MINI One D
Published: 1st June 2003
Electric Avenue
Behind the scenes, MINI One D incorporates electronics that set new standards in the small car market.MINI’s electronics system uses the same wires and cables for different functions (rather than the norm of one wire/cable per function) with the various electronic tasks shared out among two primary units: the CAN bus system and the K bus system. CAN bus connects the engine management, brakes, electronic driver aids, transmission and the instruments. K bus is responsible for body electrics and electronics such as the interior lights, air conditioning, doors and windows.
Integration of these sub-systems and data transfer from one system to the other offers advantages over conventional electrical systems. Its double circuit reduces the required number of wires, cables and connectors, making the system very reliable and simplifying assembly. Weight is also reduced and it is easier to integrate electronic options.
Let there be light: MINI’s elliptical halogen headlights feature an innovative reflector system.
Three beams are produced from two bulbs in MINI’s headlights with the inclusion of a patented reflector, generating up to 25 per cent more light intensity than the power of the two bulbs combined. The headlights are incorporated into the unique one-piece clamshell bonnet, which required innovative engineering processes to manufacture.
Options include Xenon lights that feature an auto-levelling function, halogen fog lamps, a headlight washing system and heated washer jets and wing mirrors.
MINI One D owners will also see the light inside the car. The interior is illuminated by a light in the middle of the roof lining and the boot is also lit. MINI also incorporates a “follow me home” function, which keeps the headlamps on for 30 seconds after the door is closed.
It’s not an easy steal: Remote central locking controls doors, boot and the chrome fuel cap from up to 15 metres and instantly illuminates the interior.
An electronic immobiliser (Thatcham category grade two), activated from the key via a transponder is standard the MINI One D. An optional Thatcham category grade one alarm system is also available – it has its own power supply and is set off immediately upon forced-entry into the car. It also responds to any attempt at lifting up or pushing the car away. Once the alarm is activated, the hazard warning lights and the horn come on for 30 seconds. After this time, a flashing light indicates that the system has been activated.
Sound system MINI: The ICE system (In-Car Entertainment) is tailored to MINI One D’s internal acoustics and dimensions.
The basic audio system features a radio/tape and six loudspeakers – four in the front doors and two in the rear side panels.
Options will include a radio BOOST, single slot CD/radio, single slot MINI Disc/radio and a six CD changer fitted in the boot, with a Harman/Kardon HiFi system the icing on the cake.
Playing It Safe
Active and passive safety are market-leading and include fade free brakes, traction control, electronic brakeforce distribution, optional run-flat tyres, up to six airbags and a stiff bodyshell capable of absorbing impressive levels of crash impact energy.
As on all MINIs, MINI One D is fitted with disc brakes all round (276 x 22 mm at the front and 259 x 10 mm at the rear) – the front discs are vented.
