Charity Auction of George’s New Mini

MINI has come up with a fresh interpretation of George’s original Mini to coincide with the brand’s 50th birthday. The one-off model was handed over to Olivia at the MINI United event. Olivia accepted the Mini on behalf of the Material World Charitable Foundation, a charity set up by George in 1973. The car will be auctioned in aid of the Foundation later in the year.

MINI United – the world’s biggest fan event – took place at Silverstone in the UK on 22-24 May 2009. The festival delivered three days of non-stop entertainment for the brand’s large fan community. MINI United is all about concerts, shows, car races, etc., and provided the perfect stage on which to showcase the unique new MINI inspired by George Harrison.

Back in 1966, The Beatles’ manager, Brian Epstein, gave each of the Fab Four a Mini Cooper S s a gift. In keeping with the zeitgeist of the time, lead guitarist George had his car painted with psychedelic images such as yantras and Sanskrit mantras. In 1967, this legendary Mini starred in The Beatles’ film Magical Mystery Tour. And now, to coincide with its latest landmark anniversary, MINI is dedicating a modern interpretation of George’s car to the man himself. The MINI has been designed according to the wishes of Olivia Harrison and rekindles the look of George’s famous original.

“George was a huge MINI fan and he would have enjoyed creating this new version. The fact that BMW’s anniversary celebrations will also benefit our Foundation has made it an enjoyable as well as meaningful collaboration,” said Olivia Harrison.