At CES 2025 in Las Vegas, BMW showcased its Panoramic Drive system which is close-to-production ready and will feature in late 2025 with the Neue Klasse lineup.
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Shown at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, the new iDrive incorporates the BMW Operating System X, which serves as the intelligence hub for the display and operating concept. This system highlights a modern design that not only enhances aesthetics but also drives functionality across all new BMW models. The hallmark of this innovative interface is the BMW Panoramic Vision, a feature designed to keep the driver focused squarely on the road while providing critical information.
The Panoramic Vision projects information across the entire width of the windshield, allowing for a truly immersive and customizable driving experience. Passengers are also included in the information-sharing, with the design ensuring everyone can see relevant data while still prioritizing driver safety. The Central Display, ergonomically positioned near the steering wheel, adopts Matrix Backlight technology to adjust to various light conditions, ensuring visibility is never compromised.
A new multifunction steering wheel with haptic feedback complements this sophisticated interface. It enhances interaction, ensuring the driver can control features without taking their hands off the wheel. Additionally, an optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display dramatically elevates the experience by streaming navigation and assisted driving displays directly into the driver’s line of sight, further adhering to BMW’s motto: Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road.
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Users can tailor their driving experience with the My Mode Personal feature, allowing them to set preferences such as drive system configurations and steering dynamics. BMW has even made it possible for drivers to upload personal photos and customize the colour scheme of the Ambient Light and Central Display. This extensive personalization transforms the driving landscape, ultimately creating a vehicle that feels more like an extension of the driver.
One of the standout features of this new system is the “HypersonX” sound experience, developed by BMW’s Sound Design Studio. It comprises 43 unique sound signals that adapt based on the driving mode and situation. This atmospheric audio enhances the emotional connection between the driver and their vehicle, making each journey more engaging.
As with previous generations of iDrive, the BMW Operating System X is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). With this in-house development, BMW aims to achieve greater digital independence while continuing to seamlessly integrate third-party content. This strategy opens the door to an array of future infotainment experiences, including streaming and gaming options.
