BMW has filed a patent application for grilles containing headlights and other lighting elements, Auto Express reported Monday, citing information found in patent documents.
Documents filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization show designs that could integrate headlights as well as sensors for driver assistance functions into BMW’s signature dual kidney grille, the report said. Accompanying drawings from the patent application show the traditional headlamp and grille shapes assembled into continuous sections.
Patent image of a BMW radiator grille with integrated headlights
The documents also mention “photoconductive technology,” a material that covers the grille and can switch from opaque to transparent, giving the front fascia a smooth appearance when the headlights are off, the report said. Parts of the grille then become transparent when the headlights are needed, allowing light to shine through the material.
The drawings show some ways in which the grid surface could be used for lighting. An “Off” setting shows no lighting; “On 1” shows slim daytime running light-like shapes in their traditional position at the corners of the front apron; and “On 2” features illuminated elements that mimic vertical grille louvers.
Patent image of a BMW radiator grille with integrated headlights
Lighting elements could even be used to project a digital version of BMW’s dual kidney grille onto a grilleless front fascia, the report theorizes, noting that EVs don’t need large grille openings. BMW plans to launch a family of next-generation electric vehicles called Neue Klasse from 2025, based on a dedicated platform, although the automaker expects half of the vehicles it sells worldwide by 2030 will still have tailpipes will have.
Large grilles, like those on the XM SUV or the current 4 Series, have become a feature of recent BMW design. The automaker has also introduced illuminated grilles on some models. While critics of the new styling direction might balk, this seems like the next logical step. However, as with all patents, there is no guarantee this design will reach production.
