BMW is celebrating the 20th anniversary of iDrive by introducing the newest version of its in-vehicle display and operating system via a digital experience at CES 2021.
BMW says iDrive’s latest features bridge the gap between analog and digital technology, enabling several new capabilities thanks to new types of vehicle connectivity. Increased digital intelligence, combined with an array of optimized sensors and cloud-based services, now enables increased levels of automated driving and parking. The new iDrive system is also able to provide drivers with predictive information, such as hazard warnings from other BMW vehicles and parking availability at a destination.
iDrive’s new levels of connectivity build on the digital momentum started in 2008, when BMW became the world’s first vehicle manufacturer to provide unlimited in-vehicle internet access. Third-party apps were soon integrated into the system, which then led to the development of the BMW Connected app—now called the My BMW app, which allowed BMW owners to fully integrate their vehicles with their digital devices for the first time.
When it was first introduced 20 years ago, iDrive was intended to streamline vehicle cockpits by removing excess buttons and controls and centralizing them under one control system, display, and controller, which was a rotary dial on the center console. The system enabled drivers to control several systems within the vehicle—entertainment, navigation, and telecommunications—in one place and in one display.
Coupled with the first voice control system in a vehicle, iDrive was billed as a “paradigm shift” to make it easier and safer for drivers to operate in-vehicle systems. The system saw a series of significant upgrades and added capabilities over the years, particularly a head-up display in 2004, integration of Google in 2007, and gesture control in 2015.
BMW’s virtual CES 2021 exhibit also features a video history of the automaker’s UX system development. Additional “behind-the-scenes” access to the iDrive development team’s work is featured. The exhibit’s collection of content is rounded out by a new episode of BMW’s “Re-Thinking Design” series, which was launched during the company’s #NEXTGen 2020 event.
Gary Mason contributed this article to Futurride. He’s a storyteller and communications professional with more than 10 years of experience in the automotive industry. During his career, Gary has represented such companies as Honda, ZF, Federal-Mogul, MTU, and General Motors, as well as several automotive steel producers. A content creator, Gary is always looking for great stories to tell. Contact Gary at gmasonPR@gmail.com.
