In a remarkable fusion of art, technology, and automotive innovation, BMW has unveiled the i5 Flow Nostokana, a color-changing art car that redefines the boundaries of design and functionality in the automotive world.
This groundbreaking vehicle, inspired by the iconic 1991 BMW 525i Art Car created by South African artist Esther Mahlangu, showcases the advanced capabilities of E Ink technology, transforming the car’s exterior into a dynamic canvas that shifts colors and patterns on demand.
Esther Mahlangu, a revered figure in the art world, is celebrated for her vibrant Ndebele-inspired designs, which she has now brought to the automotive realm in collaboration with BMW.
The i5 Flow Nostokana not only pays homage to Mahlangu’s pioneering work but also marks a significant leap forward in the application of E Ink technology on vehicle exteriors. With 1,349 individually controlled sections of E Ink film, the car’s surface can display an array of colors and intricate patterns, making it a moving piece of art.
The BMW i5 Flow Nostokana was developed with the intention of merging art and innovation, creating a vehicle that stands as a testament to BMW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
The use of E Ink technology on such a complex curved surface is a feat that BMW proudly claims as unique to their capabilities. This technology, which began with the ability to switch between black and white, has evolved to display up to 32 colors, offering unprecedented versatility in vehicle design.
The unveiling of the i5 Flow Nostokana at the Frieze Los Angeles art fair represents a significant moment in the intersection of automotive design and art. Accompanied by a unique soundscape composed by Renzo Vitale, the car’s presentation integrates elements of Mahlangu’s artistic process, including the sound of the feathers she uses for painting and her voice, with the sound of pencils used by BMW designers.
This collaboration highlights the deep respect and admiration BMW holds for Mahlangu’s work and the cultural significance it carries.
Beyond its artistic value, the i5 Flow Nostokana serves as a glimpse into the future of automotive design, where vehicles are not just modes of transportation but also personalized works of art. The robustness and versatility of the E Ink segments hint at the potential for this technology to be applied to production vehicles, offering consumers the ability to customize their cars in ways previously unimaginable.
As the automotive industry continues to explore new avenues for innovation, the BMW i5 Flow Nostokana stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when art and technology converge. It not only honors the legacy of Esther Mahlangu and the history of BMW’s Art Car series but also opens up new possibilities for creative expression and design in the automotive world. The i5 Flow Nostokana is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that encapsulates BMW’s vision for the future, where technology itself becomes art.
This remarkable project underscores BMW’s ongoing commitment to cultural engagement and innovation, demonstrating how modern technology can breathe new life into traditional art forms and make them accessible to new audiences. As we look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead, the BMW i5 Flow Nostokana serves as a beacon of creativity, innovation, and the endless potential for collaboration between artists and engineers in creating the cars of the future.
