Perfect Fit

Finally something you want to see in spandex.

BMW’s design team, headed by Chris Bangle, set out to build a concept vehicle that would push the envelope of form and function. GINA Light Visionary Model breaks the chains of conventional principles and processes. GINA, which stands for “Geometry and functions In ‘N’ Adaptations”, bears body lines that look similar to other BMW styles, but the body of this concept car is completely made of fabric; polyurethane-coated Lycra to be exact.

GINA’s flexible, water- and temperature-resistant fabric stretches over a moveable frame governed by motors and hydraulic actuators, so the vehicle can change shape depending on driver input, exterior conditions and speeds. An aluminum wire structure gives the car its basic shape, and carbon fiber struts are employed where movement is needed. Limiting any potential costly fender-bender repairs, the seamless fabric exterior, which stretches and slackens without damage, is impossible to bend out of shape.

Only four panels comprise the GINA: the hood, two side panels and the rear deck. A rear spoiler extends upward while the vehicle is in motion to create increased down-force, resulting in higher driving speeds. The headlamps, shrouded by the fabric skin, shine through the translucent overlay when needed at night.

Accessing the engine bay would make any automobile enthusiast blush, since the fabric parts from the center in a fashion reminiscent of female anatomy. Doors swing out and up revealing the GINA’s passenger cabin, while the instrument cluster, steering wheel and headrest engage upon engine start.

The GINA is a bold direction in design and consumers should expect to see many of her unique elements in future BMW models. As for purchasing the car, don’t count on running to the showroom to check out color swatches anytime soon. GINA is a concept car and BMW has no plans for mass production; currently she is headed for a life on display at the BMW Museum in Munich.