BMW Z4 wins International Design Excellence Award (IDEA) 2009

Just a few weeks after its market launch, the BMW Z4 achieved bronze in the IDEA 2009, an award presented annually by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) based in Duelles in the state of Virginia. It thus continues the success story of BMW Group vehicles in this competition. Since 2000, nine vehicles of the brands BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad have been recognised for their outstanding design.

The new BMW Z4 impressed the jury with its classic roadster proportions, interpreted in a modern way with a styling which is characteristic of the brand. Its sophisticated surface design gives the roadster a fascinating elegance which can be seen from every perspective. Its appearance is that of a vehicle sculpture shaped as a single entity. An equally characteristic feature is the low seating position close to the rear axle.

For the first time, a BMW Roadster is fitted with a retractable hard top. The dual-section roof in aluminium lightweight construction also contributes to the harmonious design of the BMW Z4. When closed, the hard top provides a flowing, coupé-like roof line which highlights the car's elegant look. When open, it is discreetly and harmoniously integrated into the flat rear.

The success of the BMW Z4 builds on the outstanding showing of the BMW Group in this competition in past years. Three vehicles of the BMW Group have received a gold award: the motorcycle models BMW K 1200 LT in 2000 and BMW R 1200 GS (2004) and the MINI Cooper S (2003) while the BMW X5 (2000) and the MINI Convertible (2005) received silver, and the BMW F 650 CS (2003) motorcycle landed in bronze. What is more, the BMW 3 Series Convertible and the BMW F 8090 GS motorcycle achieved finalist status in last year's competition.

The official award ceremony will be held on September 26th 2009 after the annual international design conference of the IDSA in Miami.