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 referred to as “ZBF 7 Sequence,” quick 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; fairly, it was crafted previous to the mission as a visionary exploration aimed toward forecasting the longer term route for the complete 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 typical design norms with an imposingly giant grille set earlier than a succinct hood, a deliberate alternative to reinforce passenger house. The inside was a departure from custom, showcasing a radically recent model 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 mission’s ambition didn’t finish there; in 1996, a second automobile materialized right into a operating prototype. This prototype captured the creativeness of BMW’s R&D boss, Wolfgang Reitzle, to such an extent that he expressed a want to take this prototype for a spin to his golf membership.

A Large Kidney Grille

Regardless of that includes the enduring spherical headlamps that later emerged as an indicator of BMW design, the idea distinguishes itself with two internal lamps of noticeably higher dimension. Paired with an enormous, distinguished grille—accentuated by a V12 badge—this design ingredient bestows upon the ZBF the distinguished air of a traditional luxurious sedan, harking back to a Rolls-Royce, effectively earlier than the BMW’s acquisition of the high-end luxurious model.

Probably the most charming function is undoubtedly the large 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 longer term stays uncertain. Nevertheless, this serves as proof that the most recent design traits should not as novel as they could appear.

“BMW by Design” Books

Through the years, “The ZBF” transcended its preliminary position, turning into a revered reference level and a supply of inspiration inside the BMW design studio. In a testomony to its enduring legacy, “The ZBF” discovered a brand new dwelling in 2020 inside the hallowed halls of BMW Traditional and you may see it within the video under. When you’re fascinated by studying extra BMW design behind-the-scenes tales, then the “BMW by Design” three-volume boxed set can be out there 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]