2002 BMW CS1 Concept

The world debut of the CS1 Concept Car offers the public all over the world a first glimpse of the design philosophy which might characterise the exterior of a small BMW in future. The study takes up classical values and striking design cues from the 2001 X Coupe Concept. The CS1 looks forward, reflecting the future-oriented lifestyle of its generation even while reviving an important element of BMW history, the tradition of small, sporting cars such as the BMW 2002.

The futuristic interior of the CS1 Concept Car points even further into the future, while nevertheless still focusing on the philosophy of agility and youthful elegance. Both the design and the choice of materials emanate a flair of optimism, joy of life and spontaneity characteristic of a new generation enjoying life and expressing this joy through their lifestyle.

Elements providing a load-bearing function within the interior demonstrate their purpose through the use of matt aluminium. The interior structure, the cockpit bracket, and the load-bearing side profiles of the centre tunnel are all clearly visible along the two main axes. At the same time smaller details such as the neckrest supports, the door handles, belt latches and the gearshift lever underline the stability of the entire structure and their own specific function.

The CS1 Concept Car continues BMW’s new interior and control philosophy using iDrive for perfect driver orientation. This advanced system allows the driver to concentrate on the essential, the actual act of motoring, while operating just a few buttons comfortably and safely to control the various functions of a modern car such as the CS1. The central control unit, the Controller, is therefore fitted precisely where the driver would place his hand instinctively – on the centre console, behind the gearshift lever – without any kind of obstruction.

Functions required frequently and at short notice are operated by a handful of conventional buttons. Pressing the air conditioning button, for example, is sufficient to move the air conditioning control unit out of the cockpit from beneath – so that now the driver can immediately set the interior temperature or the power of the fan. iDrive thus offers appropriate, on-demand access to the functions and information required at any time.

The CS1 Concept provides us with a risky and elegant design that really takes BMW styling a step further. The car offers a clean overall look combined with subtle, complex elements . The Interior functions have been well thought out. The decor focuses on flame surfacing and flowing design elements thanks to the simpliciy of iDrive controls.

The CS1 proves BMW is willing to risk their image to make a controversial car. Like the X-Coupe concept, the CS1 steps into new terrority and offers us a car which truly looks unique.

In Detail

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