BMW Builds GINA, a Shape-Shifting Concept Car

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Chris

By Chris V. Thangham

Jun 11, 2008 in Technology

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By Chris V. Thangham.

BMW has designed a concept car that changes shapes with cloth that covers a movable metal frame structure. The cloth structure is flexible, durable and water-resistant.

The car, nicknamed “GINA,” an acronym for Geometry and functions In 'N' Adaptions, was unveiled today by BMW. BMW's research group built this car more than six years ago.

Instead of a rigid metal structure, researchers at BMW wanted a car that will change its shape whenever a driver wants a new look. They achieved it with a body of seamless fabric covering a movable metal frame. With the switch controls, the driver can change the shape of the car as shown in the video attached to this article.

Chris Bangle, head of design for BMW told Motor Trend that GINA allowed his team to "challenge existing principles and conventional processes."

Though GINA looks radical, it unfortunately won’t be available for the public; it will be moved to the BMW Museum in Munich. The main purpose for BMW in showcasing GINA is to spur creativity and research into new directions.

Photo courtesy BMW

BMW's GINA Concept Car

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GINA is built on a Z8 chassis and has a 4.4 liter V8, with a six-speed automatic transmission. The cloth used is polyurethane coated Lycra, which is resilient, durable and water-resistant.

Photo courtesy BMW

BMW's GINA Concept Car

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The fabric covers the entire aluminum frame and by means of electric and hydraulic actuators positioned in the vehicle, the driver can change the body shape. BMW says the body can be changed without stretching or damaging the fabric.

GINA has just four panels - the front hood, two sides and the rear deck. The doors open in jack-knife fashion and are completely smooth when closed; access to the engine is through a slit in the hood.

Regarding safety of the car, BMW says GINA is built on a space frame and meets the safety standards of conventional cars.