Mini launches one-off sustainable 'Strip' by Paul Smith

Ever since the 1960s, the Mini hatchback has been seen as a trendy, chic vehicle which has featured on the silver screen worldwide as something of a style icon.

In the process of wanting to revive its past image, the British manufacturer collaborated with designer Paul Smith to create this – the Strip.

Based on the electric Hatch, the Strip is a one-off creation to showcase how the company can be more sustainable moving forward, adopting a more back-to-basics and raw approach to deliver a Mini like no other.

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For example, you might notice there's no paint, rather a thin application of clear coat to protect the bare shell from the elements, allowing observers to see the unaltered pressed steel which still has grinding marks left on it from the manufacturing process.

Gone is the usual Union Jack roof and in its place sits a shaped piece of recycled perspex, leaving the bare frame exposed to show those who are able to see it from above. The material was also used for the grille and as aerodynamic covers on the wheels, potentially cutting drag and increasing range.

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On the inside it's much the same story – what some might define as unfinished, Smith calls it "perfect imperfection". Aside from the dashboard and parcel shelf, not a whole lot of interior trim remains, turning the car's shell into a design feature.

While the dashboard is now just one large piece of glass, the iconic Mini centre instrument cluster is gone, with phone mounts implemented instead – automatically connecting to the car to become the infotainment system.

Also missing are luxury materials such as leather and chrome, instead recycled knitted fabric adorns the seats while recycled rubber is used for the floor mats – both materials are also fully recyclable.

An avid cyclist, Smith utilised handlebar tape from a road bike to cover the steering wheel which has a mesh fabric covering the airbag, as do the doors in place of regular panels.

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Smith said he was thankful to Mini for allowing him to put his own twist on the British classic.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to rethink the iconic Mini,” said Smith.

“I know and love the existing car, but by respecting the past and looking to the future we have created something very special.

"I feel very privileged that the Mini team has given me the confidence and freedom to think laterally about the approach to the design of the car.

"Together I think we have created something truly unique, by going back to basics, reducing things down and stripping the car."

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