BMW is placing increased emphasis on interior air quality, material selection and scent as part of a broader approach to sustainability in the new i3. The company says health and well-being in the passenger compartment are now being systematically integrated into vehicle development, supported by testing at its in-house odor laboratory.
“Health and well-being are an integral part of product sustainability for us,” said Nils Hesse, vice president of product sustainability at BMW Group.
BMW’s sustainability strategy covers the full vehicle lifecycle, from raw material sourcing and production to use and recycling. Within this framework, interior conditions are treated as a key factor influencing occupant health. Emissions from materials, along with environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, are assessed to minimize potential impacts on passengers.
Interior air quality and its impact on health
The company has used its own testing methods for more than 25 years to measure emissions and evaluate scent profiles in vehicle interiors. These processes are informed by toxicology, health and sensory research, and contribute to both internal standards and wider industry discussions. BMW avoids artificial fragrances, aiming instead for a discreet and authentic interior scent aligned with its premium positioning.
Scent as a subconscious dimension 
Scent is treated as a functional element of the in-cabin experience. According to BMW, it can influence emotional responses through its interaction with the limbic system, contributing to perceived comfort and safety. As a result, odor management is considered alongside material selection as part of a multisensory design process.
Inside the scent laboratory
Testing is carried out at BMW’s odor laboratory, where materials, components and full vehicle interiors are evaluated under realistic conditions. The process combines measurement technologies with human sensory assessment, with trained specialists assessing how different materials interact to create the overall interior environment.
“Environmental factors and a growing health awareness are changing how we perceive our living spaces – including our cars. Our customers expect products that are designed to take their health and well-being into account. That is why interior air quality is a key product feature in our holistic approach to sustainability,” concluded Hesse.
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