MINI JCW x Deus Ex Machina
Respect for the history of motorsports
Deus Ex Machina, a popular brand in the world of street culture, including surfing, motorcycling, and skateboarding, has created two one-off models based on the theme of motorsport tradition.
With deep respect for the craftsmanship, culture and community that shapes them, MINI and Deus Ex Machina have created two one-off vehicles inspired by the MINI John Cooper Works: “Skeg” is based on the MINI John Cooper Works Electric, and “Makina” is based on the ICE-spec MINI John Cooper Works.
This time, the designers of the two brands chose the theme of “beauty in imperfection” and deliberately took a handmade approach. Deus Ex Machina Creative Director Kirby Tuckwell and his creative team oversaw the unique exterior graphics of the two cars. The graphics, which consist of numbers, geometric patterns and vibrant colors, pay homage to MINI’s motorsport heritage.
The roof of each vehicle features a large white “X,” a key design element symbolizing the collaboration between the two brands. Stephan Lichmann, Head of the MINI Brand, explained the collaboration with Deus Ex Machina:
“MINI models have always combined creative design with motorsport. Our collaboration with Deus Ex Machina has taken this philosophy to a new level, creating an exciting new style for MINI fans and motorsport enthusiasts.”
A fully electric sport that embodies surf culture
Inspired by the world of surfing, the Skeg features a Flex Tip Surf Spoiler at the rear that resembles a surfboard.
Based on the MINI John Cooper Works Electric, which is equipped with a fully electric powertrain, Skeg embodies clean, minimalist and quiet rebellion, fusing materials, technology and philosophy inspired by the world of surfing.
The vibrant yellow and silver bodywork symbolizes MINI’s pioneering approach to electric mobility. The translucent glass fiber panels reduce vehicle weight by 15% and significantly improve aerodynamics. The wide fenders, illuminated front grille, and roof spoiler accentuate the car’s racing-inspired silhouette.
The rear section is fitted with a “Flex Tip Surf Spoiler” that actively reacts to the airflow so that the surfboard rides the contours of the wave. Its shape was inspired by the concave shape of a surfboard.
Tension straps for securing surfboards are placed on the roof. Tension strap motifs are also used as accents on the dashboard and the 6 o’clock position on the steering wheel. Fiberglass parts on the roof, front, and interior capture changes in light and change color depending on the time of day and the environment.
Incorporating materials familiar from surfing
The interior is fitted with a fiberglass tray for wetsuits, and the seats are made of neoprene, a material commonly used for wetsuits.
The interior, with minimal analog controls, is simple and tactile, embodying surf culture’s emphasis on practicality over sophistication, and is reminiscent of a mobile surf shop.
The lightweight racing bucket seats are made of neoprene, a material that is flexible and water-repellent, and is also commonly used for surfing wetsuits. The interior prioritizes functionality, and a fiberglass tray is installed for storing wetsuits. The specially shaped storage provides practical storage space while also bringing surf culture into the car.
A large “X” mark is used as a visual accent, continuing from the roof. The special badge on the center console and 3D-printed detailing represent the shared image of the two brands: craftsmanship and a desire to drive.
“Makina” featuring motorsports
Featuring light pods reminiscent of rally cars, the Machina is inspired by MINI’s motorsport culture.
Machina combines the compact body of the MINI John Cooper Works with rally-inspired mechanics and motorsport pedigree. Drawing inspiration from the world of motorsport, it embodies pure competitive passion and practical functionality.
The exterior design pays homage to the motorsport tradition of the MINI brand. Bold accents are added to the red, white, and black body colors, and the “DEUS” logo is boldly painted on the rear. The specially designed grille and perforated headlight surrounds improve cooling performance.
The classic wide fenders, which combine function and aesthetics, highlight the car’s racing heritage. The Can-Am-style rear spoiler pays homage to an era when design and technology were pushed to their limits. Four light pods added to the hood highlight MINI’s rally roots. Each light pod also features a subtle “DEUS” logo.
The exhaust pipes are integrated into the center, and the rear diffuser was inspired by the race-spec MINI John Cooper Works that raced on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Hydraulic handbrake returns
The Machina’s racing-inspired cockpit. The electric parking brake on the base model has been replaced with a hydraulic handbrake with a large lever.
The Machina’s interior follows the same red, white, and black color theme as the exterior. Five-point racing harnesses offer a hint of the ultimate driving experience, while aluminum floor plates reflect the utilitarian aesthetic found in Deus Ex Machina’s custom motorcycle workshop.
The roll cage is exposed overhead. Lightweight and durable features include simple door panels with a bold white “X” motif and a waxed fabric dashboard. Controls such as the iconic MINI toggle switches are designed to function intuitively and reliably even under the harshest conditions.
The electric parking brake found on the base model has been replaced with a hydraulic handbrake with a large lever, which acts as a direct link between the driver and the vehicle while driving.
As part of the partnership, MINI and Deus Ex Machina will also produce a limited-edition collaborative apparel collection, which will be unveiled at the IAA in Munich on September 8, 2025, and will then go on sale in official Deus Ex Machina stores.
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