MINI Rocketman Concept Debuts at Geneva Auto Show

MINI will be featuring a new concept car at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show that, if put into production, would be the smallest vehicle in the brand's lineup.

The MINI Rocketman concept car is small in stature but big on innovative features and design. Only 135-inches long, 55-inches tall and 75-inches wide, the MINI Rocketman measures about a foot shorter than current MINI Cooper models, and would classify as a “city car” (think Smart ForTwo). To help get you in and out of this "city car" The MINI Rocketman is equipped with double-hinged, bi-fold doors, a unique new design that provides passengers more room at the vehicle's entry points.

The Rocketman’s styling is striking and futuristic, and this concept is loaded with cool “techy” features that match the car’s image. The Rocketman’s glass rooftop includes integrated optical fibers that light up to display the trademark Union Jack flag, and the rear tail lamps jut out from the vehicle’s body creating two illuminated, oblong squares. The interior boasts its own cool additions including a trackball on the steering wheel to toggle through display options, a speedometer with 3D effects (which, frankly, sounds dangerous) and a joystick for vehicle specific controls.

For storage (as limited as it may be), the MINI employs a two part tailgate which features a hatch, and a section beneath the hatch that folds out like a drawer, presumably used to carry skis, snowboards or a small surfboard.

It is unclear whether MINI plans on putting this car into production, or is using the unveiling to showcase some new features that may be available on upcoming MINI installments. Also, no definitive word yet on what the Rocketman will be sporting under the hood. Rumors on the Rocketman’s fuel efficiency range from 78-98 mpg.