Mini Tender

The Mini Tender is a bespoke concept vehicle developed in 2005 by Carrozzeria Castagna, a Milan-based coachbuilder with a history dating back to 1849. Designed by Gioacchino Acampora, the Mini Tender was based on the first-generation BMW Mini Cabriolet and reimagined as a modern interpretation of the classic Italian “spiaggina” beach car. This design paid homage to mid-20th-century leisure vehicles such as the Fiat 500 Jolly, blending automotive and nautical aesthetics. Unveiled at the 2005 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the Mini Tender featured an extended rear overhang by approximately 70 centimetres, creating an open teak-lined cargo area reminiscent of yacht decking. The vehicle’s doors were removed and replaced with high sills clad in wood, facilitating easy access and enhancing its maritime character. The interior was outfitted with waterproof neoprene seats and materials resistant to sun, salt, and sand exposure. A 30-litre fresh water tank with a built-in shower was included, along with a 2000-watt Clarion audio system, underscoring its suitability for coastal leisure activities. Mechanically, the Mini Tender retained the standard Mini Cabriolet’s drivetrain but incorporated a hybrid propulsion system. This system allowed the driver to switch between the internal combustion engine and an electric motor, providing a range of up to 200 kilometres and a top speed of 140 km/h. The hybrid configuration was managed by an onboard resource optimisation programme, enabling the combustion engine to function as a generator for battery recharging. The Mini Tender remained a one-off concept and was not intended for mass production. It exemplifies Carrozzeria Castagna’s approach to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, creating vehicles that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. The Mini Tender stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of custom coachbuilding in the contemporary automotive landscape.