Designer Ronnie Fieg and Kith have unveiled their newest collaboration with BMW: a reimagined 1981 BMW M1 E26. This marks the third chapter in their ongoing partnership, blending BMW’s storied automotive heritage with Kith’s cutting-edge design ethos.
This bespoke project is rooted in the legendary M1, the first car produced by BMW’s renowned M Division. Fieg’s vision brought the vehicle to life through a meticulous year-long rebuild using original components from BMW’s archives.
The car’s exterior is finished in Techno Violet, one of BMW’s rarest colours, enhancing its exclusivity. A custom Kith M-Series badge graces the rear decklid, seamlessly integrating Fieg’s contemporary aesthetic with the M1’s iconic design.
Inside, the M1 is adorned with BMW Individual Black Merino Leather, featuring Kith’s signature monogram pattern. This refined motif embellishes key elements such as the seats, headrests, gear shift, door inserts, and floor mats, adding a bespoke touch to the classic sports car.
Mechanically, the car retains its original specifications, powered by a 3.5L inline-six engine delivering 277 horsepower and a top speed of 165 mph. These figures solidify the M1’s reputation as the fastest German sports car of its era.
Fieg reflected on the project, stating, “Rebuilding this Italian-designed, German-engineered icon through my lens has been an incredible journey. Techno Violet on the M1 is a dream realized.”
The one-of-a-kind M1 will debut on December 6, 2024, at the Kith for BMW Showcase in Miami’s 1111 Lincoln Road parking garage. The event will also highlight Fieg’s collection of custom BMWs, potentially accompanied by a new capsule collection to mark the occasion.
This collaboration not only celebrates BMW’s automotive legacy but also showcases Fieg’s ability to reinterpret classic design with a modern twist.
Ronnie Fieg is a renowned American designer, entrepreneur, and the founder of Kith, a globally recognized lifestyle brand. Fieg has established himself as a pivotal figure in the fashion and sneaker industries, blending streetwear with high-end fashion to create a unique niche that resonates with a wide audience.
A native of Queens, New York, Ronnie discovered his passion for sneakers while working at David Z., a footwear store owned by his uncle. This early experience became the foundation of his career, as he gained recognition for collaborations with major sneaker brands like Asics, New Balance, and Clarks Originals, reimagining classic designs with unique colorways and premium materials. In 2011, Fieg founded Kith, a brand that combines in-house collections with exclusive collaborations and curated multi-brand offerings. Known for its immersive retail spaces featuring elements like Kith Treats cafés and striking designs, Kith has become a global lifestyle powerhouse.
Fieg’s work spans footwear, fashion, and automotive design, with collaborations ranging from Asics, Nike, and Adidas to luxury brands like Versace and Moncler. His partnership with BMW, including reimagined cars and capsule collections, underscores his creative versatility and ability to bridge streetwear with high-end fashion.
Ronnie Fieg is celebrated for his innovative approach to design, focusing on storytelling, nostalgia, and craftsmanship. He bridges the gap between subcultures and mainstream fashion, making him one of the most influential figures in contemporary streetwear.
Through Kith, Fieg continues to push boundaries, expanding the brand’s influence globally and redefining modern retail experiences.
