The Mini Clubvan Is A Boutique Cargo Hauler

Published: Monday, March 25, 2013, 11:41 [IST]

The Mini Clubvan is everything that a Mini Cooper is and more. The Clubvan, shown as a concept during the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, will soon be available for delivery in the U.S. It may not be available in India, but the idea of a delivery van that caters to the niche market, based on a premium hatchback such as the Mini, looks interesting nevertheless to be featured.

Yes, one would not think of transporting poultry products in one of these. But a one of a kind, premium cargo hauler like this will "fit excellently into the fleet of a fashion designer, art gallery owner or catering service," to put it in Mini's words. "And its abilities as an all-rounder also tick the right boxes for a photographer with a stack of camera, tripod and lighting equipment to ferry around during the week."

MotoringFile has learned a few useful facts about the Mini Clubvan ahead of its availability in the States. The Clubvan will have a starting price of $25,985, which includes taxes and delivery charges.

A question that naturally arises is whether one could convert a regular Cooper S or a John Cooper Works model into a Clubvan by simply removing the rear seats.

It does not work that way, however. The Mini Clubvan is slightly different than a regular Cooper. Besides the two side hinged doors at the rear, the sides of the cargo area are enforced with steel panels, instead of vinyl covering. Then there is the solid aluminum and stainless steel honey comb grating to separate the front seating area from the carbo bay.

The Minivan can hold up to 1,102 pounds of cargo and has 30.37 cubic-feet of carrying area. Other features include the anthracite interior liner, six attachment loops and 12-volt sockets.