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 launch, the Roadster received the 2009 International Design Excellence Award (IDEA).
The award is presented annually by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), based in Dulles, Virginia. The BMW Z4 received the bronze award, thus continuing the success story of BMW Group vehicles in this competition. Since 2000, nine vehicles from the BMW, Mini and BMW Motorrad brands have been recognized for their outstanding design.
The new BMW Z4 impressed the jury with an unmistakable design that reflects the driving pleasure characteristic of the roadster. With its long hood and wheelbase, large wheels and short overhangs, the two-seater possesses classic roadster proportions which are interpreted in a modern way. Its sophisticated surface design gives the Z4 an elegance from every perspective. Its appearance is that of a vehicle sculpted 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 aluminum lightweight construction also contributes to the harmonious design of the BMW Z4. When closed, the hard top provides a flowing, coupe-like roofline, which highlights the car's elegance. When open, it is discreetly 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 F 650 CS (2003). Furthermore, the BMW 3-Series Convertible and the motorcycle 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.