Skip to content
 
Two modified Mini Coopers, showcasing MINI’s Rally DNA with a Deus makeover, are parked on a plain white surface—one in striking orange and black, the other in bold gray and yellow.

By Khris Bharath –  September 03, 2025

MINI’s Rally DNA Gets a Deus Makeover in Two Radical JCW ...

Most collaborations between automakers and lifestyle brands don’t move past surface-level graphics or merch at best. But MINI and Deus Ex Machina, in this latest project, have aimed for something higher. Together, they built not one, but two one-off John Cooper Works cars, each designed with a distinct identity. While one was fabricated in a surf shop, the other was conceived in a metal workshop, and together, both carry MINI’s motorsport heritage while showcasing Deus’ handcrafted, culture-first philosophy. For those unaware, Deus Ex Machina was founded in Sydney, Australia, back in 2006. The company initially made its name customizing motorcycles with a raw, handcrafted approach. From surfboards to streetwear, Deus has since grown into a global lifestyle brand with shops in Venice Beach, Canggu, and Tokyo. What sets them apart is their ability to inject surf, skate, and moto culture into products. Partnering with MINI has now given Deus a platform to apply that same philosophy to cars for the first time. “Every detail has been crafted with artisanal precision. These cars have different characters, but you can still tell they belong together.” - Holger Hampf, MINI’s head of design. Starting with the 258-horsepower JCW Electric, nicknamed The Skeg. Designers borrowed directly from surf culture, even using fiberglass panels from surfboard-making processes that reduce weight by 15 percent and change appearance depending on lighting. A roof spoiler with a foam core and translucent winglets reacts to airflow. Inside, neoprene-trimmed seats and fiberglass trays for wetsuits make it clear that there’s substance behind all the style.  Then there’s The Machina, the equally wild 231-horsepower gas-powered JCW stripped back to the essentials. Wider fenders, Deus-branded rally spotlights, and a Can-Am-style spoiler all reference the 1960s John Cooper Works Minis that shocked the world by winning Monte Carlo three times. At the rear, a diffuser and central exhaust borrow directly from the JCW Nordschleife race car. In the cabin, things appear to be properly analog, with a five-point harness, aluminum floor panels for grip and utility, and a hydraulic handbrake sitting front and center for quick corrections on track. Material choices include waxed canvas on the dash and stainless steel switches, which are a nod to Deus’ custom bike workshops. Both cars carry the oversized white “X” motif across their roofs and interiors, a visual cue that these builds are connected, even if their characters couldn’t be more different. You’ll see matching bold numbers, color blocking, and graphic work by designer Matt Willey, a Pentagram partner and former New York Times Magazine art director, whose past MINI collaborations referenced the British marque’s Monte Carlo rally history and Paddy Hopkirk’s 1964 win.  Neither car is for sale, but you’ll find them at IAA Mobility in Munich this month. But the bigger picture here is that this exercise could point to MINI’s design direction for future models. Beyond the cars, MINI will also launch a capsule apparel collection with Deus, underlining that this project is as much about culture as it is about cars. View All MINIs For Sale " width="680"> Source: BMW Mini

P90223515_highRes_bmw-group-the-next-1

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham –  June 17, 2016

The MINI Vision Next 100: Because No Concept Lineup is Co...

Driving through urban areas can be a little cumbersome, to say the least. The sound of horns and screeching brakes permeates the air so much that passersby don't look twice. Though public transportation is in abundance in most urban areas, the problem with vehicle congestion has long been a topic of conversation. with MINI's new concept, the MINI VISION NEXT 100, the petite car maker is answering the most common problems on urban roadways.The Urban Go-KartDubbing the new concept "The Urban Go-Kart," MINI brings the best of intuitive technology, driving experience and fun to the urban future. The self-driving component, which was thought to potentially compromise the fun of driving a MINI, will only enhance the experience, according to the press release. The company states self-driving will enhance the go-cart experience. The Mini VISION NEXT 100 levels up the experience: "Cleared of many controls and screens, the interior has a pure, uncluttered look. And the glass front end opens up a dynamic view of the road. Here, augmented reality displays show the route or ideal driving line, heightening the driving sensation." SustainabilityMINI recognizes the need for a long-term approach to the sustainability of the environment through new and innovative automotive efforts. the MINI VISION NEXT 100will be made of sustainable materials that should "retain their high level of perceived quality over many years, age stylishly and offer a special tactile experience." These materials will complement the vehicle without compromising the environment. Materials include recycled plastic and aluminum for flooring, lightweight basalt storage compartments and recycled cellulose for the lower trimming of the seats, just to name a few.ConnectionWith the integration of digital intelligence, the "Cooperizer", a well-loved MINI feature, becomes a digital kaleidoscope highlighting all the options available to the riders in the vehicle. From entertainment to communication to navigation, the futuristic Cooperizer can do it all. Intuitive in nature, the Cooperizer can now make suggestions for music, things to do and places to go based on the user based on downloaded content."The MINI VISION NEXT 100 shows how MINI’s unique take on the world could look in the future. The driving experience remains the emotional centrepiece, with effortless and seamless services grouped around it." -Anders Warming, Head of MINI Design

Live Auctions