The new BMW Z4 draws attention to itself not just on the road but also among internationally renowned design experts. Just a few weeks after its market launch, the Roadster has now received the International Design Excellence Award (IDEA) 2009 in the USA. The award is presented annually by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), based in Duelles in the state of Virginia. The BMW Z4 received the bronze award, thus continuing the success story of BMW Group vehicles in this competition. Since 2000, nine vehicles of the brands BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad have been recognised for their outstanding design.
The new BMW Z4 impressed the jury with a design which unmistakably and authentically reflects the driving pleasure characteristic of the roadster. With its long bonnet, long wheelbase, large wheels and short overhangs, the two-seater possesses classic roadster proportions which are interpreted in a modern way with a styling which is characteristic of the brand. Its sophisticated surface design gives the BMW Z4 a fascinating elegance which can be seen from every perspective. Its appearance is that of a vehicle sculpture shaped as a single entity. An equally characteristic feature is the low seating position close to the rear axle. The resulting driving experience and the visual impression of the roadster thus provide a perfectly integrated and fascinating whole.
For the first time, a BMW Roadster is fitted with a retractable hard top. The dual-section roof in aluminium lightweight construction also contributes to the harmonious design of the BMW Z4. When closed, the hard top provides a flowing, coupe-like roof line which highlights the car's elegant look. When open, it is discreetly and harmoniously integrated into the flat rear.
The success of the BMW Z4 at the 2009 International Design Excellent Awards builds on the outstanding showing of the BMW Group in this competition in past years. Three vehicles of the BMW Group have received a gold award: the motorcycle models BMW K 1200 LT in 2000 and BMW R 1200 GS (2004) and the MINI Cooper S (2003). Silver has gone to the BMW X5 (2000) and the MINI Convertible (2005), bronze to the motorcycle model BMW F 650 CS (2003). What is more, the BMW 3 Series Convertible and the motorcycle model BMW F 8090 GS achieved finalist status in last year's competition.
The international jury of the International Design Excellence Awards presented awards in 17 categories this year. In addition to products from the fields of transport, office equipment, communication, household and consumer electronics, there was also assessment of design research projects and innovations in the field of environmental technology. The official award ceremony will be held on September 26th 2009 after the annual international design conference of the IDSA in Miami.