The BMW Group has unveiled a stunning one-of-a-kind creation at the Frieze Los Angeles art fair: the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. This unique vehicle merges cutting-edge color-changing technology with the artistic vision of South African artist Esther Mahlangu.
The i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is a testament to BMW‘s commitment to both artistic expression and technological advancement. Sections of the car’s body are wrapped in a special E Ink film that can be electronically manipulated to display a dazzling array of colors and patterns. This technology, similar to that found in e-readers, allows for millions of microcapsules within the film to change their orientation through electric pulses, creating the visual magic.
Mahlangu’s signature vibrant colors and geometric designs come alive on the i5 Flow NOSTOKANA’s body. The animations flow across the roof, hood, trunk, sides, and even mimic the artist’s brushstrokes. This interplay between art and technology is further heightened by a specially composed soundscape by Renzo Vitale, BMW Group’s Creative Director of Sound. The soundscape blends elements of the BMW brand with the rhythms of Mahlangu’s Ndebele culture, creating a truly immersive experience.
The level of detail achieved in the i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is remarkable. A staggering 1,349 individually controlled film sections meticulously recreate Mahlangu’s intricate patterns. This feat of engineering involved a collaborative effort between BMW and E Ink, with laser cutting and electronic control systems designed specifically for the project.
This isn’t the first time BMW has pushed the boundaries of color-changing car exteriors. In 2022, the BMW iX Flow featuring E Ink showcased the ability to switch between black and white. The i Vision Dee concept car, unveiled a year later, upped the ante with a multi-colored display of 32 shades. The i5 Flow NOSTOKANA represents the next step in this technological evolution, boasting a wider color palette and more robust film sections, hinting at the possibility of future production applications.
However, for now, the i5 Flow NOSTOKANA remains a singular artistic statement. It also serves as a tribute to the pioneering artist Esther Mahlangu. Famed for her Ndebele paintings, Mahlangu has dedicated her life to preserving and reinterpreting these cultural symbols. The i5 Flow NOSTOKANA takes her artistic legacy to a whole new level.
The unveiling of the i5 Flow NOSTOKANA coincides with several other BMW Group initiatives celebrating art and culture. At Frieze Los Angeles, BMW will once again present Frieze Music, a program highlighting the intersection of music and art. Additionally, in South Africa, the “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective” exhibition, co-hosted by the Iziko Museums of South Africa and the BMW Group, showcases the artist’s life work. This exhibition, running until August 11, 2024, offers a deeper dive into Mahlangu’s artistic journey.
The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is more than just a car. It’s a rolling canvas, a testament to artistic vision, and a glimpse into the future of automotive technology. With this innovative creation, BMW has blurred the lines between art and engineering, leaving a lasting impression on the world of electric vehicles.
