Why Mini Gave Up on a Pokémon Aceman?

One year ago, Mini presented a Pokemon collaboration. The Aceman has now launched, and we are still waiting for the special series!

Mini unveiled a Pokemon Mode dedicated to the new 100% electric Aceman at Gamescom 2022 in Cologne, Germany. Pikachu featured prominently on the car’s main screen, and starting the car was accompanied by the iconic lightning of the Pokemon star. The entire Pokemon imaginary came together in the Aceman to highlight the fun character of the new electric motorization. It was a clever marketing move rather than a genuine revolution, but during this occasion, we discovered a projector installed at the front of the vehicle capable of projecting images onto any flat surface. A simple yet super-effective idea to transform the car into an impromptu drive-in cinema or enjoy a good session of Pokemon Violet or Scarlet while recharging.

Unfortunately, nothing has happened since… It’s a shame because Mini is striving to attract the younger generation, and this connection with the ultra-popular video game franchise could only strengthen this approach. But sadly, it is not surprising, and it seems Mini has realized a generational incompatibility.

The brand’s main customers are middle-aged and largely indifferent to Pokemon, while the new generation of Pokemon fans does not seem interested in cars at all… let alone Mini, one of the oldest automotive brands. So why spend a hefty sum for a license for a collaboration that does not reach the target audience? Similarly, it’s hard to imagine Nintendo, the owner of the Pokemon license, generously granting it to Mini, whose clientele is outside the spectrum.

Mini is cool, is now electric, and targets a different audience, but not yet the younger generation. Maybe in a few years for a Vintage special edition…

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