BMW will project all the information onto the windshield

BMW’s iDrive debuted in 2001. It’s hard to believe that it’s already been 24 years since this then confusing system was first fitted to the 7 Series (E65). Since then, technology has advanced significantly. It became bigger, better, more sophisticated and more advanced. However, the latest version, which we see here, could be the most important yet.

BMW’s latest iDrive system ignores the trend towards ever-larger screens, rejects classic instrument panels and transfers much more information to the windshield, so that the driver has all important information in the field of vision at all times.

BMW named this innovation “Panoramic Vision” and it will become standard in all models from the new “Neue Klasse” generation, regardless of the type of drive.

“Panoramic Vision” completely departs from the conventional layout of the cockpit in current BMW models. Classical instruments have been dropped completely. Instead, all elements are projected onto a unique screen located on the lower edge of the windshield, which extends across the entire width – from the left to the right A-pillar. This concept works like a Head-Up Display, but in a more advanced form.

The central multimedia screen will still exist. Now it’s in the shape of a parallelogram and works by touch. Everything is managed via BMW’s new Android-based operating system, called “Operating System X”. This system is also key to the so-called “Shy Tech”. For example, the buttons on the steering wheel light up only when they are relevant. If you receive a call, only the buttons needed to accept or reject the call will light up. In other cases, the buttons remain invisible, i.e. dimmed.

Some changes are debatable. Since the driver no longer has to look through the steering wheel to read the instruments, BMW has redesigned the steering wheel to look like it’s turned upside down. This takes some getting used to. On the other hand, moving controls and displays into the driver’s field of vision makes sense, as it minimizes distractions while driving.

While we’d love to see more physical buttons, we should keep in mind that this is still a concept system. When the Panoramic Vision goes into series production later this year, we’ll get a closer look at what BMW plans for the future of car interiors.