BMW recently revealed the GINA light visionary model concept car, an innovative new exploration in car design.

The concepts of this car has a close relation to fashion and garment design. Instead of the traditional steel and plastic body shell, the Gina concept uses a textile fabric which is stretched like a second skin garment over the frame of the car.

By using this flexible textile fabric the look and feel of the car can be changed according to the mood and/or taste of the driver. The interaction of the body, movement and the flexible skin are more reminiscent to the interaction of garments, like for example skirts and dresses, around the human body then to  regular cars.

The project began by questioning the purpose of a car’s body and exploring new possibilities. Chris Bangle, director of design for BMW, discuses the project in the video above. The car is currently on show at the BMW museum in Munich, Germany.

Design of the pattern and cutting of the fabric for the BMW Gina concept car. 

Photos and video by BMW | Youtube