2005 Mini Tender by Castagna

The 2005 Mini Tender by Carrozzeria Castagna was a highly stylized, hybrid beach car concept based on the MINI Cabrio, created to embody relaxed luxury and leisure. Inspired by the 1960s “Beachcomber” spirit, the Tender was designed as a modern-day automotive tender for yachts—practical for seaside use but executed with elegant, playful detail.

The car featured a 70 cm extended rear with an open luggage compartment finished in natural teak and fitted with chrome handrails, specifically made for transporting light recreational items like diving gear or picnic baskets. Traditional doors were removed, replaced with high wood-finished thresholds. The fabric roof remained functional, but now used a custom textile designed by Missoni.

Inside, materials were chosen for resilience against sun, sand, and salt. The seats were upholstered in waterproof fabric, and the cabin featured weather-resistant surfaces throughout. For comfort, the Tender included a 30-liter freshwater shower and a 2000-watt Clarion sound system, turning it into a true lifestyle accessory for beach-goers.

Underneath, the original MINI mechanics were enhanced with an electric motor, forming a hybrid drivetrain. Drivers could switch between electric and combustion power, or use the engine as a generator. The setup allowed up to 200 km of range and a top speed of 140 km/h—ideal for short-range coastal cruising with minimal environmental impact.

Though never intended for mass production, the Mini Tender showcased Castagna’s flair for luxury coachbuilding and creative reinterpretations of existing platforms, delivering a fun and functional concept for living the high-end beach life.