BMW vision root coupe concept channels 2002 turbo heritage in electric sport design

BMW Vision Root Coupe fuses retro design with modern details

Designer Li Ding merges retro design with the innovation of modern electric sports coupes in his BMW Vision Root Coupe project. Drawing inspiration from the iconic BMW 2002 Turbo, this concept car demonstrates that new designs can honor the past. A key design element is the headlamp of the classic 2002 race car, known for its distinctive X-shaped tape. This motif is reimagined as the main Daytime Running Lamp graphic, giving the vehicle a recognizable identity. The traditional BMW double kidney grille is also refined into two sleek vertical lines, presenting a clean and modern front end. Below the grille, a wide air flap echoes the original design, framed by a staple-shaped outer panel that transitions into the bodyside.

all images courtesy of Li Ding

Li Ding imagines a vehicle characterized by pure geometry

The bodyside of the BMW Vision Root Coupe by Li Ding embodies the sports coupe profile, featuring a long hood, a dash-to-axle ratio, and a compact cabin. Its pure and powerful section is enhanced by fenders pushed to their limits, achieving a coke-bottle shape. As the surface flows towards the rear, it mirrors the staple shape of the front end of the car, encapsulating rectangular taillights and double vertical lower brake lights that reflect the front’s kidney grille design. The California-based designer’s concept features a form language characterized by pure geometry, paying homage to the past while infusing the design with contemporary details.

BMW Vision Root Coupe demonstrates that new designs can honor the past

a key design element is the headlamp of the classic 2002 race car, known for its distinctive X-shaped tape

the traditional BMW double kidney grille is also refined into two sleek vertical lines

strong and powerful 5 spoke aero performance wheel

ducktail spoiler on top of the tailgate

LiDAR and camera module.

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direction B ideation sketches

wide double kidney grill combined with daytime running light as strip graphics

design inspiration and direction A, from current BMW concept car

design inspiration and direction B, which draws visual elements from classic BMW 2002 turbo

project info:

name: BMW Vision Root Coupe
designer: Li Ding | @liding.design

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom