this post was submitted on 09 Jun 2025
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Weird Wheels

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In a heartwarming blend of imagination and engineering, BMW USA took on the whimsical challenge of designing a concept car based on the wild specifications dreamed up by a 4-year-old boy named Eli.

Inspired by a conversation with his uncle, a Jalopnik reader, Eli envisioned a BMW with 42 wheels, 19 Porsche engines boasting a combined 8,721 horsepower, three steering wheels that could all control the car simultaneously, and a trunk full of toys to play in. The idea gained traction when his uncle shared the specs with the Jalopnik community, prompting BMW’s marketing team to bring this fantastical “4219Eli” to life as a conceptual design, complete with a playful nod to the young gearhead’s vision.

BMW’s rendition, showcased on their Facebook page, embraced Eli’s core ideas—42 wheels for a 42-wheel-drive setup and a toy-filled trunk—while adding a touch of their own flair, like features inspired by the BMW Z3.

The automaker cleverly sidestepped the logistics of 19 water-cooled, turbocharged Porsche boxer engines, focusing instead on a visually striking concept that captured the spirit of Eli’s dream.

Dubbed the “4219ELi” (42 wheels, 19 engines, Extra Long wheelbase, and fuel injection), this quirky creation won’t hit dealerships, but it highlights BMW’s willingness to engage with fans in a fun, imaginative way. “Eli, we think you might be onto something,” BMW USA posted, hinting that this 4-year-old’s boundless creativity could inspire future design whimsy.

Other Entries (Not BMW):

Links: https://www.businessinsider.com/bmw-designs-42-wheel-car-for-4-year-old-2013-2

https://www.jalopnik.com/help-a-four-year-old-visualize-his-dream-car-5980101/

https://www.netimperative.com/2013/02/14/childs-play-bmw-designs-car-based-on-4-year-olds-idea/

https://www.chron.com/cars/article/BMW-designs-oddest-car-for-4-year-old-boy-4262824.php

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