by Return to the Roots: Mini Could Become Truly Miniature
Modern Mini cars are hard to call “mini” — they have significantly increased in size over the decades and now barely resemble the original classic. However, the company has stated it is interested in creating a smaller model inspired by the Rocketman concept, which was introduced 15 years ago.
Designer on the Challenges
According to Mini’s head designer, Holger Hampf, the brand views such a model as an “exciting project,” but noted that building such a small car in the modern era would be difficult.
“Certainly, we are studying these volumes and trying to understand what [Mini] can fit into such a small 3.6-meter car. It is not easy,” he told Auto Express. “I will leave it at that.”
Safety Technologies and Size Growth
Hampf noted that fitting all the safety equipment expected from modern cars into a small two-door body, like the Rocketman, would be challenging. He added that “everything around Mini has grown.”
“You have to be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, new regulations have emerged regarding pedestrian safety and sensor technologies. People don’t want to lose ADAS functionality, cruise control, and all that. This has led to a slight increase in size. There is so much technology in these cars compared to the classic Mini or the Rocketman concept.”
If Smart Can, Mini Certainly Can Too
While building a model like the Rocketman would be difficult, even modern safety standards should not stop Mini. Last month, Smart introduced its tiny Concept #2, which heralds a new urban electric car set to launch later this year as the successor to the EQ Fortwo. The concept measures just 2792 mm in length, making it much smaller than any possible Rocketman version Mini might decide to build.
If the brand does decide to proceed with such a car, it will only have room for a small battery. This, in turn, will result in a relatively limited range, but given the car’s size and urban focus, this should not be a major issue. Hampf also noted that all Mini models must be “super-safe,” and a production version of the Rocketman would be no exception.
Interestingly, even 15 years after its premiere, the Rocketman concept remains a relevant benchmark for the brand. The modern market, especially in Europe, increasingly demands compact urban cars, and Mini seems to be trying to find a balance between nostalgia for original dimensions and the demands of modern safety technologies. The example of Smart shows that such projects are possible, but they require compromises, particularly regarding range. If Mini dares to put the Rocketman into production, it would be a bold step that could restore the brand’s true essence — being a small yet technologically rich car for the city.
