What will the year 2040 look like? You are about to find out!!
When it comes to sustainability, the BMW i Vision Circular, an electric compact car, embodies it fully. It is also the design of years to come! Add to its sustainability all-out luxury, and the future never looked so good! The new i Vision Circular boasts circular economy principles that result in unmatched sustainability through and through (even its battery is recyclable!!) And, through the complete use of recycled materials alongside bio-based raw materials, BMW brings forth the highest standard of progressive design. With an all-new interior, featuring a stunning crystal interface, and a body rooted in recycled aluminum and steel, the i Vision Circular is a true work of art. This concept sets the stage for BMW design standards for years to come!
Unique exterior
Beginning with the absence of paint and exterior badges and constructed with as little material as possible, there is much to notice when it comes to the uniqueness of the BMW i Vision Circular’s exterior. It features aluminum bodywork that is anodized which transforms into a deep blue color at the heat-treated steel rear ends as well as a sharply sloping windshield that runs almost straight down to the proportionately massive kidney grille. This results in a true futuristic appearance! The vehicle’s windshield is the instrument cluster and the rear glass is the taillamp and turn signals. The exterior is also marked by window surrounds which are strips of digital screens that are touch sensitive to enable entry.
Components of the exterior are pared down to a minimum and are easily removable to allow for future recycling. Each door contains a single integrated electronic module that is both a window switch and motor. The concept sits on tires which feature a slight blue tint and are composed of sustainably cultivated natural rubber.
Amazing interior
Modern, light and supremely sustainable, this interior has it all. From calming colors and a true modern feel to a 3-D printed steering wheel and lovely crystal interface and emphasis on organic structures, the interior of this four-seat concept is awe-inspiring to say the least. Long gone is the traditional center console, replaced by the crystal interface, with an emphasis on unique lighting and innovation and luxury. The interior design is driven by low impact construction as well as a keen effort to reduce components, materials and finishes. The result instead is renewable raw materials, including luxurious wood in what is a very spacious cabin. Its roominess is thanks to the concept’s electric powertrain and one-box, pod-style profile.
Floor and door panels are presented in a light and soft mint green, and the seats are ultra luxurious in a light violet recycled fabric. Accents within are finished in the same gold-bronze as the car’s exterior. A glass roof results in an open and airy cabin, with front seats that are presented more in the form of lounge chairs. At rear is bench seating.
Information location
Displays are reimagined with this concept, with drivers find their necessary information on the head-up display, which essentially stretches across the entire width of the bottom of the windshield. A 3-D print is found on the steering wheel as well and features a unique, central spoke and two touchpads with the same crystal appearance. Rear seats boast a dedicated sound zone, which allows passengers to choose music selections of their liking. There is also a lamp inside which is the reused class iDrive controller from the BMW iX.
Circular economy
In approaching this concept, BMW is aiming at reducing CO2 emission throughout the vehicle’s entire life cycle. And in addition to electrifying their portfolio, they are switching to renewable energy and focusing specifically on circular noncom principles and the use of secondary materials. These materials can be reused and the process itself is less harmful to the environment.
It’s all about re-thinking, reducing and reusing, resulting in a sustainable product with an extremely long life span.
Coming to fruition
While the i Vision Circular is not planned for anytime soon, as 2040 seems light years away, BMW’s approach outlined by the concept will not only help increase the amount of recycled and reused materials in each of their vehicles from 30 to 50 percent but guide the development of like vehicles. BMW essentially questioned the status quo when creating this concept then found its vision for a truly sustainable future.
A completely rethought concept in all aspects, embracing a minimalist approach that not only supports the environment but makes it better, the iVision Circular has taken beautiful shape. Eye catching and future focused — sustainability meets simplicity and thought takes shape. Coming full circle — what a concept!
