Mini Proves Rooftop Camping Is The Next Big Thing

We hope Mini's penchant for quirkiness never fades. Earlier this month, the BMW-owned brand showcased a range offactory accessoriesavailable for the all-electricMini SE, specifically roof rails that can secure in place things like a roof box, ski racks, and an aluminum luggage basket. But why stop there? Why not use those roof racks to secure an entire tent? That's exactly what's been done.

The Mini Original Accessories range now includes a roof tent that will enable Mini SE andMini SE Countrymanplug-in hybrid owners to combine road trips with camping. Who needs an air-conditioned hotel room, right?

The new accessory is available for the Countryman All4 and Classic Plus Package when they're supplemented by the roof rail. The roof tent can easily be mounted on those rails with a railing rack. It's the same deal for the Cooper SE, which Mini points out is the only battery-electric currently on sale that can be equipped with roof rails. Owners simply need to buy the matching carrier system in the brand's accessories range and that's it. Time to hit the road and the camping sites.

Mini is highlighting the fact it now offers two eco-friendly models that offer a different type of sustainability aside from electrification. The roof tent enables all kinds of green-friendly adventures. Mini says the tent will not significantly alter the vehicles' aerodynamics during driving when it's folded flat. The base platform remains in place while the tent's walls and ceiling collapse.