The Vision BMW Alpina concept offers an exciting preview into the evolving identity of Alpina, which has transitioned from a renowned tuning firm to an integrated subbrand within BMW. This design study, unveiled at the prestigious Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, beautifully encapsulates Alpina's enduring mission: to engineer high-performance vehicles that prioritize supreme comfort. It’s a testament to the brand's heritage, promising a new era of luxurious yet powerful automotive experiences while retaining the distinctive characteristics that have long defined Alpina.
Burkard Bovensiepen founded Alpina in 1965 with a clear vision: to enhance BMWs for greater speed without sacrificing ride comfort. His innovative approach, even extending to adding extra padding to race car seats, highlighted a commitment to driver well-being that set Alpina apart. This philosophy remains central as BMW brings Alpina in-house as an official subbrand. The Vision BMW Alpina concept, a striking coupe measuring over 204 inches, showcases this fusion of power and luxury. While specific technical details are still emerging, the presence of a V-8 engine strongly suggests that the upcoming production model will carry forward Alpina's tradition of robust powertrain offerings.
The aesthetic design of the Vision concept consciously harks back to previous successful collaborations between BMW and Alpina. A prominent 'shark-nose' front end pays homage to the iconic Alpina B7 from the 1970s, establishing a visual link to the brand's rich history. Signature 'deco lines' adorn the flanks, a distinct Alpina stripe that enhances its elegant profile. The wheels, featuring a classic 20-spoke design, further underscore the brand's meticulous attention to detail and adherence to its established stylistic elements. Another notable exterior feature is the 'speed feature line,' a sophisticated crease that originates at the lower front corners and extends along the sides at a precise six-degree angle, wrapping around the rear. This design element, coupled with elliptical quad exhaust pipes, contributes to a visually dynamic and cohesive appearance.
Inside, the Vision BMW Alpina prioritizes the driver's and passengers' experience. Beyond traditional 'Sport' and 'Sport Plus' modes, the concept introduces a 'Comfort Plus' setting, emphasizing an elevated level of ride refinement. A 'Speed' mode is also available, catering to performance enthusiasts. Rear passengers are treated to opulent amenities, including a glass water bottle – distinct from a decanter – elegantly stored behind the console. Crystal glasses, held in place by magnets and etched with 20 deco lines mirroring the wheels, underscore the vehicle's luxurious appointments. The cockpit is dominated by BMW's Panoramic iDrive display, which includes a passenger screen, although its practical application in real-world scenarios remains to be fully explored, typical of a visionary concept vehicle.
Burkard Bovensiepen's decision to pursue automotive modifications over a career in typewriter manufacturing proved to be pivotal, shaping a legacy that BMW has now fully embraced. The Vision BMW Alpina concept acts as a powerful statement, building anticipation for the first production model expected next year. This concept promises to continue Alpina’s tradition of blending high-performance engineering with an unwavering commitment to luxurious comfort, presenting a bold and exciting future for the brand under the BMW umbrella.
