The futuristic hatchback was on display at the 2021 IAA auto show in Munich, showing the world what BMW thinks the sustainable luxury vehicles of the future will look like. Even the car's name is a nod to BMW's goal of circular manufacturing, where everything used in the car is recycled multiple times.
Where do the parts for the BMW iVision Circular come from?
The wheels are recycled aluminum while the blue-tinged tires are made from sustainably-harvested natural rubber. The windows are made from recycled glass with graphic display possibilities.
The BMW iVision Circular's high-tech features
Inside, an informative head-up display stretches across the entire lower part of the windshield. Each of the back seats features a dedicated sound zone that lets each passenger enjoy their own choice of music.
The entire vehicle is held together with press studs and other quick-release fasteners rather than composites and bonded materials. That makes it more environmentally friendly and easier to break down for recycling.
The Circular's interior looks just as amazing as its exterior
The soothing interior color scheme consists of a very pale mint green floor with the same color on the door panels. The front seats have a lounge chair vibe complemented by their replaceable, recycled fabric covering in a light violet color.
The interior accents carry the exterior's golden bronze color inside. A recycled glass roof lets plenty of light inside, so you can properly admire everything the interior has to offer.
Continuing the glass theme, a glass iDrive Controller from a defunct BW iXM acts as a lamp on the C-pillar. The interior also features 3D-printed crystal displays on the dashboard, as well as the twin touchpads on the steering wheel and in several other locations.
Cars of the future will still need insurance
BMWs currently contain 30% recycled/reused material. The company plans to increase that amount to 50% and beyond—until they hopefully reach their goal of 100% with the futuristic Circular.
