Monday, Feb 28, 2011

AsiaOne

British automaker MINI will unveil a fascinating concept car, the Rocketman, this week at the 81st International Geneva Motor Show held from March 3 to 13.

The study vehicle - a 3-plus-1 seater with 3 doors and an exterior length of just 3.3 metres - is targeted at drivers looking for "driving fun, a flexible use of space and extensive connectivity with their lives outside the car," said Mini.

Unique features include a two-section tailgate, one lower part that extends out of the body like a "drawer" and another part attached to the roof which opens extremely high.

Side sills integrated into the doors extend the car's entry area, allowing driver and passengers to enter the car with maximum ease, or providing wider access for loading luggage.

Without straying away from MINI sensibilities, the Rocketman employs large headlights, big wheels and a chrome-bordered radiator grille for its front and flank design.

The snazzy design is however augmented by a transparent roof with illuminated braces, reminiscent of Britain's Union Jack flag.

Inside the car, leather covers and high-gloss painted surfaces combine with armrests and trim strips. A wrap-around light strip at waistline height generates a particularly harmonious ambience.

In terms of technological features, the Rocketman will have a "removable control element", which can be configured on a computer before the start of a journey, allowing the driver to transfer new music files, a navigation destination and contact details for mobile communications and internet usage.