Heilmer will commence work as head of design at Mini from September 1, 2017. The 42-year-old German earlier led BMW's creative design division for a year, before which, he was head of BMW’s interior design team in Munich.
The Mini brand is at a turning point – it’s looking to grow its electrified range and implement more futuristic designs. The company’s Vision Next 100 concept shown in 2016 showcased the carmaker’s intent.
The Countryman S E Cooper All4 is Mini’s first plug-in hybrid and the company is looking to sell its first electric model in 2019. Five more electric models will then follow.
Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design, said: “I am confident that the Mini design team under Oliver Heilmer will implement this vision of the brand in future vehicle models and win over Mini customers. With his design expertise and experience, Heilmer combines continuity with the freshness and vision that Mini stands for.”
Heilmer’s role at Designworks will be taken over by Holger Hampf.
