IDEA Design Award for BMW Z4 Roadster

The recently launched BMW Z4 Roadster was awarded by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) with the International Design Excellence Award (IDEA) 2009 in the U.S., by that joining other nine vehicles from BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad which were also recognized for their design since 2000 to the present day.

The Roadster impressed the jury with its long bonnet, long wheelbase, large wheels and short overhangs and by a modern interpretation of the classic roadster proportions. The low seating position close to the rear axle also had its contribution to the jury’s decision.

In the past, three vehicles form BMW Group won an IDEA gold award: motorcycle models BMW K 1200 LT in 2000 and BMW R 1200 GS (2004) and the MINI Cooper S (2003). Silver went to the BMW X5 (2000) and the MINI Convertible (2005), bronze to the motorcycle model BMW F 650 CS (2003). Bronze is also what the BMW Z4 got this year. Moreover, the BMW 3 Series Convertible and the motorcycle model BMW F 8090 GS achieved finalist status in last year’s competition.

The Z4 is the first BMW Roadster to feature a retractable hard top, which can be opened or closed in no less than 20 seconds. The overall dimensions are now slightly different, with the trunk capacity raised to 310 liters when the roof is closed. This means the upgraded model provides up to 50 liters more compared to the traditional fabric top version.

The second-generation BMW Z4 was officially announced in December 2008 and was first showcased at the 2009 North American International Auto Show held in Detroit. BMW's new roadster will come in a choice of three engine configurations, with maximum output between 204 and 306 horsepower.