The BMW GINA concept model

BMW has revealed a preview of the future, with the design of the new GINA Light Visionary concept car. The car’s new name stands for “Geometry and Functions In “N” Adaptions.”

The GINA has an exterior which is an almost seamless outer textile skin, that stretches right across a movable metal structure. The car’s whole body is a single uninterrupted unit.

The GINA was made from a special fabric which is supported by a metal wire structure. This allows the model to get rid of the usual body panels, such as the doors, bonnet, etc. The new material has high-strength metal, which is enhanced by carbon struts, which have a higher flexibility. The frame has been designed to support the aspects of crash-safety, stiffness and ride handling.

The driver will be able to move parts of the substructure by means of electro-hydraulic controls. This can change the shape of the outer skin, which can be adapted to suit the current situation. The headlights are a prime example, when they are not in use they are hidden, but when they need to be used the special fabric cover changes the front end of the car.

BMW has a unique way of revealing its future technologies by the means of eccentric concept models. The new GINA model could one day make it to the production line, but for now, it is strictly a research model.

More pictures and a video after the break..