Following the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Vision Vehicles, the BMW
Group has now revealed its next progressive solution, this time for
the world of motorcycling: the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100. It was
unveiled on 11 October at the “Iconic Impulses. The BMW Group Future
Experience” exhibition in Los Angeles.
The Great Escape
“The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 embodies the BMW Group’s vision of
biking in a connected world – an analogue experience in a digital age.
Motorcycling is about escaping from the everyday: the moment you
straddle your bike, you are absolutely free. Your bike is The Great
Escape,” says Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design at BMW Motorrad,
outlining the core principles underlying his brand’s Vision Vehicle.
The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 stands for the ultimate riding
experience. Liberated from the need to wear a helmet and protective
clothing, the rider is able to enjoy the forces. Acceleration, wind
and nature as in touch with the surrounding world, savouring every
moment. The design of the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 represents the
essence of the motorcycle: the perfect synthesis between human and
machine. Every detail is of the highest quality and the design
incorporates all the most striking visual aspects of BMW Motorrad
bikes across the ages. These elements, however, have a contemporary
twist, both visually and in terms of function.
The iconic elements in the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 make it
immediately recognisable as a “genuine BMW” and include the black
frame triangle, white lines and classic, boxer engine forms. The bike
itself, however, is powered by a zero-emissions solution.
The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 unites the past of the BMW Motorrad
brand with its future and is a powerful expression of both.
The frame triangle – a classic icon reinvented
The black frame triangle of the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 is a
deliberate reference to the first ever BMW motorcycle, the R32, made
in 1923. On the vision bike, however, it has been reinterpreted to
form a functional sculpture linking the front and rear wheels with a
dynamic sweep. Bearings and joints are nowhere to be seen; instead the
frame appears as a single, integrated whole.
Viewed from the side, the frame of the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100
lends it the character of a naked bike, with ergonomics to match and a
seat in the roadster position. The clever arrangement of surfaces
protects the rider from wind and weather as effectively as a full
fairing. The surface of the frame is covered in matt black textile,
its silky sheen and fine lines highlighting the characteristic forms
and representing a contemporary reinterpretation of this classic BMW
detail. The BMW logo is optimally displayed on the dark frame. It is
illuminated in the familiar blue and white colours while driving.
Flexframe – frame-assisted steering
The Flexframe appears as a single, integrated whole that extends from
the front to the rear wheel of the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100. Being
flexible, it allows the bike to be steered without the various joints
found on today’s motorcycles. Turning the handlebar adjusts the entire
frame, changing the direction of the bike. The amount of strength
needed to steer depends on the situation: at standstill, the Flexframe
allows a light steering whereas at higher speeds it remains very rigid.
Powertrain – inspired by the BMW boxer engine
In the middle of the triangle frame sits a style feature and
historical reminder: the power unit. Designed and created in the image
of the traditional BMW boxer engine, it actually consists of a
zero-emissions drive unit. Its outward appearance changes depending on
the circumstances: when the bike is resting, the power unit is
compact, extending outwards only when the bike sets off, to enhance
aerodynamics and protect the rider from the elements. Its polished
aluminium finish confirms the superior quality of this component.
Minimalist form, maximum quality of details
The slender-looking BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 clearly expresses
its qualities as a riding machine. The front is minimalist in design
and enhanced with high-quality details. Integrated into the frame
above the front wheel is a large metal reflector incorporating the two
vertically positioned, U-shaped elements that make up the daytime
running light. It also acts as a wind deflector and, in combination
with the small, integrated windshield, helps to optimise the air flows.
Body elements such as the seat, upper frame cover and wings are made
of carbon.
Beneath the seat shell, two fine, red, illuminated strips form the
rear light and indicators - picking up on the typical double-C form of
the rear lights on today’s BMW Motorrad bikes – but with a new,
futuristic twist.
Damping is provided by the tyres, whose variable tread actively
adjusts to suit ground conditions and ensure the best possible grip in
any situation.
Analogue elements in the digital age
Overall, displays, cables and buttons are a rare sight on the BMW
Motorrad VISION NEXT 100. But amid the clear forms of its front is one
element that immediately stands out: a red rocker-switch on the
right-hand end of the handlebar. This obviously mechanical element
blocks or releases the throttle grip and is a homage to the analogue
days of original biking.
The hand levers with their outward-facing joints are also a reminder
of days gone by.
BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100:
What kind of world will be home to the motorcycle of the future?
"Normally, when we develop a motorcycle, we tend to think 5 to
10 years in advance. On this occasion, we looked much further ahead
and found the experience especially exciting. There are some very
attractive prospects. I firmly believe the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT
100 sets out a coherent future scenario for the BMW Motorrad
brand," explains Edgar Heinrich.
When designing the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100, the team was
thinking decades in advance. In tomorrow’s world, connectivity and
digitalisation will be all-encompassing. Most vehicles will be
driverless, and life will be organised largely by digital services.
More and more of the world’s population will be living in urban areas.
Digital technologies for an analogue experience
Building on the benefits of the digital world, the BMW Motorrad
VISION NEXT 100 takes the analogue riding experience to a completely
new level. The unique sensation of freedom is made possible by
intelligent connectivity between rider, bike and the outside world – a
combination that also allows the prediction of critical situations on
the roads. In conjunction with the active assistance systems, these
connected elements help keep riders of the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT
100 in complete control of their ride. As well as anticipating what
lies ahead and alerting the user when action is needed, they offer
active rider protection and will consign the helmets and body
protectors of today to the history books.
