A List of Emerging Technology in MINIs in Austin

by | Jun 12, 2024 | Auto Info

All-electric Mini Car

The MINI Cooper has been a British icon since the 1960s. Since its introduction, MINIs have fascinated drivers because of their look and performance. Simplicity and performance, mixed with a tad bit of quirkiness have produced an avid following for this car. BMW has owned MINI since 1996. MINIs are every bit a contender in the performance car arena. Exciting technologies are being added to the MINI every year. In this article, we will introduce a few of the new innovations that are affecting the MINIs going into 2025.

New Innovations in MINIs

  • Introduction of the All-Electric MINI: We already saw the introduction of the new all-electric MINI in 2024. The two-door, hard-top hatchback can hold its own with the other all-electric power players. The 2024 J01 MINI Cooper SE Electric Hardtop has undergone a complete overhaul, but in general, the car retains its classic look and feel.
  • Complete Exterior Redesign: MINI continues to combine style with practicality. Keeping this in mind, the brand has heavily revised the exterior of its hatchbacks. The revolutionary revamp leans toward a clean and minimalist look. This is clearly apparent in the J01 MINI Cooper electric cars.
  • Improved Powertrain: Enhancements to the next-gen MINIs add more power to the cars. The powertrain upgrade can be seen in their all-electric J01 MINI, as well as the two gas-only models. One of which is a base model with a four-cylinder engine, and the other is the sporty Cooper S.
  • Digital Key System: The newer MINIs have a digital key system that can be operated remotely with your smartphone. You can unlock and remote start your car with your smartphone.
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Some of the recent MINIs have a radar-based cruise control system that allows the car to brake when it detects another vehicle in front of it. When the other vehicle moves away or speeds up, the MINI will speed up again. You can set a safe distance of your choice for your MINI to maintain from the vehicle in front of you.
  • Safe Exit Function: When you’re about to open the doors, this feature will audibly warn you if it detects a cyclist or another vehicle approaching from behind.
  • Active Driving Assistant: This is a group of driver-assist technologies that scan the surroundings and alert you if it senses danger. The modern MINIs include the following:
    • Forward Collision Warning: If your MINI senses you might hit the car in front of you, it will beep at you as a warning.
    • Rear Collision warning: You’ll get visual and audible warning while backing if there are any obstructions.
    • Automatic Emergency Braking: If your MINI senses an impact is imminent, it’ll brake for you.
    • Lane Departure Warning: If you begin to straddle or go off your lane, your MINI will beep at you.
    • Blind Spot Monitoring: A visual cue like a light activates on the side mirrors to alert the driver of hazards in the blind spot
    • Park Distance Control: Your MINI will beep at you if you get too close to another car or any other obstruction while parking.
    • Park Assist: Your MINI can help you park your car by identifying a suitable spot.
    • Pedestrian Monitoring: Your MINI will give you an audio signal that a pedestrian is in the path of your car.
  • Level 2 Automated Driving System (ADS): The 2024 MINI Cooper Countryman has level 2 automated driving. When you engage this system, you can take your hands off the steering wheel, but you do have to keep your eyes on the road and be ready to take over. This system disengages at 37 mph (60 km/h).
  • Redesigned Interior Experience: The brand new, first-ever round OLED display is turning many heads! It’s a spacious 4-inch infotainment center with a user-friendly interface. And it’s fun!
  • MINI Operating System 9: The cutting-edge MINI Operating System (OS) 9 is a giant digital leap. It makes digital entertainment via apps possible right in your car, through your infotainment system. From the radio to YouTube, to movies, books, or music—you can have it all.
  • MINI Experience Modes: Thanks to OS 9, you can customize the look and feel of the interior of your MINI by changing the colors of the lights inside your car. Think of it as when you personalize your phone! With customizable LED lights, you can also change some of the exterior lights.
  • Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA): For years, the English Bulldog has been the mascot of the MINI Cooper. Now Spike, the cartoon dog, has found his forever home inside the infotainment system as your new Intelligent Personal Assistant! And due to OS 9 technology, you can talk to him. Yes! The new MINIs allow voice commands for hands-free navigation of the infotainment system.

MINIs have evolved and continue to do so. They seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with classic design, with a twist of whimsicalness. This assures the MINI to continue its legacy as a beloved car with an almost cult following.

If you own a MINI and have questions about owning one, the techs at Terry Sayther Automotive are your European car specialists. Our (Automotive Service Excellence) ASE-certified technicians are here to answer all your questions. We’re here to help you repair or maintain your car. Please call us or make an appointment to stop by. We are in Texas, located in Buda, Kyle, Lakeway, Tarrytown, and Austin.

* All-electric Mini Car image credit goes to: Emirhan Karamuk.

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