BMW brings its innovative designs to executive jets.
BMW’s connection with the aviation industry started out in the early 20th century making aircraft engines. Production of aircraft engines halted after World War Two, and didn’t continue until 1990. The company’s latest venture in aviation takes the cabins and cockpits of the Embraer Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 to a whole new level of luxury.
Embraer, the world’s third largest aircraft manufacturer, invited BMW Group DesignworksUSA in 2004 to develop and design interiors for the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300. DesignworksUSA drew upon their experience in the automotive industry to create a functional and contemporary interior with first-class design quality.
Inside the cockpit, DesignworksUSA utilized knowledge gained from the automotive industry to create a comfortable and functional space for pilots. The innovative design gives the pilots the largest amount of space in the market, and rivals those of the next largest class of jet aircraft. Behind the cockpit, the cabin is designed with functionality and comfort for passengers. Baggage compartments are integrated into the sidewalls and under the seats to save space. The entrance and aisle has been designed to widen at the shoulders to give passengers a more comfortable space to move. A state-of-the-art flooring system was also introduced, both reducing cost and maintenance for owners. Seven new colors and materials are available for the luxurious interior.
Since Embraer began accepting orders for the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300, over 100 jets have been delivered, while over 600 are being processed. The successful partnership with DesignworksUSA has resulted in two additional contracts for the design of the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 jets.