It’s a MINI New Year quiz – so it’s only got one question! When Prime Minister David Cameron drove the two millionth MINI off of the production line at Plant Oxford in August last year, how far would all of those cars stretch if placed bumper to bumper?
That production landmark was just one of a host of achievements during 2011, the most significant of which was that MINI recorded its highest ever UK sales since launch in 2001 and captured a record 2.58 per cent of the market, with sales of 50,135 vehicles, an increase of more than 14 per cent compared to 2010.
April saw the launch of the Cooper SD, the most powerful diesel MINI ever. Available in all body types, the 2.0-litre 143hp four-cylinder engine delivers more power, better fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions.
Soon after came the all-new MINI Coupé, the first two-seater sports car in the brand’s history. Bringing the fun and personality of MINI to a new sector, it offers a dynamic performance that owners are already growing to love.
And in October came first details of the sixth unique MINI model; the Roadster. The taut-handling Roadster is packed with MINI character and will offer open-topped thrills to a new type of customer when it goes on sale in the spring.
The MINI Inspired by Goodwood limited edition made its European debut at the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed in June. A unique collaboration between Rolls-Royce and MINI, it blends the best elements of both brands. Just 1,000 examples are being built, priced at £41,000, and the first will be delivered in March.
Last year saw MINI hint at a possible solution to the challenges of urban mobility, unveiling its innovative 3+1 seater Rocketman Concept at March’s Geneva Motor Show.
The pioneering MINI E UK Field Trial came to an end in 2011. Scores of private, corporate and public sector drivers gave feedback on living with a full electric MINI Hatch. Together they covered more than 250,000 miles, at an average charge cost of under 2p for each one.
Also looking to the future was the MINI production triangle, where it was announced at Downing Street that £500 million of new investment is to be spent over the next two years. Plant upgrades to build the next generation of cars will safeguard more than 5,000 UK jobs.
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