Mini John Cooper Works GP, racing style evolution

Direct heir of two other special series marked by the initials GP, that of 2006 and that of 2013, the new John Cooper Works GP represents the 'performance' essence of the latest Mini generation, characterized by top mechanics both in terms of technological refinement and for output of the 4-cylinder turbo, capable of delivering 306 HP and thus accelerating from zero to 100 km / h in just 5.2 seconds. On sale since March, this model is produced in a limited series of 3,000 units, of which 150 reserved for the Italian market. Mini John Cooper Works GP enhances the brand's sporty DNA and 'opens' with unusual design solutions - such as the shape of the rear spoiler or the rear spats - which tell the story of the brand and the genes of the GP series in a modern and innovative language . Wider than any other Mini, the John Cooper Works GP features a flat front section with a large 'racing' shield and an accentuated front spoiler which - together with the enlarged wheel arches - transmit the capacity for dynamic performance without compromise. The classic iconic MINI elements such as the elliptical headlights and the hexagonal radiator grille give a clear sense of identity and are easily recognizable. At the same time, characteristic John Cooper Works elements such as the childhood scoop and the hexagonal honeycomb grid with GP logo in the radiator grille underline the sportiness of the front. Laterally Mini John Cooper Works GP reveals the sportiest Mini silhouette ever. The interaction between the window area and the growing shoulder line traces a wedge shape on the side that conveys a sense of speed even when the car is stationary. The external finish in metallic Racing Gray alternates between light gray and blue-violet, creating a strong sense of depth, while the roof and the mirror caps are finished in Melting Silver. All the typical chrome elements in the front, side and rear such as the Mini logos, the door handles, the fuel tank cap, the side skirts and the headlight bezels are finished in glossy black for all the small details. The technological inspiration of this truly exclusive Mini is further emphasized by the colored details in shiny Chili Red and metallic matt Red, while the use of light materials - such as carbon fiber - optimizes the weight / power ratio. In the side view, the original wheel arches stand out - the so-called spats - made of recycled and handmade carbon fiber. For the first time, the carbon fiber fabric is directly visible and displayed thanks to black hexagonal seams. The number shown on the front shows the production number of the limited series. Also exclusive to this model are the 18-inch light forged wheels with a two-tone design that reflect the surprising four-spoke theme of the Mini John Cooper Works GP with a filigree texture. They are the lightest alloy wheels of this size that have ever been mounted on a Mini, contributing significantly to weight reduction. The tail area takes up the personality of the front and side design. The roof spoiler is not only an affirmation of the sporty style, its shape also ensures optimal aerodynamic load and adapts perfectly to the vehicle geometry. The same applies to the vents and air ducting surfaces in the side skirts. Positioned prominently in the center of the lower rear area, the classic double exhaust pipe embodies the John Cooper Works DNA, with large-diameter double polished steel terminals that protrude 'powerful' from the diffuser. The interior of the Mini John Cooper Works GP combines a purist sporty touch with powerful color accents. The new digital steering instrument panel offers all the information the driver needs in his field of vision, as required in circuit driving. The aluminum shift paddles on the steering wheel are also highly distinctive. They are made with 3D printing and evoke the hexagonal theme of the design of the external filigree air intakes. Another personalizing element is the central part of the 3D printed steering wheel and the decorative molding on the passenger side. Each molding is unique and bears the limited edition production number of the vehicle. Their GP-specific hexagonal structure takes up the style of the surface of the gearshift paddles. In this way, MINI demonstrates a completely new dimension of integrating 3D printing into the series production process. The use of additive processes such as 3D printing not only takes personalization to a higher level, but also allows for new forms of design that previously were not possible using conventional tools. It should be noted that this John Cooper Works GP variant only has anatomical front seats and is without the rear bench seat, also with a view to keeping the weight of the vehicle as low as possible. The clear and uncluttered surfaces of the rear compartment also reflect the search for the essentials and are dominated by the large GP logo on the rear panel.

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