Deus Ex Machina and Mini create tiny terrors

The partnership between Mini JCW and Deus Ex Machina blends motorsport heritage with a creativity, resulting in a pair of go-hard tearaways. One is electric, the other ICE powered.

Stefan Richmann, Head of Mini, said the project extends the company tradition of design and motorsport, taking it into a new realm.

Motorsport driven

Both cars take a purist design approach rooted in functionality. Based on the Mini JCW Electric (190kW) and the Mini JCW combustion (170kW), each roof bears a white ‘X’ to mark the collaboration. Details such as visible seams, tactile switches, and traditional levers highlight a motorsport essence. Meanwhile, bold graphics, numbers, and colours are a nod to Mini’s racing history. The pair come across as raw and handmade.

The Skeg

With influences from surf culture, the Skeg is defined by fibreglass and minimalism. Its yellow and silver finish symbolises Mini’s electric future. Design features include exaggerated fenders, an illuminated grille, a roof spoiler, and lightweight translucent fibreglass panels.

At the rear, the spoiler shape mimics the underside of a surfboard. Roof straps evoke the ritual of securing a surfboard, echoed inside the car on the dashboard and steering wheel. Fibreglass elements throughout the body and cabin change depending on the light angle, while the dashboard borrows surfboard construction techniques.

Inside, are analogue controls and tactile materials. Fibreglass trays provide storage for wetsuits, while neoprene bucket seats are flexible and water-repellent. 

The Machina

By contrast, Machina is Mini is a combustion-powered homage to motorsport. Its exterior features a red, white, and black livery with Deus branding. Widened fenders remind of racing heritage, while four bonnet-mounted headlights reference a rally background. A diffuser inspired by Mini’s Nordschleife racers optimises airflow, complemented by a central exhaust and Can-Am-style rear spoiler.

Up front, a bespoke grille, perforated headlight surrounds, and JCW light signature suggest performance. The interior continues the pared-back theme, with five-point harnesses, aluminium floor plates, stripped door panels, and a waxed fabric dash. An exposed roll cage adds safety and suggests a track-only orientation.

Included in the cabin are toggle switches, buttons, and a hydraulic handbrake This show car is a tribute to Mini’s racing DNA. 

Apparel Collection

Extending the collaboration into lifestyle, Mini and Deus created an apparel line for the pair that will be sold globally through Deus channels. High-quality materials and tailored design merge motorsport and lifestyle.

The Mini JCW x Deus collaboration premieres at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich. The cars and apparel are on display at the Mini pavilion throughout the show, under the motto: “You can be first after me.”