The Mini model has gone to nice lengths — actually — in the course of the previous 20 years to embrace and entertain its loyal following by sponsoring cross-country caravans to rejoice its merchandise and prospects. This summer season, the caravan reforms as soon as once more.
Formally referred to 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 often called to Mini followers, first rolled out in 2006, with Mini USA utilizing it as a option to rejoice 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 isn’t aggressive. The thought is to attach Mini house owners and allow them to share their enthusiasm in regards to the model and their experiences with it. Mini plans festivities alongside the route and normally a “Rally Finale” on the ultimate night. So far as bills — motels, most meals — individuals are on their very own, though breakfasts and a few night occasions with meals are supplied by Mini. The thought is to create constructive 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 available to carry out repairs like engine laptop diagnostics, gentle bulb replacements, tire modifications, and different non-major work.
Members will initially head north from New Mexico by Colorado and Utah to Salt Lake Metropolis. Persevering with by Massive Sky nation, MTTS 2024 will cease in Bozeman and Missoula, Mont., then head west to Spokane, Wash. From there, drivers will cruise southwest by the scenic mountains and valleys of Yakima, Wash., winding up in Seattle.
“We’re excited to reconnect with our Mini house owners nationwide to foster present relationships, forge new friendships and make lasting recollections, this time in a few of our unbelievable and majestic western states,” mentioned Mike Peyton, vice chairman and “chief motorer” for Mini of the Americas, in a press launch. “Understanding the particular nature of this occasion for our group, we’ve curated a rare 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 totally different factors within the drive and confirmed off their 800 Minis alongside the best way.
This yr’s cell celebration is to start July 13. Updates will probably be posted right here at Mini’s web site, and the video under recaps the 2022 rally:
