Mini unveils John Cooper Works GP Concept
Design is inspired by the car maker’s triumphs in the Monte Carlo Rally
Mini has revealed its John Cooper Works GP Concept ahead of its official unveil at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week.
The John Cooper Works GP Concept is wider, lower and lighter than the current Mini thanks to its use of lightweight materials such as a carbon-fibre and is inspired by the GP models of old.
Peter Schwarzenbauer, member of the board of management of BMW AG, said: “The MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept is all about the unfettered feeling of driving and levels of performance found in motor sport competition.
“This is driving fun in its purest form.”
Large intakes at the front of the car have been designed to effectively direct air to the car’s radiator, while also giving it more visual impact.
Carbon-fibre side skirts lower the overall look of the Concept, while 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels give it a more muscular look.
The rear of the car has been fitted with LED lights, as well as large twin tailpipes.
Inside, the Mini John Cooper Works GP Concept has been completely stripped back and fitted with a roll cage. A pair of bucket seats with five-point harnesses have also been included, as have steering wheel-mounted gear shift paddles. The rear seat bench, headliner and door trim panels have been removed to reduce weight too.
Mini has yet to release details about the Concept’s powertrain, though it’s likely to utilise the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine as that used in the standard John Cooper Works.
