We already know that MTTS will start in Monterey and drives East-ish to Limerock. One clarification we’ve been told is that there will be no eastern starting point. The trip will start at Monterey CA is expected to make stops in a handful of US cities along the way to Lime Rock in CT.
MINIUSA knows that most US owners can’t take two weeks off to do the whole event, and has planned this to be as flexible as possible so people can join for a few hours or a few days. MINI USA will also be publicizing MTTS to non-owners as a way to sell the brand and show-off the cars. So you can also think of MTTS as a rolling configurator of sorts. And finally MINI USA will be reaching out to all the clubs to encourage them to take part as well.
MINI dealers will have the option to get groups of owners together to drive from their location to the route for a day, two days, etc. There will be an official route map, and we’ve been told to expect plenty of surprises during the trip.
We’ll have much more on MINI Takes the States in the coming days and weeks.
<blockquote>And finally MINI USA will be reaching out to all the clubs to encourage them to take part.</blockquote>
I’ve said it before, but I think it bears repeating.
If MINIUSA/BSSP are looking for more ways to involve local clubs they should look at affiliating their MotoringHearts campaign to local MINI clubs already raising money for charity. MINIUSA would get some concrete evidence that MINI owners are actually going out and doing good works, and the clubs would benefit from having the exposure from MINIUSA.
MINI clubs have already been raising money for Katrina relief (MotoringFile and NAM backed these efforts as well) and for such causes as fighting cancer and autism.
[steps off soapbox]
Gabe, any word on dates for when the caravan is expected to arrive at the various waypoints on this cross country adventure?
Thank you Gabe.
I’d like to do the whole event, but with a 2 year old at home, I don’t think my wife would be very happy.
I will probably end up picking the car up in Monterey, hit the first couple events. Drive home for a few days (Doylestown, PA) to catch my breath, then meet up again in DC.
I can’t wait to learn more!
Wow, a MINIvan that will actually make a trip cross country. I heard a few whispers about this in phillyMINI, my local group. I hope we get a chance to participate.
Joe
mini2nv2004
04 MCS EB/W and Union Jacks
I am first on the list at my local dealer so I am guessing I will get invited, but am I the only one who isn’t that excited about this?
Hmm doesn’t California Law make you pay sales tax to get temp tags? Then when folks get back to license them, some states will make you pay again, no?
Would love one if I could get a back seat option.
Dave – Many dealerships are doing exactly that.
Gabe, this all sounds like fun. Can you put some dates to the events. Especially when they will be at Lime Rock.
Thanks.
Limerock is expected to be September 2.
[back on the soap box]
robble – some dealerships are, but that’s a dealership by dealership decision and more based on the dealer principle’s good will.
What I’m looking for is for MINIUSA to reach out to the local clubs or provide a channel of communication for clubs to inform MINIUSA of their contributions. I think MINIUSA might be surprised at how many MINI clubs have have been leading the way within the MINI community in terms of charitable giving and charity support. It would be nice to have those efforts further recognized and endorsed via motoringhearts.
[off my soapbox again]
The fuzzy hubby and I are part of the lucky 80. We’re the first on the list at Checkered Flag so will be going to Monterey.
And we both have jobs with flexible schedules so can take the whole two weeks. We are both really excited about this! I can’t think of a promotion in the last thirty years to match this one!
I’m gonna be on at least part of this one, for sure! I’ve heard a whiff of a rumour of a whisper or two that Lost Wages might be a stop, and if so, the run from Monterey to LV would be way cool!
BCNU,
Rob in Dago
Without doubt I think this cross country trek will take in London Bridge at Lake Havasu City.
Imagine the photo opportunities.
I personally won’t have the time for the sea to shining sea bit but will probably drive to see the tour as it snakes into Lime Rock Park CT. I notice BMW is putting big time sponsorship into the park.
Gabe,
Any more information from MINI, such as their press release on MTTS? I didn’t see anything coming out of the NY Auto Show.
Charlie
From what I understand, as a Motoring Advisor in Las Vegas, dealerships will provide new owners with a temporary tag to take with them and put on their MINI. You will not have to pay any additional California taxes.
The dealership here in Vegas is already making plans for MTTS. I look forward to seeing loads of MINIs in town again. We had 300+ for AMVIV III, and this could be bigger!
Cheers!
Donovan
My car club is planning to participate when they reach the east coast.
More details! MORE DETAILS!
It has been quite some time since I broke-in my ’03 S. But in addition to limited RPMs, aren’t you supposed to also break-in under varying driving conditions? Is this realistic with this cross country salute?
Is the caravan coming down to Miami? I wish….
I’m not decided weather or not to pick up my GP in Cal. or not. Thats over 3000 mi trip for me. But wouldn’t it be kind of neat to have a really nice grill badge for the people that did make the trip? I’m talking about a real nice design in a cast steel version, no plastic crap. Now that would be a great momento!
You know, here in the upper mid-west we never get to see any of this stuff. The closest this is coming to us in Minneapolis MN is what, St. Louis? It’s shame that I don’t have the time and money available to join up for part of this event as it looks like there will be some fun and good times. four years ago I would’ve made the time, but life has changed that ability…
We live here in Monterey. A cross country trip would be great, but like so many others we cant get away for that long. We’ll definitely be doing the trip to Santa Barbara and back though. Might even take the kids along.
Am I looking in the wrong place, or has the Mini Takes the States announcement disappeared off the MINI USA website?
<a href="http://www.minitakesthestates.com" rel="nofollow ugc">http://www.minitakesthestates.com</a>
I hope to make the Dallas to Memphis trip. That Monday might have to be a “sick” day.
Ashley