The Future of Transportation: EVs, Vision Cars, and Beyond

BMW’s Head of Design for Upper Mid-Size, Luxury Class, and ALPINA, Maximilian Missoni, hosted a roundtable at the 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este after the unveiling of the Vision BMW ALPINA. This grand tourer, powered by a V8 engine, marks the beginning of BMW’s utilization of the ALPINA name, acquired in 2022. The first production model, based on the G72 7 Series, will offer V8 and electric powertrains from 2027.

During the roundtable, Missoni discussed the design process behind the Vision BMW ALPINA. He emphasized the challenge of blending two strong brands with rich histories into a cohesive design that sets a new brand identity. The 5.23-meter length of the Vision car positions it at the pinnacle of luxury before cascading down to other models.

Missoni delved into his journey of familiarizing himself with ALPINA, starting with an ALPINA history book left on his desk by Adrian van Hooydonk. The team delved into the brand’s heritage, drawing inspiration from classic ALPINA models and paying attention to intricate details that define the brand’s identity.

Regarding the distinction between ALPINA and BMW M, Missoni highlighted that both brands cater to performance but differ in their expressions. While M focuses on track performance and responsiveness, ALPINA embodies comfort, luxury, and confidence while delivering power.

The discussion also touched on the idea of separating ALPINA from BMW as a standalone brand, which Missoni dismissed, citing the historical association of ALPINA with BMW. He emphasized that the combination of the two brands adds to the charm and essence of ALPINA.

One of the major revelations was the newfound design freedom that ALPINA enjoys under BMW’s umbrella. With access to BMW Group’s platform architecture, ALPINA can explore new design possibilities and push boundaries previously restricted by engineering constraints.

A significant challenge discussed was integrating driver assist sensor systems into the exterior design seamlessly. Missoni highlighted that accommodating numerous sensors and cameras while maintaining the aesthetic appeal poses a significant challenge for designers.

The discussion also addressed the shift towards electrification, with ALPINA set to offer electric powertrains alongside combustion engines. This move aligns with BMW’s technology openness and provides customers with a choice of powertrains, enhanced with the ALPINA treatment for performance, comfort, and luxury.

In conclusion, the roundtable provided insights into the evolution of ALPINA under BMW’s stewardship, emphasizing a blend of heritage and innovation to carve a unique identity in the luxury automotive market. The brand’s commitment to preserving its legacy while embracing technological advancements sets the stage for future models that embody the essence of ALPINA.