ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Vagabund and MINI create custom Countryman vehicles with integrated Walkmans and speaker-inspired designs

architecture-design · 2026-04-16

The Austrian design firm Vagabund teamed up with the British automotive company MINI to create two unique MINI Countryman S ALL4 vehicles that serve as mobile stages for festivals. These exclusive models are equipped with high-quality outdoor sound systems that replace the usual rear side windows, with casings made from cast polymer granite to ensure acoustic neutrality. Each vehicle showcases distinct visual styles: the Melting Silver version features sand and white accents for a striking appearance, while the Midnight Black variant embraces a sleek monochrome design. Modifications include enlarged wheel arches, custom front bumpers, and 20-inch wheels adorned with 3D-printed covers resembling speaker diaphragms. The roof rack is fitted with laser-cut aluminum plates and stainless-steel mesh that imitate professional speaker grilles. A classic Sony Walkman is housed in a custom 3D-printed enclosure on the side, offering a contrast between powerful sound projection and personal analog music playback. The ALL4 drive system is elevated for easier access to remote festival sites, positioning these vehicles as "event vehicles" focused on shared experiences rather than mere transportation. This collaboration builds upon MINI's earlier JCW Deus Ex Machina project, shifting towards a more refined electronic aesthetic instead of motorcycle culture influences. Both initiatives prioritize technical craftsmanship and community-oriented design over mass-market trends.

Key facts

  • Two bespoke MINI Countryman S ALL4 vehicles created by Vagabund and MINI
  • Vehicles function as mobile festival stages with outdoor sound systems
  • Sound system housings made from cast polymer granite for acoustic neutrality
  • Melting Silver and Midnight Black variants offer contrasting aesthetics
  • Structural modifications include widened wheel arches and custom bumpers
  • 20-inch wheels feature 3D-printed covers resembling loudspeaker diaphragms
  • Roof rack designed with laser-cut aluminum plates mimicking speaker grilles
  • Classic Sony Walkman integrated into custom 3D-printed housing

Entities

Institutions

  • Vagabund
  • MINI

Locations

  • Austria
  • United Kingdom

Sources