First, MINI confirmed it will be producing a Rolls Royce luxury edition MINI, but, no word yet on whether it will be offered in the US. [Sources: egmCarTech; The Auto Channel]
Second, as part of its strategy to change the cockpit entertainment experience, next fall MINI will roll out its MINI Connected technology as a first step to a full wifi and web-connected entertainment option. The MINI Connected software and hardware to be released will connect to the web for entertainment and use an iPhone app to connect to the following content:
Webradio
News
Google Local Search
Community
Send to Car
Even further interconnection is scheduled for 2013. [Source: MotoringFile]
Third, Auto designer Othmar Wickenheiser and Gert Hildebrand, the lead designer at MINI, have released MINI Design, a volume dedicated to Minis/MINIs. [Source: MINISpace]
Fourth, MINI USA Vice President confirmed that the MINI Countryman has been delayed to an early 2011 launch in the US; that the Speedster and Coupé are coming to the LA Motorshow; and the US dealer network is expanding substantially and rapidly. [Source: MotoringFile]
Fifth, edmund's inside line told us what is new for MINI in 2010 - They all come standard with a multifunction steering wheel with cruise control; Mayfair and Camden packages are available for the MC and MCS hardtops; there is an optional Harman-Kardon system available; the JCW Convertible costs $250 more than last year, the Cooper and JCW are $300 more, the MCS, MCS Convertible and Cooper convertible are $400 more, the Clubman and Clubman S will cost $250 to $400 more; and MINI-E production will end with the 2009 model.
Finally, Autoblog has started a rumor based on Spy Photos and reports that MINI is experimenting with "hotted-up" prototypes of a MCS and MINI Clubman S diesels.
Oh, and don't miss this tongue-in-cheek post about MINI over at Meta-cars. You should also check out Tara's photos from NorCal MINIs Goes Umigo Kart Racing. Looks like the event was a blast!
We want to also congratulate Larry and Tami on their new grandchild - sure to be spoiled rotten.
We will see you all at the December 12, 2009 Holiday Lights Tour & Toy Drive presented by NorCal MINIs and MINI of Concord. This is one you won't want to miss! Bring new unwrapped toys for Children's Hospital of Oakland and get a great festive home tour and MINI of Concord Winter Wonderland. The event starts at 5:00 p.m. at MINI of Concord Collision Center, 1967 Market Street Concord, CA 94520. Invite all your friends and family. This one is not limited to MINI Owners or adults.
Come Monday we should be back to our regular posting schedule. Right now we are still unpacking. Hope all had a great Turkey Day and a lucrative Black Friday.
