The Mini model has gone to nice lengths — actually — throughout the previous twenty years to embrace and entertain its loyal following by sponsoring cross-country caravans to have fun its merchandise and clients. This summer time, the caravan reforms as soon as once more.
Formally known as “Mini Takes the States,” the rally in mid-July is scheduled to embark from Albuquerque, N.M., and end eight days later in Seattle. Visiting 5 states and 9 cities, a number of hundred drivers and their passengers are anticipated to hitch the caravan for half or the entire journey.
MTTS, because it’s turn out to be generally known as to Mini followers, first rolled out in 2006, with Mini USA utilizing it as a approach to have fun the introduction of the primary, hardcore GP version of its high-performance John Cooper Works mannequin.
It has since turn out to be a biennial occasion, with every rally taking a distinct route across the U.S.
It is not aggressive. The thought is to attach Mini homeowners and allow them to share their enthusiasm in regards to the model and their experiences with it. Mini plans festivities alongside the route and often a “Rally Finale” on the ultimate night. So far as bills — lodges, most meals — contributors are on their very own, though breakfasts and a few night occasions with meals are offered by Mini. The thought is to create optimistic publicity and “good emotions” for the model, and to promote extra Minis.
Since Minis are, on the finish of the day, cars, service could also be required alongside the MTTS route. Technicians are readily available to carry out repairs like engine pc diagnostics, mild bulb replacements, tire adjustments, and different non-major work.
Individuals will initially head north from New Mexico via Colorado and Utah to Salt Lake Metropolis. Persevering with via Large Sky nation, MTTS 2024 will cease in Bozeman and Missoula, Mont., then head west to Spokane, Wash. From there, drivers will cruise southwest via the scenic mountains and valleys of Yakima, Wash., winding up in Seattle.
“We’re excited to reconnect with our Mini homeowners nationwide to foster present relationships, forge new friendships and make lasting recollections, this time in a few of our unbelievable and majestic western states,” stated Mike Peyton, vp and “chief motorer” for Mini of the Americas, in a press launch. “Realizing the particular nature of this occasion for our group, we’ve curated a unprecedented journey that guarantees an unforgettable expertise.”
Two years in the past, MTTS 2022 kicked off in Burlington, Vt., and concluded in Spartanburg, S.C., after eight days on the highway and 1,700 miles. Greater than 2,000 individuals joined in at completely different factors within the drive and confirmed off their 800 Minis alongside the way in which.
This yr’s cellular celebration is to start July 13. Updates might be posted right here at Mini’s web site, and the video beneath recaps the 2022 rally: