Details and images released of MINI Clubvan Concept
MINI Clubvan Concept
By Bob Hume, 20th February 2012
MINI is threatening to bust more niches - this time it's the small commercial vehicle market. The Clubvan Concept will be unveiled at Geneva next month and MINI says that this is a "compact van for business and leisure".
MINI Clubvan Concept
In an attempt to capture the versatility offered by the classic Mini, this design study was created with the 1960 Morris Mini Van in mind. With its 10-centimetre-longer wheelbase, separate load compartment and split rear doors, it was made for light commercial use and also provided the basis for the fully glazed, four-seat Morris Mini Traveller.
MINI says that its Clubman-based concept "combines all of the driving fun and distinctive design for which MINI is renowned, with an increased load-carrying capability".
MINI Clubvan Concept
Limiting the car to two seats creates the capacity needed by small businesses, as well as creating customisation potential. A flat load area which reaches from the split rear doors to a partition grille behind the front seats is designed to make use of the interior‘s depth.
MINI Clubvan Concept
Six attachment loops recessed into the load floor use elasticated straps to hold cargo in place. The fixed partition grille, made from solid aluminium in the lower part and a stainless steel honeycombe grating, ensures items stowed in the rear won‘t fall into the front cabin.
There are two front doors for the driver and front passenger, two side-hinged rear doors and the rear-hinged "Clubdoor" on the right-hand side to create access.
MINI Clubvan Concept
The company featured on the MINI Clubvan Concept shown at Geneva ’Hugh Buckingham Signwriter‘ is a UK company, based in Southport which creates similar vehicle graphics for its customers.
