The BMW 2002 Turbo, introduced in 1973, holds a revered place in automotive history as Europe’s first mass-produced turbocharged car. Its blend of performance and design has inspired numerous reinterpretations, both official and independent. One such imaginative endeavor is the BMW EV9, a digital concept that reimagines the classic 2002 Turbo for the electric era.
Conceived by digital artist Chacko Abraham, known in design circles as “chackonix,” the BMW EV9 project envisions a modern, all-electric successor to the 2002 Turbo. Abraham’s background includes collaborations with automotive brands like Ford, Lincoln, and Canoo, lending credibility to his futuristic designs. His EV9 concept pays homage to the original’s iconic features while integrating contemporary design elements suitable for BMW’s M GmbH high-performance division.
The EV9’s design retains the 2002 Turbo’s distinctive silhouette, characterized by its compact, boxy shape and aggressive stance. Abraham incorporates modern touches such as sleek LED lighting, aerodynamic enhancements, and larger wheels, aligning the vehicle with current automotive aesthetics. The concept also features the number 46, a nod to legendary motorcycle racer Valentino Rossi, adding a layer of motorsport heritage to the design.
While the EV9 remains a digital concept, it reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry: the electrification of classic models. Companies like Bavarian Econs have undertaken similar projects, converting vintage BMW 2002 models into electric vehicles. Their 2002te model, for instance, features a 33 kWh battery powering a 180-hp electric motor, achieving 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds. The more powerful Turboe variant boasts a 45 kWh battery and a 250-hp motor, reducing the 0-62 mph time to 4.5 seconds.
BMW itself has explored modern reinterpretations of the 2002 Turbo. In 2016, the company unveiled the 2002 Hommage concept at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 2002 series. This concept combined the classic design cues of the original with contemporary styling and technology, though it remained a design exercise without plans for mass production.
The BMW 2002 series, produced between 1966 and 1977, played a pivotal role in establishing BMW’s reputation for producing sporty, compact executive cars. The 2002 Turbo, in particular, was notable for its performance, featuring a 2.0L turbocharged engine that produced 170 hp, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 km/h.
The legacy of the 2002 Turbo continues to influence BMW’s design philosophy. The company’s forthcoming “Neue Klasse” platform is expected to draw inspiration from vintage models, blending retro design elements with modern technology to appeal to both classic enthusiasts and new customers.
In conclusion, the BMW EV9 digital concept by Chacko Abraham exemplifies the enduring appeal of the 2002 Turbo’s design and its adaptability to modern, electric interpretations. As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, such reimagined classics bridge the gap between heritage and innovation, offering a glimpse into how iconic designs can evolve to meet contemporary demands.
