d be driving around in?

I was very excited that we’d be zipping around in a stylish MINI Cabriolet, but I was concerned about how Joe (Our drummer, he’s a big guy!) was going to fit in the back seat with his Djembe drum.

Turns out everyone managed to fit into that baby comfortably with our instruments.

You were on the road for quite a bit, how was your experience singing while cruising around in the MINI Cabriolet?

It was definitely different from anything we had ever done before. It wasn’t like a live show, and it wasn’t like our busking experiences. It was actually a lot more challenging trying to get people’s attention, by getting them to wind down their car windows and listen to what we were playing.

It was much easier grabbing the attention of pedestrians; we even went to a McDonald’s drive-thru and got the crew to sing along with us. That was awesome.

What do you personally like best about MINI?

I love how MINI dares to be adventurous and stays open-minded to do things out of the ordinary, like the MINI Traffic Jamming campaign for example, and their ‘BE’ campaign.

Which MINI model describes you best and why?

I think the MINI that best represents me would be the Mini Cooper S Cabriolet! It’s outdoorsy, fun and zippy! If you’re up to braving the wind in your hair and feeling the sun shine on your skin, it can only promise you an adventure ride. I love the idea of letting my hair down and leaving spontaneity in charge, and the Mini Cooper S Cabriolet gives off that exact energy!

What can we expect from you and SIXX in 2012?

2012 is looking like an exciting year for SIXX! We’re headed to France at the end of the month to be part of the Midem Festival in Cannes, right after we release our debut single Supersonic as well as more music throughout the rest of the year.

Personally, there are a couple of projects that I want to get my hands into as well so I’m excited for all that! It’s going to be a busy year, but it’s going to be a fun one! -

Catch Aarika and The Next Movement (a subsidiary of SIXX) live at these venues every week:

Monday: Wala Walas, Holland Village, 930pm-1am
Wednesday: Hard Rock Cafe, 830pm-12mn
Friday: CM-PB, Dempsey, 930pm-1am
Saturday: Balaclava, 930pm-1am

- The MINI Mob Team

Visit the official forum thread here to find out more! If you’re not already a member on our forum, well don’t be shy, it’s just the internet. Plus we won’t bite..promise! Join in on all the latest buzz and get to know other fellow Mobsters.

Enjoy!

The MINI Mob Team

Launched as part of Japan’s year end celebrations, fans snap pictures of themselves wearing bright-colored headphones that resemble the side mirrors of a MINI and then pair themselves up with their favorite models; the Coupe, Convertible, Countryman, Clubman or Cooper.

Fans can then share them on their facebook walls or even send them as online greeting cards. We wouldn’t be surprised if some people actually had them printed and framed!

Check out the app here

Wishing you and you a 2012 full of happiness and love,

The Mini Mob Team