So, the other day as I digitally argued with the new copier at work that insisted that I didn't want to simply make 10 copies...that I MUST want to do something fancier! (I lost the argument btw, I now have 10 fancy copies ) I was reminded of the driver oriented engineering that went into programming the MINI brain. If the MINI operated like the copier, starting it would be a 10 part process:

"Key detected in ignition..do you want to start vehicle?"
"Yes"
"Do you wish to idle or motor?"
"Motor"
"Will Motoring require reverse or forward driving?"
"Reverse then forward"
"Will motoring require audio?"
"Yes"
"Radio or CD?"
"CD"
"Wav or MP3?"
"MP3"
"Wav is higher quality audio than MP3..Are you sure you want MP3?"
"Yes"
"Wav has been selected for you"

You get the idea.

Kudos to MINI engineers for a lot of practical thought. As I slowly segue from brand new owner to owner, I appreciate the features that have been incorporated to HELP ME.

Everything from a boot that signals me that it has been properly closed by blinking the rear lights, to auto locking doors, a climate control that seems to wait until air heats before turning on the fan, seats that reposition correctly after getting something out of the back, speed sensitive audio and rain sensing, driving lights that turn off during startup with the E brake on (both a great safety feature and practical for us up here in the frozen tundra who need all the cranking power that we can get).

Although the MINI has been over-engineered in some respects; (climate controlled glovebox..heated seats and auto wipers that reset and have to be turned on each time you motor) and has one or two oversights; (digital read-out of speed would be nice..although I have chrono pkg so maybe that's included with center speedo, also IMO specific door ajar..although the boot blink helps, and there are only three doors; unlike my wife's Forester which has five doors and you have to circle the car closing doors like a maniac or the inside dome stays lit) overall the MINI is a joy to discover as a driver because the engineers must be drivers that like to drive...not program!

Now, if you will excuse me, I'm going to go make copies....if I can just convince the damn copier that I don't want pastel copies..reversed...and stapled!!

 

I'll second that!

A very well thought out critique and for the most part we are all thankful the engineers do love to drive! What a great job they have!

 

An excellent post. Now I'm going to have to find out if mine does all those things!