In 2001, BMW took an innovative approach to automotive design by introducing a boldly styled concept called the X Coupe. Christopher E. Bangle, head of design at BMW, then proposed a whole new 'Flame Surfacing' language which redefined how BMWs were designed. It's now used for every model in the lineup.
'Flame Surfacing' comes from the GINA philosophy (Geometry and functions in ''N'' Adaptations). Basically, it's a totally unbridled vision for car design. The team of Mr. Bangle is seeking to reinvent the automobile as we know it. They strive to push the limits of styling by going well beyond conventional thinking. They want the auto industry to progress at a faster pace.
They question everything about a car's design. What are the alternatives? Does the roof necessarily have to rest on pillars which are surrounded by windows? You know, that sort of questions.
Several creations in today's lineup come straight from the GINA philosophy. Such is the case of the iDrive multimedia interface, originally introduced on the BMW Z9 Concept. Initially, designers aimed to create a system that would provide the driver with only vital data. What they've come up with is an innovative technology that everyone is talking about -- good or bad.
A new idea: GINA Light Visionary Model
The latest work from the BMW design studio is called "Light Visionary Model". It's essentially a styling exercise intended to push the limits of creativeness. The result takes the form of a small roadster with sleek, Z4-like body lines.
Both inside and out, the car sports a variety of unorthodox features. It's shelled in a textile fabric wrapped around a carbon fiber and metal frame. This mobile structure can adapt to the driver by bending and changing shapes. For instance, the headlights can be open or shut, like eyeballs under eyelids. Likewise, the interior only displays what the driver needs. Textile fabric covers the dashboard and components, making way for the appropriate instruments when necessary.
Obviously, you won't find such a vehicle on the road anytime soon, but this styling exercise allowed BMW designers to use their imagination to the fullest... with unprecedented results!
photo:BMW
'Flame Surfacing' comes from the GINA philosophy (Geometry and functions in ''N'' Adaptations). Basically, it's a totally unbridled vision for car design. The team of Mr. Bangle is seeking to reinvent the automobile as we know it. They strive to push the limits of styling by going well beyond conventional thinking. They want the auto industry to progress at a faster pace.
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They question everything about a car's design. What are the alternatives? Does the roof necessarily have to rest on pillars which are surrounded by windows? You know, that sort of questions.
Several creations in today's lineup come straight from the GINA philosophy. Such is the case of the iDrive multimedia interface, originally introduced on the BMW Z9 Concept. Initially, designers aimed to create a system that would provide the driver with only vital data. What they've come up with is an innovative technology that everyone is talking about -- good or bad.
A new idea: GINA Light Visionary Model
The latest work from the BMW design studio is called "Light Visionary Model". It's essentially a styling exercise intended to push the limits of creativeness. The result takes the form of a small roadster with sleek, Z4-like body lines.
Both inside and out, the car sports a variety of unorthodox features. It's shelled in a textile fabric wrapped around a carbon fiber and metal frame. This mobile structure can adapt to the driver by bending and changing shapes. For instance, the headlights can be open or shut, like eyeballs under eyelids. Likewise, the interior only displays what the driver needs. Textile fabric covers the dashboard and components, making way for the appropriate instruments when necessary.
Obviously, you won't find such a vehicle on the road anytime soon, but this styling exercise allowed BMW designers to use their imagination to the fullest... with unprecedented results!
photo:BMW
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