Mini, the automaker known for its compact cars, is set to introduce a new digital assistant called Spike, inspired by an English Bulldog, to its future models. While the exact features of Spike are still unknown, the dog-like digital assistant is expected to help drivers navigate their car’s operating concept while fostering an emotional connection with its owner. Spike will make its debut at the Shanghai auto show in the Mini Concept Aceman, a compact electric crossover that emphasizes personalization and technology.
Mini’s parent company BMW has a track record of focusing on personalized digital experiences in its concept cars. This year’s i Vision Dee features a dashboard-length heads-up display, voice commands, and a color-changing exterior. With Spike, Mini hopes to create a unique digital assistant that will keep drivers coming back to its cars for more than just their performance on the road.
While other automakers have introduced digital assistants in their vehicles, Mini’s Spike represents a more characterful approach. Whether this approach will appeal to drivers remains to be seen, but it could provide a welcome change from personality-free digital assistants in other cars. Mini plans to reveal more details about Spike’s features later this year, so stay tuned for updates.
