In a remarkable collaboration blending automotive lifestyle and high fashion, BMW Austria and internationally acclaimed fashion house ELIE SAAB have created an exclusive, custom-designed MINI Cooper S for charity. This bespoke vehicle will be auctioned at the inaugural amfAR Gala in Salzburg on August 24, marking the event’s debut in Austria and celebrating the powerful alliance between design excellence and global philanthropy.
“I believe in the power of valuable collaborations that unite creativity with purpose,” said Elie Saab. “For this special occasion, we partnered with MINI to create a unique piece that reflects both artistic vision and shared values. This creation was imagined as a tribute to the inspiring work of amfAR—an organization whose dedication has made a profound impact globally.”
The result is a MINI unlike any other: a moving sculpture wrapped in a cascading metallic
gradient that flows from liquid copper to soft bronze and nude tones, reflecting ELIE SAAB’s deep connection to light, texture, and the passage of time.
In a nod to timeless automotive elegance, the interior is adorned with rich brown
leather, quilted with the ELIE SAAB monogram—a refined testament to personalized
craftsmanship and enduring brand heritage. The sensory journey continues with an
olfactory experience featuring the ELIE SAAB signature scent, GOLDEN, crafted in
collaboration with CULTI MILANO. This exquisite fragrance blends sparkling notes of
bitter orange with warm cedarwood, perfectly echoing the sophistication and allure of
the design.
“We are honored to realize this project together with ELIE SAAB and MINI,” said
Alexander Bamberger, CEO of BMW Austria. “Both brands carry a rich heritage of
distinctive design, inventive spirit, and a unique character attached to every model.
Automotive design, like fashion, is defined by emotion, precision, and innovation. This one-off creation represents more than luxury — it is a call to action and a celebration of
craftsmanship with purpose.”