BMW Group has unveiled the next-generation digital infotainment system 'BMW Panoramic iDrive,' which combines innovative display and vehicle control concepts.
Going beyond simply enlarging the screen, it redefines the driver-centric interaction standard through the organic integration of hardware and software.
At the core of this technology is the 'BMW Panoramic Vision.' This display, placed 110 cm wide at the bottom of the windshield, spans between the left and right A-pillars. Information is projected onto a specially nano-coated black surface, ensuring high contrast and clarity, designed to integrate information in a 3D effect not only for the driver but also for passengers.
It is complemented by the 'BMW 3D Head-Up Display.' Integrated at the top of the Panoramic Vision within the driver's line of sight, it projects navigation and autonomous driving information in 3D images. These two displays complement each other to show content in a way that allows the driver to acquire all driving information without taking their eyes off the road.
The central display adopts a 17.9-inch size with Matrix Backlight technology and a 'Pre-Cut Design.' Particularly, the ergonomic placement tilted 17.5 degrees towards the driver maximizes operability.
On the software side, the key technology is 'Quick Select.' Custom widgets are vertically arranged on the home screen, allowing users to execute major functions with just swipes up and down without going through sub-menus. For example, touching the light icon immediately enters detailed lighting settings.
In terms of physical control devices, 'Shy Tech' is introduced. Buttons on the multifunction steering wheel light up only when available, and tactile feedback helps identify buttons by touch alone. This results in maintaining essential safety functions like wipers and turn signals with physical buttons while integrating the rest of the interface digitally.
The system's brain, 'BMW Operating System X,' is developed based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). The 'Intelligent Personal Assistant,' integrated with Large Language Models (LLM), significantly enhances natural language processing capabilities. It is linked with the Digital Key Plus based on Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology to automatically recall user habits, seat settings, widget arrangements, etc.
Frank Weber, Head of BMW Group Technology Development, stated, "BMW Panoramic iDrive will set new standards in the field of multimodal interaction as an integrated infotainment system."
The BMW Panoramic iDrive will be applied to all electric vehicle models starting with the pure electric SAV 'The New BMW iX3' to be launched in the third quarter of this year.