Press release
Source: BMW
So far most of the lights within the car have been central light sources focusing light above all in the middle of the passenger compartment. The outside areas of the passenger compartment are hardly illuminated, there is hardly any impression of space and surfaces generated by indirect, more gentle light. “Light” is therefore seen in this context only as a function.
For the BMW Group this is not enough. Some time ago, therefore, BMW decided to give the interior of the car a new and more distinctive look – a look created specifi cally and, indeed, exclusively by light. The objective is to move beyond the conventional light scenario described above and instead to create special, harmonious light effects within the interior even enhancing specific situations – light effects clearly accentuating the character of the respective vehicle.
This turns light into a conscious instrument of design providing even better support in motoring and highlighting individual materials, trim, and surfaces. Light therefore underlines the character of the car and provides an even more emotional driving experience.
To reach this objective, BMW Group researchers and development engineers are conducting thorough research and studies with all the tools and instruments available for this purpose. Starting with the analysis of suitable light sources through tests on the appearance of materials under various light conditions, all the way to the most advanced virtual tools, the research engineers are using all kinds of methods and concepts. Finally, specimens show how the overall use and presentation of light “shapes” the car in the real world, test drives during the day and at night proving that the efforts made are paying off.
photo: BMW
Source: BMW
So far most of the lights within the car have been central light sources focusing light above all in the middle of the passenger compartment. The outside areas of the passenger compartment are hardly illuminated, there is hardly any impression of space and surfaces generated by indirect, more gentle light. “Light” is therefore seen in this context only as a function.
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| Light design - Tests on the appearance of materials under various light conditions |
For the BMW Group this is not enough. Some time ago, therefore, BMW decided to give the interior of the car a new and more distinctive look – a look created specifi cally and, indeed, exclusively by light. The objective is to move beyond the conventional light scenario described above and instead to create special, harmonious light effects within the interior even enhancing specific situations – light effects clearly accentuating the character of the respective vehicle.
This turns light into a conscious instrument of design providing even better support in motoring and highlighting individual materials, trim, and surfaces. Light therefore underlines the character of the car and provides an even more emotional driving experience.
To reach this objective, BMW Group researchers and development engineers are conducting thorough research and studies with all the tools and instruments available for this purpose. Starting with the analysis of suitable light sources through tests on the appearance of materials under various light conditions, all the way to the most advanced virtual tools, the research engineers are using all kinds of methods and concepts. Finally, specimens show how the overall use and presentation of light “shapes” the car in the real world, test drives during the day and at night proving that the efforts made are paying off.
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| Light design - Welcome scenario in the BMW 1 series prototype |
photo: BMW