Former BMW Design Director Chris Bangle wanted to pursue his idea of creating a fabric-skinned car. He was seeking out materials that were lighter, more flexible and required less production energy than traditional metal skins.

After seeing a temporary exhibition about flexible skin architecture at Material ConneXion, Bangle was inspired to pursue the concept, and started researching high-strength and tear-resistant textiles with our team of experts. Their effort led to the GINA (Geometry and Function in “N” Adaptations) – a visionary shape-shifting sports car made from polyurethane-coated Lycra stretched over a wire-aluminum frame.

While only a concept car, the GINA’s innovative design is inspiring a new wave of sleek, lightweight and fuel-efficient automobiles.