MINI partners with Deus Ex Machina for custom JCW duo

MINI has announced a collaboration with lifestyle brand Deus Ex Machina to create two exclusive one-off John Cooper Works vehicles.

The partnership has produced “The Skeg” – an electric-powered show car – and “The Machina” – a combustion-engine model. Both vehicles are based on MINI John Cooper Works platforms and feature design elements inspired by surfing culture and motorsport respectively.

“MINI models have always been characterised by a blend of creative design and motorsport dynamics,” says Stefan Richmann, Head of MINI. “Thanks to our collaboration with Deus Ex Machina, we are taking this philosophy to a new level and setting exciting new trends for fans and motorsport enthusiasts.”

Surf and electricity mix?

The Skeg features a yellow and silver finish and produces up to 190kW. The MINI JCW Electric features a 54.2kWh battery pack and has a WLTP electric range of up to 404km. It supports fast DC charging, reaching 10% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes at a 95kW speed, and 0–100% AC charging at 11kW in approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes.

The electric show car incorporates semi-transparent fibreglass panels that reduce weight by 15% while improving aerodynamic performance.

Design elements include a rear spoiler that responds to airflow and tension straps across the roof that reference surfboard securing methods. The interior features neoprene upholstery in racing bucket seats and fibreglass trays designed for wetsuit storage.

“Every single detail has been crafted with artisanal precision and expertise,” says Holger Hampf, Head of MINI Design. “This has resulted in unique characters that are clearly perceived as belonging together through their distinctive design language and use of graphics.”

Combustion model focuses on track elements

The Machina uses a 170kW combustion engine and features red, white and black paintwork. The exterior includes four additional headlights mounted on the bonnet and a rear diffuser inspired by the MINI JCW race car that competed on the Nordschleife.

Interior elements include five-point racing harnesses, raw aluminium floor plates, and toggle switches. Both vehicles feature a large white ‘X’ on the roof as a connecting design element.

Design team collaboration

The project involved MINI’s creative team working with Deus’ Creative Director Carby Tuckwell and designer Matt Willey. The collaboration builds on previous work between Deus and Willey, including a Mini Cooper S racing car created in 2022.

“Deus has had a longstanding creative partnership with Matt – one powered by a true respect for the power of design and art,” says Tuckwell. “Having him involved in this project for us was a no-brainer.”

Willey is a partner at design firm Pentagram and former art director of the New York Times Magazine.

Apparel collection and launch details

The collaboration includes a capsule apparel collection launching on September 8, 2025. The range will be available globally through Deus Ex Machina’s e-commerce and retail network.

The vehicles made their world premiere at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, with an exclusive event held on September 6 at the MINI Pavilion. The collaboration remained on display at the pavilion until September 14.

MINI says the partnership operates under the motto “You can be first after me” and promises further automotive collaborations.