BMW subsidiary designs train in Malaysia

Everything BMW is not about modern and sophisticated cars alone! BMW Group subsidiary DesignworksUSA has developed the design for a new underground passenger train. Klang Valley, the metropolitan region around Malaysia`s capital Kuala Lumpur, is home to around four million people. In order to strengthen the appeal of this fast growing region and to prepare for the urban transit challenges of the future Kuala Lumpur will rely on the innovative Metro Inspiro by German train manufacturer Siemens.

Being built by Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd a total of 58 trains will be in service as of 2017 on one of the most frequented lines of the city. The design for these new trains have been developed by DesignworksUSA, according to a statement by BMW.

“The exterior design is a bold statement of dynamism and strength. It symbolises self confidence, technological leadership, progress and safety,” says Laurenz Schaffer, President of BMW Group DesignworksUSA. The light concept in the front of the train bears a strong graphical character. It is a reference to the facetted architecture of the capital. In the train interior the interplay of past and future continues: The lively colour concept with varying shades of blue and traditional symmetrical patterns is a fresh interpretation of the vitality and cultural diversity of Kuala Lumpur.

Colour contrasts in the door areas help guide passengers and enable an easy entrance or exit. The train interior features an LED lighting system. The use of indirect light beneath the seats creates a feeling of spaciousness and safety and enables easy maintenance of the trains.

A metropolis’ identity is notably determined by the quality and visual impression of its local public transport system. Identity also was a key driver in the design development of the new Metro Inspiro for Kuala Lumpur: The cityscape is characterized by a mixture of cultures and religions manifested in a rich architectural diversity. Tradition and progress are at the heart of the people’s pride and self confidence and also inspired the design concept for the new metro. Under the name “Guiding Light” the design of the Metro Inspiro takes a bow to the rich heritage of Kuala Lumpur and makes a strong statement towards the future.