MINI Hosts 'Dare to Modify' Gathering Showcasing Creative Car Culture in Shanghai

A popular saying goes, 'If MINI doesn't modify, it might as well be thrown into the sea.' For MINI owners, purchasing a MINI is just the beginning; the real fun lies in the process of daring to modify, knowing how to modify, and falling in love with modification. From July 11 to 13, these daring representatives brought their modified MINIs to gather at the trendy landmark 'Wutong District' in Shanghai, showcasing a creative and vibrant MINI modification culture that turned heads on the streets this weekend. The official brand is taking the lead, embracing the trend without defining itself. MINI is unyielding when it comes to modifying production vehicles. As early as 1976, MINI launched its first special edition model, the Mini Limited Edition 1000, featuring quirky details like a bobbing air conditioning vent, shiny chrome mirrors, and tilting front seats — all results of daring modifications. At that time, it was rare for automotive brands to develop special edition models, but MINI has since paved the way with collaborations, such as co-designs with 'mini skirt' designers, the Rolls-Royce collaboration for the Goodwood edition, and the 'fastest-ever' MINI JCW GP. Over the years, countless classic models have emerged. This year, MINI is amplifying its reputation as a 'fashion blogger' in the car world, planning to release more than 10 special edition models in the Chinese market alone, offering diverse combinations of colors, materials, and personalized accessories to keep the offerings fresh and exciting. Beyond special editions, MINI has also created a series of unique 'non-sale' items. Before MINI's inception, no automotive brand had become such a distinctive cultural symbol. Iconic scenes, like Mr. Bean driving a Mini with a sofa on the roof, have inspired classic modification ideas. Fashion shows have also become a stage for MINI modifications. Paul Smith wrapped a MINI in 26 colors and 86 colorful stripes, wearing the brand's logo. The 'Mirror Mini' designed by David Bowie is considered one of the 'most dazzling' mobile art installations in history. This bold spirit has also fostered a 'word-of-mouth' phenomenon within the fan community. At this 'Dare to Modify MINI Conference,' over 100 modified MINIs displayed the owners' individual expressions, with one model being transformed into a mobile vendor car named 'Triple Sides,' embodying a multifaceted life of hard work and creativity; another, 'Not Just MINI,' carried a surfboard on top and towed a motorcycle behind, declaring a free-spirited lifestyle; and 'Everyone MINI' featured a new electric MINI Cooper towing a modified camping car from the previous generation, narrating the brand's legacy and innovation. For MINI owners, being 'not serious' is the real serious matter. The powerful 'race version' small rocket can be adapted for track racing. The imaginative design is MINI's external expression, while its racing prowess is its hidden genetic legacy. As early as the 1960s, the ancestor of the JCW brand, John Cooper, transformed the Mini into a 'triple crown' winner at the Monte Carlo Rally. The recently concluded 24-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring saw the new MINI JCW, equipped with its factory powertrain and only minor modifications, returning to the podium for the third consecutive year. This racing heritage encourages many performance car enthusiasts to modify their under-four-meter small cars into dream vehicles; particularly, MINI JCW owners are fortunate, as they can enjoy a 'race version' compact powerhouse with minimal upgrades. Thanks to MINI's open brand culture, its versatile product characteristics, and the passion of its numerous fans, the modification ecosystem for MINI has developed into a rich and diverse creative community. From specialized aftermarket parts produced by top suppliers to dedicated MINI modification shops, there is a plethora of options available. Every aspect, from power systems and exterior kits to interior decorations and classic car restorations, offers a wealth of modification choices catering to different owners' personalized needs. Whether through official or grassroots modifications, MINI continually demonstrates a boldness to break conventions and express individuality, continually expanding the boundaries of compact cars. The future of MINI is exciting because of this daring spirit!