18 December 2024 – London, UK / Munich, Germany – MINI has unveiled their latest circular media system, incorporating a refreshed design language, that offers a seamless and enjoyable EV charging experience for drivers. This innovative system integrates Parkopedia’s award-winning EV charging data directly into the vehicle, making it easier for drivers in the USA, Europe, and Asia to locate and verify charging sessions without leaving their cars.
EV charging data plays a crucial role in the newest generation of electric MINIs, which feature the world’s first circular in-car OLED screen. The 240mm screen boasts high-resolution, advanced digital technology, and retains the iconic MINI design of a circular central dial. The lower section of the screen is dedicated to essential functions such as navigation, which can be accessed at any time for improved usability.
The OLED screen is the focal point of the minimalist interior, providing drivers with all core vehicle data, navigation, connected services, media, and climate controls. The new MINI Experience Modes allow drivers to personalize the displays and driving experience according to their preferences. This contributes to a clean and uncluttered interior layout, creating a more immersive and warm atmosphere for drivers. The system is designed to minimize distractions and allow drivers to focus on the driving experience, with all vehicle functions accessible through touch or voice controls.
The new technology is available in various global markets, including the USA, Europe, and Asia. MINI Navigation features 3D visualization and augmented reality displays, as well as information on available parking spaces and integrated in-car payment functionality, further enhancing the driver experience.
Charging remains a significant concern for many EV drivers, with over 90% of them reporting anxiety about charging in the latest Parkopedia Global Driver Survey. The new circular OLED screen and seamless functionality aim to change this perception, making charging a pleasant experience and a standout value-added feature for MINI drivers.
OLED screens are thinner and offer better color and contrast than LED equivalents, providing a punchier image and improved clarity while in motion. The integration of connected car services from Parkopedia adds value for MINI drivers, providing parking and charging data and seamless in-car payments. This allows drivers of the latest MINI models to effortlessly search for parking and charging options directly from the vehicle, navigate to these locations, and pay for parking directly from the car.
The demand for more sophisticated in-car services continues to grow, with 60% of drivers wanting in-car payments for services such as parking, charging, fuel, and tolls, according to the latest Parkopedia Global Driver Survey. Additionally, 56% of global motorists value EV charging features, including 74% of current EV drivers.
More than half of drivers considering an EV express concerns about finding charging stations away from home. Therefore, having in-car features that simplify the process of finding and paying for charging can encourage drivers to choose vehicles with these capabilities. Brands that execute these features well can also benefit from increased customer loyalty compared to those that do not provide assistance to their drivers.
Julian Kisch, Corporate and Governmental Affairs Spokesperson for MINI, said, “Not only does this service simplify the process of locating EV chargers, but it also aligns with MINI’s brand values and enhances the overall charging experience for MINI drivers.” Markus Dohl, VP of Sales Europe at Parkopedia, added, “MINI’s new circular media system offers a unique and customizable driving experience. With the integration of Parkopedia’s high-quality and extensive charging data, charmingly displayed on their circular OLED screen, this system addresses one of the main concerns of EV drivers – finding and navigating to charging stations. This can potentially alleviate charging anxiety and even bring a smile to the driver’s face. It is a significant selling point for a distinctive brand like MINI, with a significant portion of its vehicle range now being electric.”
For more information, please visit business.parkopedia.com.
About Parkopedia
Parkopedia is the leading connected car services provider used by automakers, organizations, and millions of drivers worldwide. The company helps drivers find and pay for parking, EV charging, fuel, and tolls in over 90 countries. Parkopedia is also developing highly detailed indoor maps and algorithms to aid drivers and self-driving vehicles in locating available parking spaces and EV charging stations. For more information, please visit business.parkopedia.com.
About MINI
The BMW Group is the world’s leading premium automobile and motorcycle manufacturer, with four brands: BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad. The company has over 30 production sites worldwide and a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
Media Contact:
Adam Calland
Marketing Director
T: +44(0)7838219129
E: adam.calland@parkopedia.com
MINI Media Contact:
Julian Kisch
Corporate and Governmental Affairs Spokesperson
