MINI Beachcomber Won't Be Made

We do know that MINI is currently working on the expansion of its product lineup in the future, but the models to be introduced are still an enigma for all of us. It was initially believed that the Beachcomber concept could actually make it to production, as it received positive feedback since its unveiling in December 2009. However, the British iconic carmaker has looked in the matter once again and took a final decision: the Beachcomber won't be made.

The reason behind this decision, Autocar writes, is the safety level provided by the vehicle which would have to undergo several modifications to raise the amount of protection provided to passengers. A preview of what could be a production-ready Beachcomber was expected to be revealed at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, but the British brand could eliminate the vehicle from its display.

In order to comply with safety requirements, the Beachcomber would need extra side protection bars but, according to the aforementioned source, implementing such extras into the car would only alter the final design.

Curiously, it was initially believed that MINI would actually implement a bunch of modifications to make the Beachcomber safer, including changes that could affect the overall design of the vehicle. It was thought that the Beachcomber concept’s high side sills were sufficient to allow the vehicle to pass most safety tests. However, the production version will ditch the concept’s doorless layout, using four proper doors - the rear ones will feature rear hinges.

As we told you so many times now, we'll be attending the 2011 North American International Auto Show, so we'll keep you posted with the goodies displayed at MINI's booth.