Case Study

BMW

Material ConneXion helps powerhouse automaker BMW design a lightweight concept car with a flexible shell.

Former BMW Design Director Chris Bangle wanted to pursue his idea of creating a fabric-skinned car. After seeing a  temporary exhibition about flexible skin architecture at Material ConneXion, Bangle was inspired to pursue the concept, and started researching high-strength and tear-resistant textiles with our team of experts. Their effort led to the GINA (Geometry and Function in “N” Adaptations) – a visionary shape-shifting sports car made from polyurethane-coated Lycra stretched over a wire-aluminum frame.

While only a concept car, the GINA’s innovative design is inspiring a new wave of sleek, lightweight and fuel-efficient automobiles.