For those hoping that BMW‘s grille sizes would return to normalcy in the coming years, you might be out of luck, as new patent image filed to the World Intellectual Property Organization show kidneys that are not only bigger than ever before, but ones that also incorporate the headlights into a single unit.
This technology would most likely be used once BMW shifts to a more EV-centric lineup, as they have no need for the cooling that a traditional grille offers, and the smoother front end comes with the advantage of improved aerodynamics.
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Similar to the front end of BMW’s latest i Vision Dee concept, the patent images that were discovered by Carbuzz detail an electronic panel spanning the bumper that is able to light up certain sections to function either as headlights, a grille, or both. The patent filing suggests the illuminated “grille” and DRLs would be light-up elements on the surface of the panel, while the true headlights would actually reside behind it, revealing themselves by switching sections of the panel from opaque to transparent. The panel would also integrate all the necessary driver assistance sensors into it, further reducing clutter on the front end.
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We’re not sure if this new technology would result in a black void on the front of the vehicle every time it’s turned off, or whether BMW would be able to implement some kind of body-colored screensaver, but regardless, we’re personally not sold on the concept. In all fairness, if this feature would be the only thing populating future BMWs’ faces, it’s would at least be cleaner than their current design language, but the proportions and overall use of space are still a bit off in our opinion. That being said, we’ll reserve judgement until we can see it in a real-life application rather than just a wireframe drawing.
