BMW recently unveiled its M1 Homage Concept Car in Italy and now the German auto maker is garnering even more attention with its Munich exhibit of the GINA Light Visionary Model. This time around though, BMW is dubbing the GINA as “a whole new approach to automotive design,” not just another concept car. With a highly durable fabric cover and aluminum sub-frame, the exterior can actually be contoured to the driver’s personal preference! Standard body parts give way to only four units – a front body panel that leads all the way to the windshield, two sides, and a rear deck section. The GINA employs a front-mounted eight-cylinder engine and rear drive base.
Other distinctive characterists include hidden headlights that, when activated, are revealed as the fabric is moved out of the way slightly. When travelling at high speeds, the rear deck allows a spoiler to rise and the side panels adjust to allow air intakes more or less wind. Unique indeed! The skin allows enough light through to make the tail-lights visible when powered on.
Interior innovations include a verticle-mounted steering column that falls into place after the driver has entered the vehicle, thus making the transition in and out much easier. The same fabric skin from the exterior runs from the rear deck lid over the rear sets as well as the doors and center console.
Can a production version be expected anytime soon? While it may not be reasonable to anticipate this car at your local BMW dealership, essential building blocks may find their way into production quicker than you might expect!
