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The LifeDrive architecture concept entails a Life Module and aforementioned Drive Module which includes more than the bare powertrain as integral.
The Life Module is the name for the passenger compartment, and BMW notes there is no transmission tunnel to impede into interior space.
The separation of the Drive Module adds to the greater than might be expected interior space for the small car and its weight distribution is nearly 50/50.
Inside the vehicle makes use of sustainably manufactured materials including an instrument panel surround and door trim use fibers from Kenaf plant. Olive-leaf extract is used to tan interior leather surfaces. A new bio-polymer based on castor oil is used even to construct the key. The owner’s manual is also made from renewable resources, and the car is made in Leipzig at a plant that relies on solar power.
Adding to the list of high quality renewable sources and recycled materials is the Next Premium interior, which BMW says blends sustainable resources with a premium feel for the same interior quality as the BMW 5 Series Sedan. Twenty-five percent of the plastics in the interior and 25 percent of the thermoplastic parts on the exterior are made from either recycled materials or renewable sources.
A magnesium cross-member for instrument panel saves 20 percent weight versus steel, and the layout is oriented toward the driver.
The design is pillar-less and the rear doors are coach style to allow for easy entry and exit to rear seats.