"Self-balancing" – active, intelligent assistant systems
In certain situations, the active assistance systems of the future
will also enhance stability and safety by automatically balancing the
motorcycle, both out on the road and when stationary. Novice riders
will benefit from additional guidance in all riding situations and
from a bike that will never tip over.
The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 rights itself while even stationary,
remaining upright when the rider has dismounted. The balancing systems
also work out on the road to ensure a particularly agile and dynamic
riding experience with even lighter handling, which seasoned riders
will appreciate, and all the benefits of assistance systems to enhance
their capabilities even further. The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100
helps every biker become more proficient and enjoy an even more
positive riding experience. Every trip becomes a journey of freedom,
from beginning to end.
The Digital Companion – Connected. Ubiquitous. Discreet.
When combined, the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 bike and the special
rider’s gear that has been designed to accompany it form a single
functional unit: a Digital Companion that provides the situational
information and active support the rider needs. But because biking is
essentially about the experience, the Digital Companion remains in the
background: though constantly active, it works away unnoticed until
required to issue an alert via the user interface or provide active
assistance, for instance. Unless the rider or circumstances require
it, the Digital Companion remains silent.
“A key point with the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 was to make sure
the constant digital presence doesn’t undermine the analogue riding
experience. The display and operating concept works so subtly that the
rider can enjoy an entirely natural biking experience, trusting the
bike completely and enjoying complete freedom and ease. As interface
designers, our job is to deliver the right amount of the right
information at the best possible time and place," explains Holger
Hampf, Head of User Experience at the BMW Group.
The visor – the right information at the right time
Information exchanges between rider and bike take place largely via
the visor. This essentially consists of a pair of data glasses that
extends across the wearer’s entire field of vision. As well as
providing wind protection, it shows relevant data in one of four
designated display areas. These are controlled by the rider’s eye
movements: looking up or down changes the content that appears, and
looking straight ahead switches the information off completely,
leaving the rider to focus even more fully on biking experience.
Information is only projected onto the visor on request, or to alert
the rider to the fact that action is needed.
"The bike has the full range of connected data from its
surroundings and a set of intelligent systems working in the
background, so it knows exactly what lies ahead. By collating the data
it has gathered, it can suggest ideal lines and banking angles, or
warn riders of hazards ahead," Hampf continues. When suggesting
lines and angles, the Digital Companion appears in the lower third of
the field of view, represented by an upturned triangle from which two
horizontal lines extend outwards. Like the display in an aeroplane
cockpit, this symbol indicates the current banking angle and ideal
lines. If the bike’s current position does not match what is
suggested, the rider can correct it as necessary. If he or she
responds too late or not at all, the bike will correct itself. The
Digital Companion’s advice not only helps novices to learn more about
what they and their bikes can do. It also supports experienced riders
by allowing them to challenge themselves and continuously improve
their skills.
Looking upwards activates the rear-view function in the visor,
allowing the rider to see what is going on on the road behind.
Lowering the eyes to normal levels opens a menu from which the rider
can select an option by pointing a finger. Looking further down opens
the map view showing the rider’s chosen route.
Smart. Active. Flexible – rider’s equipment
The rider’s gear accompanying the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 is
integral to the unique overall experience. In classic black and white,
the airy suit enhances the sense of freedom and is both fashion
statement and weather-wear. Depending on conditions, it warms or cools
the user. While the diagonal zipper across the chest is reminiscent of
traditional motorcycle clothing, the flexible, banded structure of the
suit and shoes is inspired by the muscle areas of the human body and
provides body support and relief whenever needed.
At higher speeds, the neck section inflates to provide extra support
for the upper vertebrae and improve overall comfort. Variable openings
offer additional ventilation. Unlike present-day suits, however, the
futuristic outfit for riders of the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100
offers no safety features, because the bike’s intelligent assistance
systems make them superfluous. Instead, sensors in the suit keep track
of the wearer’s pulse rate and body temperature and provide the right
level of heat or cold. The suit also delivers navigation instructions
via the vibrating elements in the arms and legs, and alerts the rider
when the banking angle is becoming critical. Rider and machine form a
single functional unit to offer a more intense riding experience than
ever before. Edgar Heinrich sums up: "The BMW Motorrad VISION
NEXT 100 unites the best of both worlds – digital and analogue – for
the ultimate emotional experience: The Great Escape."
With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the
world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles
and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global
company, the BMW Group operates 31 production and assembly facilities
in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
In 2015, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.247 million cars and
nearly 137,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the
financial year 2015 was approximately € 9.22 billion on revenues
amounting to € 92.18 billion. As of 31 December 2015, the BMW Group
had a workforce of 122,244 employees.
The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term
thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established
ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain,
comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to
conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.
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Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. They refer to vehicles on the automotive market in Germany. For ranges, the NEDC figures take into account differences in the selected wheel and tyre size, while the WLTP figures take into account the effects of any optional equipment.
All figures are already calculated on the basis of the new WLTP test cycle. NEDC values listed have been calculated back to the NEDC measurement procedure where applicable. WLTP values are used as a basis for the definition of taxes and other vehicle-related levies that are (also) based on CO2 emissions and, where applicable, for the purposes of vehicle- specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures is also available at
bmw.de/wltp
.
For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the following web site
www.dat.de
.