MINI Spirit

This is the car that will take the MINI into a new dimension. Set to hit the road as early as 2011, the zero emission Spirit is being developed alongside two new models from a joint venture between Fiat and BMW that will produce the Topolino and the re-invented Isetta. Boasting an advanced electric engine mounted at the rear, the Spirit will offer four full-size seats, despite being smaller than the current two-door car. In-wheel electric motors and lithium-ion batteries are a very real possibility too – thanks to the technology that’s already been developed for the MINI E. Lightweight, tough plastic bodywork is under consideration, while the car’s chassis will mix aluminium and composite materials like carbon fibre to deliver enormous strength and light weight.