BMW has always been a pioneer in the automotive industry, combining cutting-edge technology with stunning design and performance. But the German automaker is not only interested in engineering excellence, it also has a passion for art and culture. That’s why, since 1975, BMW has commissioned some of the world’s most renowned artists to create unique and spectacular Art Cars, transforming its vehicles into moving masterpieces.
The latest addition to this illustrious collection is the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. This one-of-a-kind electric sedan pays homage to the 12th BMW Art Car, the 1991 BMW 525i E34, designed by South African artist Esther Mahlangu. Mahlangu, the first woman and African artist to work on an official BMW Art Car, used her distinctive Ndebele painting style to adorn the car with colorful geometric patterns.
The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA, which is named after Mahlangu’s first son, takes inspiration from her artistic language but adds a futuristic twist: the car can change its colors on demand, thanks to the innovative E Ink technology developed by BMW in cooperation with E Ink Corporation. E Ink is a technology that uses electrically charged particles to create different shades of black and white on a surface, similar to how an e-book reader works. The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA has several million microcapsules embedded in its bodywork, each containing white and black pigments that can be manipulated by applying an electric voltage. This way, the car can switch between different patterns and animations, creating a dynamic and interactive exterior.
The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA premiered at the Frieze Los Angeles art fair on February 29, 2024, dazzling the audience with its color-changing abilities. The car also features a unique sound created by Renzo Vitale, acoustic engineer and sound designer at the BMW Group, who composed a musical piece that reflects the car’s mood and environment. The sound is played through the car’s speakers and can be controlled by the driver or the passengers via a smartphone app.
The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is not only a stunning work of art but also a showcase of BMW’s technological prowess and vision for the future of mobility. The car is based on the BMW i5, the electric version of the BMW 5 Series, which offers a range of up to 400 miles on a single charge and a power output of 530 horsepower. The car also has a host of advanced features, such as:
- A digital assistant that can recognize the driver’s voice and gestures, and provide personalized information and services.
- A head-up display that projects relevant data and navigation instructions onto the windshield, enhancing the driver’s awareness and safety.
- A wireless charging system that can replenish the battery without the need for cables or plugs, using a special pad installed on the ground.
- A self-driving mode that can take over the steering, braking, and acceleration in certain situations, such as highway driving or parking.
The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is a testament to BMW’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and art. The car is a beautiful and functional vehicle and a statement of BMW’s values and vision. As Esther Mahlangu said, “Art comes from your heart and talks to the people. Art is also something that you never forget.” The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is a car you will never forget.
