MINI to Mass-Produce 2011 Rocketman Concept, Launching in 2029

MINI is planning to put the Rocketman urban concept car—first unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show—into production. Measuring approximately 3.6 meters in length, the model is positioned as a fully electric city microcar smaller than the current MINI Cooper, with an expected lower price point. The project’s main challenge lies in integrating modern advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) within the limited vehicle dimensions while meeting increasingly stringent safety regulations, including pedestrian protection and sensor placement requirements. Holger Hampf, Head of MINI Design, stated that despite the compact size, the brand will not compromise on safety or technology features, aiming for a five-star NCAP safety rating. Due to space constraints, the production model is expected to feature a smaller battery than the Cooper, offering a range of around 241 kilometers, with fast charging not being a priority. The production version of the Rocketman will compete against urban EVs such as the new Renault Twingo, Smart #2, and Volkswagen ID. Lupo. MINI has not yet announced a specific launch date, but given that its current lineup will undergo major updates between 2027 and 2028, the Rocketman could debut as early as 2029.