After months of anticipation, the highly anticipated collaboration between fashion label Paul Smith and car brand Mini has finally been launched. This exciting partnership has resulted in the creation of a custom-made electric Mini Strip car that embodies the principles of sustainability. Both British brands have come together with a shared goal of promoting sustainable design, and this project is a testament to their commitment.
The process of creating the Mini Strip began by stripping down a three-door Mini Cooper SE to its core structure, removing any non-essential elements. Throughout this process, sustainability was prioritized, with every decision made with the environment in mind. The car’s exterior design embraces raw materials and deliberately leaves the body in an unfinished state. A thin film of transparent paint is then applied to provide protection. The galvanized steel panels of the car proudly display visible grinding marks, highlighting its functional nature and durability for everyday use. This intentional rugged aesthetic has been aptly described as “the perfect imperfection” by Paul Smith. Additionally, the car features visible screws in the add-on parts, showcasing the ease of dismantling and recycling the vehicle once it reaches the end of its life. This design choice drew inspiration from the simplicity and practicality of bicycles, which is a personal passion of Paul Smith.
Stepping inside the Mini Strip, one is immediately captivated by the iconic Paul Smith stripes. The interior boasts a vibrant composition of five colors, placing these iconic stripes front and center. Opening the charging flap reveals a pop of neon green, while the flap itself showcases an engraved drawing of an electric plug, personally created by Paul Smith. The interior of the car has been deliberately minimized, allowing the bodyshell to be the dominant visual feature. In order to enhance sustainability, recycled and environmentally friendly materials have been utilized throughout the interior. The seats, for example, are upholstered in a knitted fabric that completely eliminates the use of traditional materials like leather and chrome. Furthermore, the mono-material design of the seat coverings ensures that they are fully recyclable.
The collaboration between Paul Smith and Mini is not just a showcase of unique and sustainable design. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of conscious consumption within the automotive industry. By repurposing raw materials, reducing waste, and utilizing eco-friendly materials, this collaboration sets an example for the future of sustainable automotive design. The Mini Strip car stands as a testament to the power of creative collaborations and the potential for sustainable innovation within the fashion and automotive industries.
Useful links:
1. Paul Smith x Mini collaboration
2. Mini official website
