BMW.com : BMW Design : Design visions

FUTURISTIC FORMS
THAT MOVE.

Although its very own history is an indispensable part of BMW Design, it is only one element in the development of new solutions for the future of mobility. This is because what is also needed is the opportunity to think freely and creatively as well as the constant desire to create true innovations. In this way BMW Design is forever reinventing itself without forgetting its own roots. And in this process, it is always necessary to be one step ahead of the times, in terms of both technology and design.

The result is seen in leading technology and engaging aesthetics of BMW concept vehicles. This results in a combination of innovative technology and pioneering design: BMW concept vehicles.They let tomorrow’s mobility take shape today and serve as an inspiration and source of stimuli for the models to follow. And so it is true of many BMW concept studies that yesterday they were still a vision but today are already a natural part of the series production BMW automobiles.

BMW VISION CONNECTED DRIVE. NEW OPPORTUNITIES – IMPLEMENTED RIGHT.

The design of this emotional roadster embodies the fundamental ideas of BMW ConnectedDrive: the intelligent linking of driver, vehicle and the outside world. Everything is interconnected.

Human centered design played a definitive role in the creation of the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive. The entire vehicle and its functions have been designed around the needs of driver and passenger. This is particularly apparent in the interior. It is divided into three different sections, known as layers. Each layer symbolises a theme from BMW ConnectedDrive – comfort, infotainment, safety – and integrates appropriate functions, controls and displays.

In addition to the geometry, different coloured fibre optics mark this formal classification, making technologies visible that the driver during the journey or provide greater safety.

BMW VISION EFFICIENT DYNAMICS. EFFICIENCY IN AN EXCITING DESIGN.

This super sports car opens up a fascinating and emotional view into the future of sheer driving pleasure. Its design reflects the light weight construction and optimised aerodynamics of the vehicle, which in combination are responsible for its outstanding efficiency.

The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time shows a new approach to the design of a vehicle, so-called “layering”. Here joints and hard surface transitions are active design elements, assuming functions and thus enabling a weight-saving reduction of components. One example can be seen in the aerodynamic rear lights of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics. And in the interior too, which appears to almost hover, individual features carry out several functions. The central air vents, for example, are not only intended to increase comfort but are at the same time part of the cockpit support. This completely new way of dealing with surfaces, joints and materials leads to modern and organic aesthetics for both the exterior and interior, creating an effect of lightness and emotion.

BMW i3 CONCEPT. COMPACT, AGILE, SUSTAINABLE.

BMW i stands for a new understanding of premium mobility, systematically directed towards sustainability. The design of the BMW i3 Concept allows this to be experienced: large transparent surfaces, the use of renewable raw materials, a stable stance and aerodynamically optimised thrust faces, trailing edges and permeated elements convey sustainability, lightness and driving pleasure. The distinctive “Stream Flow” – the C pillar area with its novel design – has a similar recognition value to the Hofmeister kink so typical of BMW.

The proportions of the vehicle are both functional and dynamic, allowing a diverse range of options for use of the interior. The passenger compartment made of CFRP, the so-called Life module, opens up completely new possibilities for interior design: behind the opposing “coach” doors is a generous interior with full-width seat benches and a flat floor without centre tunnel. The reduced design of the instrument panel signals lightness, the visible use of renewable raw materials displays the special focus of BMW i on sustainability. In addition, special connectivity functions incorporate the BMW i3 Concept into the digital lifestyle of its driver.

BMW i8 CONCEPT. SUSTAINABLE SPORTS CAR FOR THE FUTURE.

The BMW i8 Concept embodies the vision of a sustainable sports car that has now become reality with an innovative drive concept. Its sweeping lines and the very flat silhouette lend it an extremely dynamic appearance even when standing still. The swing doors attached to the A pillar open upwards and underline its sporting character.

The interior of the BMW i8 is geared towards its driver, who can then become fully immersed in the experience behind the wheel. All information and controls are also directed towards the driver and are therefore ideally accessible. At the same time the clear shapes of the instrument panel create an attractive contrast to the dynamically flowing exterior, lending the interior a special lightness and dynamic character. The arrangement of the air outlets, operating panels and displays, with its similarity to the BMW i3 Concept, indicates the common family background of the two vehicles.

BMW M1 HOMMAGE. TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND.

The BMW M1 of 1978 is regarded as the super sports car of its time – low-lying, broad and powerful. In the shape of the BMW M1 Hommage this exceptional part of the rich BMW Design tradition is celebrated and combined with elements of the future in design. It displays the same, flat and aerodynamically advantageous proportions as the model that provided its inspiration. Precise lines define the vehicle, increasing in speed as they approach the rear-end. In the engine section, where the vehicle’s heart beats, the result is an especially sculptural impression.

The rear view of the BMW M1 Hommage wins over the beholder, as would be expected from a mid-engined sports car. In particular, the powerfully shaped shoulder and the strong three-dimensional rear-end section underline its sporting heritage. And as the BMW M1 used to in its time, the two rear wings of the BMW M1 Hommage each have a small BMW logo. A feature that remains unique up to the present day.

BMW GINA LIGHT VISIONARY MODEL. NEW THINKING AND CREATIVE FREEDOM.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model is a vision of the future and a research object at the same time. The acronym GINA stands for “Geometry and functions In ‘N’ Adaptations”. It is a symbol of challenging and consciously breaking through as many conventions of automobile construction as possible. After all, this is how creative space for pioneering innovations is produced.

It includes an almost seamless, flexible outer skin, which is stretched over a moveable frame. This enables the vehicle to adapt to the specific driving conditions. Individual functions are only released when the driver needs them. At high speeds, for example, a spoiler forms from the rear-end section.

In the interior too, the seat does not assume its final position and contours until the driver is in position, with steering wheel and instrument unit moving into place accordingly. The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model thus ensures true interaction between driver and vehicles.