BMW Launches Icon Electric Hydrofoil: Luxury meets Innovation on the Water

Sunday - May 21 2023, 13:24 UTC - 1 year ago

BMW has unveiled its latest creation, an all-electric hydrofoil vessel named Icon. Developed in collaboration with BMW Group Designworks and German boat builder TYDE, as well as Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, the Icon boasts an oversized glasshouse and a state-of-the-art digital command center with a 32-inch touchscreen. It is powered by six BMW i batteries with a capacity of 240 kWh, with a top speed of 30 knots. The Icon is a testament to BMW's dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and efficiency, while blending luxury.

Founded in 1916, BMW has established itself as one of the world's leading automotive brands, recognized for its premium vehicles, cutting-edge technology, and innovative design.

In a stunning blend of design prowess and cutting-edge technology, the German automobile manufacturer has unveiled its latest creation, the Icon electric hydrofoil. Developed in collaboration with BMW Group Designworks, German boat builder TYDE, and Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, the distinctive vessel has emerged from the realms of imagination to make its debut in real life at the 76th Cannes Film Festival. Hans Zimmer is the composer for major movies like The Lion King, Inception, and Dune.

With its sleek design, the Icon promises to captivate both water enthusiasts and celebrities alike. It looks almost architectural with more aircraft-inspired elements than a traditional boat. The Icon boasts an oversized glasshouse nestled between a distinctive green-colored hull and a wing-like roof. The symmetrical placement of the tall stern fin and the creased bow creates a captivating contrast against the mesmerizing lack of symmetry in between.

Designed for luxury .

According to BMW, the Icon's exterior design translates well to the on-board experience, with expansive windows that offer panoramic views, and downward-facing lower panels that contrast well with the elevated ride of the foiling system. The triangular widening from bow to stern provides a spacious 14.7-ft-wide (4.5-m) entry to the aft lounge—a lavish space enveloped in floor-to-ceiling glass. Inside, the aft salon showcases avant-garde angular furniture. Reflective bases redirect natural light that floods through the windows, while the seats rotate 360 degrees to you can take in views from all angles. At the helm, traditional nautical controls are replaced with a state-of-the-art digital command center. An oversized 32-inch 6K HMI touchscreen, running on BMW Operating System 8, offers intuitive, car-derived controls. The digital information presentation and voice commands evoke the feeling of being on the road, inside an electric BMW.

Powering the Icon are six BMW i batteries, boasting a total capacity of 240 kWh. Paired with drag-reducing hydrofoils and two 100-kW motors, this 43.14-ft (13.14-m) marvel can cover up to 50 nautical miles (93 km) per charge, reaching a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h) with a comfortable cruising speed of 24 knots (44 km/h). Adding to the sensory experience, Hans Zimmer, a frequent collaborator with BMW, has created a soundtrack for the voyage, which passengers can enjoy via the vessel-wide Dolby Atmos system.

As the Icon electric hydrofoil graces the waters of Cannes, it serves as a testament to BMW's dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and efficiency, blended with luxury.