New BMW i-models Are Easily Recognizable

Hofmeisterknik Makes the BMW i-Models Distinctive

By Henny Hemmes
Senior European Editor
The Auto Channel

MUNICH, February 21, 2011. Contrary to what we previously expected, based on statements in the context of Project I, the new BMW i is not a division, but a sub-brand of BMW. It is not a sister of M GmbH, that is a separate subsidiary of the BMW Group AG. The M versions are based on standard BW models, while the new i-cars are specifically developed for the use of electric or plug-in electric drivelines. BMW i should be regarded as a separate business unit within BMW, with its own design team, headed by Benoit Jacob, who reports to Adrian van Hooydonk, Vice President of the Group for design, and with its own team of engineers headed by Project-i project leader Ulrich Kranz.

During the presentation of the logo that will mark the new cars, Van Hooydonk said that they will be recognizable as BMWs by the ‘kidneys’ that also mark the ordinary models. But since the i-models doe not need to have air intakes for cooling, their kidneys will have closed surfaces with a blue rim around them.

The i-logo has been designed by the German studio of DesignworksUSA, part of the BMW Group and acting as a consultant, not exclusive to BMW or the other brands, but also for external customers.

Van Hooydonk: “The letter I is the smallest letter of the alphabet, but by changing the angle and making it transparent it looks bigger and also demonstrates the transparency and openness of the new sub-brand.

Also the propeller logo will have a blue rim, as well as the tail lamps.

According to the design chief, the i-models distinguish themselves with the two sharp lines at the side of the cars that run to from above and below the side windows to the back, where they taper in each other's direction. They are called stream flow, and eliminate the C-styles with the well known Hofmeisterknik, that is distinctive for the BMW models.

“The stream flow demonstrates the lightness of the car and the aerodynamic advantages, which are extremely important with respect to the driving range,.” Van Hooydonk said. Furthermore, the two upcoming models will have ‘huge’ wheels. Although the design chief was not specific, he later answered affirmative upon our suggestion that they may be 20- or 21-inches . This is also for the benefit of the aerodynamics of the car and will make the models stand out.”