Mini and Kiss team up for charity.
It’s only rock n’ roll but, apparently, Mini likes it. The BMW microcar brand invited the over-the-top rock band Kiss to share the stage at the 2011 New York Auto Show, announcing a series of Kiss-inspired Mini designs – and launching a charity program teaming with UNICEF to help children around the world – especially those affected by the March 11 disaster in Japan.
The maker had been hinting there’d be some big news at its booth, but few expects all four Kiss band members to show up in full make-up and regalia – as did the brand’s U.S. CEO Jim McDowell.
The one thing missing from the executive’s tribute costume was the trademark Kiss platform shoes. That made the diminutive McDowell craning his neck up at Kiss leader Gene Simmons.
“I feel a little short,” said Mini’s boss. “Maybe that’s why I’m not in a rock band. I work for a brand called Mini.”
Four Kiss-inspired vehicles, each representing the face of one of the band members, was on stage for the unveiling. Bearing the band’s signatures, they will be auctioned off on Father’s Day, May 29 — the proceeds of the eBay auction going to support the new charity.
“Our hearts go out to the people of Japan in this time of great tragedy. We wanted to help and also to provide a real way for the KISS Army to get involved,” said the wild child Simmons. “UNICEF raises money to help children who are still coping with the effects of these disasters, and also supports other very important emergency relief efforts around the world. Join the KISS Army in giving.”
Mini will also produce Kiss “wraps” for its line-up, those proceeds also going to the new charity.