BMW Concept i4 Electric Gran Coupe Rocks Its Own Soundtrack
To create a new and original sound for the future, BMW brought in legendary composer Hans Zimmer.
Recently, BMW debuted its much-anticipated EV Concept i4. The automaker wants this car to push boundaries and expectations. In essence, the BMW Concept i4 is not just a glimpse at the future of what we drive, but if the experience itself. Style, handling, performance, and sound.
As such, the Concept i4 is more than just its design. It also boasts a visionary sound profile. So why not get the best? BMW brought in prolific film score composer Hans Zimmer to create the sound of the BMW Concept i4. Zimmer worked with BMW sound designer Renzo Vitale under the brand name BMW IconicSounds Electric to give the i4 a new soundtrack.
“Renzo and I were inspired to bring together the past and future of BMW with the sound for the BMW Concept i4,” explains Zimmer. “We hope the sound we created is classic yet surprising and has a feeling of lightness that is fitting for the BMW brand.”
The aural sounds of the BMW Concept i4 range from the driving sounds in the Experience Mode “Core,” to the more powerful “Sport” mode. Acoustic accompaniments to a door opening and when starting the car are also a part of its soundscape.
“Sound defines personality, and adds emotion, and depth to a character,” says Zimmer.
Rather than describe it, check it out.
Look And Listen
Zimmer and Vitale presented the new start/stop sound in Zimmer’s Santa Monica studio in November 2019. The ready-to-drive sound for all-electric BMW models and BMW plug-in hybrids will be introduced as a standard feature worldwide starting in July 2020.
“The ability to design the sound in our vehicles makes it possible for us to spark positive emotions,” says Vitale. “The new start/stop sound is intended to instill a sense of excitement at the prospect of electric driving when the customer gets into their vehicle and begins the journey.”
It is certainly a different idea, but one that we think could ultimately benefit the oncoming electrification.
“Sound has always played an important role in the emotionalization of our vehicles,” said Jens Thiemer, Senior Vice President Customer and Brand BMW. “Now we are taking the joy of sheer driving pleasure to a new level…This collaboration will result in our forward-looking sound offering for electrified vehicles.”
When it comes to EVs, many of us have reservations that these vehicles–while looking slick and cool–they just might be lacking something. We want to drive cars that feel and handle like cars, no matter the powertrain. And certainly enhancing the exhaust note and aural components could entice electric-shy buyers.
Photos: BMW
