MINI Launches MINI_Motion Driving Shoe

Signature Collection Includes a 2part Driving Shoe With PUMA

NEW YORK, Sept. 30 -- MINI, the legendary small car brand, announces the launch of MINI_motion, a signature collection of apparel and accessories designed by industrial designer Yves Behar.

Designed with 'motion in mind,' the collection aids today's 'urban nomads' as they shift from street to car or any form of transport. In each situation, the MINI_motion collection adapts to the needs of the user.

  Highlights of the collection include:

   * A 2part driving shoe, manufactured by PUMA.  Based on the technology
     used in motorsport driving shoes, the shoe also cleverly features an
     inner 'bootie' for longer trips.
   * A unique car pack, engineered by Samsonite, which attaches to the
     passenger seat belt to secure the bag and its contents when driving.
   * The MINI_motion watch, with a digital display that changes from
     horizontal to vertical depending on your traveling needs.
   * A traveling jacket with integrated pockets to hold MINI city maps or
     even an MP3 player. The jacket also features a fold-down flap that acts

     as a seat extension or transforms into a bag when removed.

Items from the MINI_motion collection will be sold only in specialty stores such as Barneys NY Co-op in Miami, MoMA Design Store and Flight 001 as well as select PUMA stores beginning in September 2003. Retail prices range from $92.00 to $640.00 U.S.

"We know that today's city travelers often switch between modes of transport several times in a day. So, we created a collection that adds value to the traveler, whatever their mode of transport. We integrated good design with useable functionality into every piece of the MINI_motion collection. MINI_motion does not seek to follow seasonal tendencies and fashion trends, but focuses more on innovation and practical solutions to 'life in motion'," says Rinat Aruh, lifestyle development manager of MINI.

In support of the MINI_motion shoe, PUMA has 'styled' a concept car to bring its footwear technology to the automotive arena. With striking exterior graphics, the car also has an interior designed with airmesh(R), a footwear material that gives it a distinctive look. The PUMA MINI Cooper S will be showcased at select PUMA Concept Stores: New York (September 10th - 29th), South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa (October 6th - 13th), Santa Monica (October 16th - November 3rd), Santa Barbara (November 6th - 17th) and San Francisco (November 21st - December 15th).

For more information and photos: www.minimotionusa.com and mini.puma.com

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