2002 BMW CS1 Concept
Compact Concept
The CS1 is
not simply a shrink-to-fit version of any other BMW model, but has its own
unique look. In the future, each BMW model series will have a clear identity,
which sets it apart from other cars in the line-up, while still retaining design
features which make it instantly recognisable as a BMW.
Making use of modern, lightweight materials like neoprene and matt-finished
aluminium, the interior of the CS1 is a completely new take on the car interior.
Self-supporting surfaces appear to float in the cabin, giving a feeling of space
and light. Fine aluminium structures, covered with neoprene (the material used
to make wet suits), form part of the cabin structures. A central spine runs down
the middle of the car, dividing front and rear seats and at the front 'wings'
branch off it under the dashboard.
First seen on the new BMW 7 Series, iDrive is an ergonomic design philosophy
which dramatically simplifies the car’s control systems. The primary controls
needed to drive the car are all within a finger’s reach of the steering wheel
and the major secondary controls are on the dashboard. The remainder are all
operated using the large circular knob, positioned just behind the gear selector
on the centre console, called the Controller. By pressing once on the
Controller, the driver of the CS1 activates the system and a display screen
rises into view, out of the aluminium dashboard.
Paddles mounted on the steering wheel are used to change gear via BMW’s SSG
(Sequential Sports Gearbox) as available for the 3 Series Coupe. The clutch is
operated electromagnetically, so there is no clutch pedal. Gearshifts take a
fraction of a second. In slow city traffic the driver can choose the
self-selecting mode, which allows the system to select the correct gear
automatically.
German Supercars - BMW - Audi - Porsche -
©2002