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at the 2024 chengdu auto show, the new bmw x3 long wheelbase version made its global debut at the 2024 chengdu auto show. the new car has a longer wheelbase for the first time, increasing the standard wheelbase version by 110 mm to 2,975 mm, which is consistent with the bmw x5 standard wheelbase version. at the same time, the new bmw x3 long wheelbase version has a body length of 4,865 mm, the longest in its class, and a width of 1,920 mm, the widest in its class, showing an unprecedented sense of volume and bearing. this time we were fortunate to participate in an interview with mr. hoydonk, senior vice president of bmw group design. the following is the transcript of the interview:

question: how does the new bmw x3 long wheelbase version integrate global elements while reflecting consumer needs?

hoydonk:when designing the bmw x3, the long wheelbase version and the standard wheelbase version were designed simultaneously. bmw has a design studio in shanghai, and has been integrating the needs of chinese consumers since the early stages of the project. this ensures that the importance of the chinese market is fully reflected in the design. our goal is to focus on simple and powerful expression on the basis of inheriting bmw's classic design, simplifying the complex without losing details. through the reinterpretation of classic proportions and lines, the new generation of bmw x3 still has bmw's unique visual recognition, while meeting the dual needs of chinese consumers for luxury and modernity.

question: how does bmw respond to the trend of intelligence and the impact of ai on design?

hoydonk:ai and intelligent technology bring new opportunities and challenges to car design. we believe that technological progress can always provide new opportunities for design innovation, but human creativity and unique emotional expression are irreplaceable. our design philosophy is "less is more", creating stronger brand recognition by streamlining lines and elements. ai can help us achieve this goal, for example, by reducing the number of physical buttons in the interior through intelligent technology, making the driving experience more relaxed and comfortable.

question: what do you think about the discussion sparked by the design of the new 5 series?

hoydonk:the design of the new 5 series reflects our brand's pursuit of "simple but not simple". it outlines a stronger personality with fewer lines, showing the direction of bmw's new generation of design language. discussion and controversy are actually positive because it means that our design can resonate with emotions. the mission of bmw design is not just to change, but to create sustainable brand recognition through change, which is why we insist on exploration and innovation.

question: what do you think about the future design direction of bmw's double kidney grille?

hoydonk: bmw's double kidney grille is an iconic design element of the brand, and it will continue to evolve in the future. with the popularity of electric vehicles and the application of smart sensors, the form and function of the grille are also changing. we may replace chrome with light in the future, but it is key to keep the brand highly recognizable and distinctive. in any evolutionary process, our design will continue to inherit bmw's classics, while also having the courage to break through innovation.

question: how do you view the impact of chinese brand new energy vehicle design on bmw?

hoydonk: the rapid development and innovation of the chinese market are an inspiration to bmw. we have seen many chinese brands excel in design, which inspires us to continue to innovate and drive the brand forward. bmw's design will not converge due to competition, but will continue to stand out in the global market with its unique brand genes and style.

question: what was the biggest challenge the team faced when designing the new bmw x3?

hoydonk: the biggest challenge is how to continue to innovate on the basis of success. we hope to create works that meet the aesthetic and technical needs of the future while retaining the classic proportions and core design elements of bmw. the design language of the new generation bmw x3 is more concise, but the use of each element has been carefully considered to better interpret the concept of "less is more".

question: how do you view the phenomenon that the development of intelligence and electrification has led to the convergence of automobile designs?

hoydonk: i agree with this observation. with the development of electrification and intelligence, the designs of many brands tend to be similar. therefore, we emphasize the uniqueness and sustainable recognition of the brand. bmw's design must be combined with its long history and innovative technology to remain unique in the market. even in the direction of simple design, we must maintain the precision and uniqueness of every detail.

question: will the minimalist design of the new bmw x3 lose its individuality?

hoydonk: minimalist design does not mean losing individuality. on the contrary, it can inspire emotional resonance among users. we convey more brand stories and emotions through simple design. every line is carefully considered. fewer design elements can more strongly express the characteristics and personality of the bmw brand.

question: is the new bmw x3 the last generation of fuel-powered bmw x3? what is its design connection with future "new generation" models?

hoydonk: we are still unsure whether this generation of bmw x3 will be the last generation of fuel-powered models. future designs will gradually turn to electrification and intelligence. bmw's new generation of models will combine classic design elements with the future electric vehicle design language to create models that better meet the needs of the times.

question: will the body size of the new bmw x3 continue to grow?

hoydonk: the growth of body size is necessary, but a balance must be struck between multiple factors. bmw pursues an overall efficient design, which includes optimizing aerodynamic performance and body weight while increasing interior space. therefore, in the future, we will pay more attention to how to optimize these factors without increasing body length.

(photo/text by zou yuyuan)