The focal point of the company’s CES showcase will be the all-electric BMW Vision iNEXT – the brand’s new technology flagship – which will enter production in 2021.
Visitors can use VR glasses to immerse themselves on a virtual, fully connected autonomous driving experience in the in the Vision iNEXT.
The Vision iNEXT has a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) design, and features two large opposing doors, with no B-pillar between them, that make it easy to climb inside.
A spacious continuous seat area gives the rear a laid-back lounge character.
Vision iNEXT drivers can choose to either drive themselves (in “Boost” mode) or be driven (in “Ease” mode).
“Boost” mode uses the electric drive train to deliver a silent driving experience with zero emissions.
In “Ease” mode, the vehicle creates space for the driver and passengers to engage in a wide range of activities.
Inside the generously-sized cockpit, the driver’s area is defined by only two visible digital display panels and the steering wheel.
The flat dashboard with beige fabric covering teams with wood accents and a clearly patterned wooden floor to create an inviting atmosphere.
In “Boost” mode, the steering wheel and displays are angled clearly towards the driver.
When switched to “Ease” mode, the driver’s immediate environment changes: The steering wheel retracts and the pedals drop down to create a more open sense of space.
Meanwhile, the Vision iNEXT also highlights the “Shy Tech” concept where technology is integrated out of sight, but always available.
There are three different applications of this “Shy Tech”: the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Intelligent Materials, and Intelligent Beam.
The Intelligent Personal Assistant switches on in response to the prompt “Hey BMW” or any individually chosen wake word.
This is interlinked with BMW Connected, smart devices, and the smart home network, enabling drivers to make purchases or close the windows of their house, for example, by voice command from their vehicle.
BMW Vision iNEXT
Intelligent Materials enable operating controls to be integrated discreetly into interior surfaces.
When driving in “Boost” mode, the Control Display can be operated using conventional touch functionality.
However, in “Ease” mode, the center console’s wooden surface assumes this control function instead.
Meanwhile, the Intelligent Beam technology can serve as both a dynamic reading light and an interactive projection screen.
This enables the text in a printed book, for instance, to be supplemented by images, moving content, and interactive graphics – all of which can be controlled by touch.
BMW Vision iNEXT
Self-riding BMW R 1200 GS
Also, to showcase the BMW Group's high level of expertise in automated driving, BMW Motorrad will present a self-riding BMW R 1200 GS which is able to start, accelerate, perform cornering maneuvers, slow down, and come to a stop – all by itself.
Development of this test vehicle will provide valuable insights into riding dynamics, which can then be used to help the rider recognize dangerous situations and master difficult driving maneuvers.
In this way, the self-riding motorcycle, with its comprehensive understanding of ideal lines and perfect cornering, correct braking point, and traction-optimized acceleration, can help the driver constantly improve their skills.
Off-road course in a X7
Just a few weeks after the world premiere of the BMW X7 in Los Angeles, CES 2019 visitors will have their very first chance to ride in the youngest member of the BMW X family on a demanding off-road course.
This is a good opportunity for the X7 to demonstrate its agile and versatile handling.
