2003 EDAG Cinema 7D

The 2003 EDAG Cinema 7D concept car aimed to revolutionize the MPV class with a groundbreaking interior design focused on shared experiences. In a market where MPVs had become interchangeable and lacking distinct features, Johannes Barckmann and his design team sought to create a vehicle that evoked strong emotions, much like a convertible symbolizes freedom. They wanted the Cinema 7D to foster a community experience, where passengers could share the journey as they would a movie at the theater. This goal led to the car's distinctive feature—an amphitheater-style seating arrangement. With seats arranged in tiers, rising toward the back of the vehicle, each of the seven passengers would have an uninterrupted view of the road ahead. The seats were deliberately staggered, ensuring that everyone, not just the driver, could enjoy the journey.

This design reflected EDAG’s belief that MPVs should be more than just spacious vehicles. They envisioned a vehicle that emphasized social interaction and the joy of travel as a collective experience. EDAG's Cinema 7D achieved this by mimicking the layout of a cinema, transforming the act of travel into an emotional event, much like a group outing to the movies.

The Cinema 7D also incorporated traditional MPV features such as foldable or removable seats to increase cargo space. However, it broke with traditional automotive design rules, particularly in its exterior. The silhouette emphasized the passenger cabin, which was visually separated from the chassis. The bodywork, featuring smooth, upward-striving planes, gave the car an unmistakable look while still fitting within the typical size of an MPV.

In terms of engineering, the Cinema 7D was flexible enough to accommodate various drivetrains, from front, middle, or rear engines to fuel cell technology in the sandwich floor. This versatility demonstrated EDAG’s forward-thinking approach, catering to potential future demands for eco-friendly powertrains.

Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the Cinema 7D showcased EDAG's innovation and challenged traditional ideas in the MPV segment.