Earlier than BMW acquired Rolls-Royce in 1998, the corporate had their very own plans and aspirations for an ultra-luxury line above the 7 Sequence flagship. In Steve Saxty’s third e-book, “BMW Artwork by Design” he explores a design idea known as “ZBF 7 Sequence,” brief for “Zukunftige BMW Familie.” The essential level right here is that the idea wasn’t devised as a direct proposal for the upcoming E65 7 Sequence; relatively, it was crafted previous to the venture as a visionary exploration geared toward forecasting the long run path for the whole BMW lineup.
Amid this artistic exploration, one design stood out for its audacious reinterpretation of luxurious and presence — Joji Nagashima’s ZBF 7 Sequence. Nagashima’s idea defied standard design norms with an imposingly massive grille set earlier than a succinct hood, a deliberate alternative to reinforce passenger house. The inside was a departure from custom, showcasing a radically contemporary fashion that positioned the ZBF 7 Sequence not simply as a successor to its predecessors however as a harbinger of a futuristic 9 Sequence.
This groundbreaking design was dropped at life as a non-running mannequin, encapsulating Nagashima’s daring imaginative and prescient for a next-generation 7 Sequence that transcended the acquainted bounds of luxurious sedans. The venture’s ambition didn’t finish there; in 1996, a second automobile materialized right into a working prototype. This prototype captured the creativeness of BMW’s R&D boss, Wolfgang Reitzle, to such an extent that he expressed a need to take this prototype for a spin to his golf membership.
A Huge Kidney Grille
Regardless of that includes the long-lasting spherical headlamps that later emerged as a trademark of BMW design, the idea distinguishes itself with two inside lamps of noticeably larger measurement. Paired with a large, outstanding grille—accentuated by a V12 badge—this design aspect bestows upon the ZBF the distinguished air of a traditional luxurious sedan, harking back to a Rolls-Royce, nicely earlier than the BMW’s acquisition of the high-end luxurious model.
Probably the most fascinating function is undoubtedly the massive kidney grille that extends downward, reminding us of the G80/G82 BMW M3 and M4, alongside the all-electric i4 and iX. Whether or not the corporate foresaw this grille in manufacturing fashions twenty-five years into the long run stays uncertain. Nevertheless, this serves as proof that the most recent design traits are usually not as novel as they could appear.
“BMW by Design” Books
Through the years, “The ZBF” transcended its preliminary function, changing into a revered reference level and a supply of inspiration throughout the BMW design studio. In a testomony to its enduring legacy, “The ZBF” discovered a brand new dwelling in 2020 throughout the hallowed halls of BMW Traditional and you’ll see it within the video beneath. If you happen to’re concerned about studying extra BMW design behind-the-scenes tales, then the “BMW by Design” three-volume boxed set can be obtainable quickly – at a pre-order value of $299.95/€270/£78.11. Alternatively, the principal e-book, “BMW by Design” is out there instantly for $99.95/€90.02/£88.10; all with free delivery in USA, UK and EU.
[Images: BMW Group Classic]
