Mini Connected app adds performance info to vehicle display

Mini is introducing an updated iPhone app for the Mini Connected system. It displays performance data in the entertainment screen in Minis that have Visual Boost or with a navigation system and the Mini Connected option.

The main functions of the system include a condition check, force meter and digital sports instruments.

The condition check function keeps track of the engine temperature, fuel level, status of the sport button, outside temperature and signs of rain. If everything checks out--including the weather--the screen will display “BE MINI,” which means its OK for the driver to engage in some spirited driving.

The force meter measures and records the latitudinal and longitudinal g forces and displays them in the center of the speedometer. The on-board monitor uses a virtual Mini to show which direction the forces are going. The function also includes various segments that illuminate to reflect the driver's responses.

The digital sports instrument function adds info to the standard cockpit dials. The center features a coolant-temperature gauge while engine output is displayed in the form of a bar chart and figures. Drivers can request either the engine's current rpm level or the amount of torque being used to be displayed. All of the info is presented in drag-indicator mode so that the values stay visible for a few seconds after the driver's foot leaves the gas pedal.

The functions can be activated with the new mode-selection system. Excitement mode centers on the driver, which disables all other functions, while Mini-malism/Infotainment mode brings all extemporaneous options back.

Functions already included in the Mini Connected system are Web radio, Facebook, Twitter, RSS news-feed reception, Google Services, Mission Control, Dynamic Music and Minimalism Analyzer.

Various markets of the world will have different functions; we're still waiting to see whether this exact system will come to the United States.

By Jake Lingeman