2 replies to this topic

[RichMPiBlue]

[mab01uk]

Reminded me of Rover's K-Series engined Mini concepts....ie. put a ‘K’ series engine into a Mini and you have MINKI.

The Minki I and Minki II - (1992)
The thinking behind the replacement for the Mini started back in about 1992, while under the ownership of British Aerospace and called at that time The Rover Group.
So how was the name MINKI arrived at, simple, put a ‘K’ series engine into a Mini and you have MINKI.
At the time the general feeling was that because the design was then thirty three years old, technology had moved on so much, and with new legislation on emissions and crash testing etc., that it was best to start with a clean sheet.

The first part of the concept stage was to do an appraisal of the current Mini and see how improvements could be made.
1) Improve the powerunit, by installing the ‘K’ series engine with a 5-speed gearbox
2) Improve the suspension, by installing hydragas suspension.
3) Improve the driving position, by installing better seats, altering the rack of the steering column, and along with the fascia / controls
4) Improve its overall luggage capacity, by making it into a hatchback and altering the rear end package.

It must be remembered that some times projects are started on, even no formal programme budget has been agreed. This can actually work quite well as it means that on a ‘zero-cost’ bases by using scrapped components and with no design resource it gives the Project Manager and the skilled fitters the flexibility to change the design as the work progresses. This work would be carried out in the Flight Shed Chassis workshop, were a small team who were used to working this way “in the good old days”.

A decision was made that the work would be divided into three parallel activities:-
1) A running vehicle modified to take the hydragas suspension and ‘K’ series engine / 5-speed gearbox.
2) A scrap bodyshell modified at the rear end to demonstrate the improved rear package and hatchback.
3) Another scrap bodyshell to develop the driver environment, with a ‘clayed up’ fascia, revised steering column arrangement, etc.
The above information, along with a brochure and slide show were used to make a presentation to senior management in October 1992.
The Full Minki Story here:-
http://www.austinmem...d-29/index.html

 

[coopertaz]

seems a very well enginered bit of kit and love the sleeper look wouldn't be surprised to see him knocking some of these out. Only criticism is front tie bars look odd that low down.