The Brazilian Tritec Engine factory has closed it’s doors after producing their last engine for the MINI Convertible, reports Just-Auto.com (subscription required).

Tritec Motors was launched as a joint venture between BMW and Chrysler in 1996 with an investment of $484,000,000 (USD) to supply 1.4 and 1.6 litre petrol engines to both companies, and all the first generation MINI petrol engines were produced at the Brazilian plant, including those fitted to the continuing MINI Convertible model.

The Tritec power plant, while arguably relatively inefficient and heavy by standards of Today, had been highly regarded during it’s production cycle.  The Supercharged derivative which powered the first generation MINI Cooper S was crowned International Engine of the Year in 2003.

So the question (already raised on the MINI2 forums) is “What about the Convertibles?!”.   We’ve asked MINI, and are awaiting an official response to the supply situation, but we’re sure this has been thought through in advance.