At CES 2025, BMW Group has showcased the close-to-production version of the new BMW iDrive with Panoramic Vision. Slated for release in all new BMW models from the end of 2025, it is powered by BMW’s latest Operating System X.
The new iDrive merges four central elements into a display and operating concept. The main feature is the Panoramic Vision – a head-up display concept newly developed by BMW for projecting content. It reflects information from A-pillar to A-pillar onto a black printed surface in the lower section of the windshield. This information will be visible to all occupants.
The important driving information will be projected into the driver’s line of sight on the left side of the Panoramic Vision (in LHD cars), above the steering wheel. The driver can personalize the content in the central and right-hand areas of the BMW Panoramic Vision via the central display. The integration of the BMW Panoramic Vision creates a 3D effect for the occupants. The head-up display above the Panoramic Vision also shows integrated navigation and automated driving information directly in the driver’s field of vision.
The Panoramic Vision is easy to operate. As many as six widgets (selected content) are possible and can be arranged as desired. A new multifunction steering wheel uses BMW’s shy-tech approach – relevant buttons are illuminated to highlight available functions. The steering wheel serves as the primary physical control, and its buttons provide active haptic feedback.
The new design uses an optimal combination of analog and digital controls through the use of switches, buttons, touch and voice control. There are haptic switches for the windshield wipers, turn signal indicators, exterior mirrors, volume control, gear selectors and window de-icers. Other functions are optimized for operation using touch/voice control or via the steering wheel, such as telephone functions, media control systems, navigation, assisted driving, personalization of displays, etc.
BMW says the development phase of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive included numerous studies conducted in the brand’s usability labs, in which around 3,000 customers were involved. “High tech meets highly intuitive operation – a quarter of a century of pioneering work and technological leadership in operating concepts has been channeled into the new BMW Panoramic iDrive,” said Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW, responsible for development.
The new BMW Operating System X is based on an Android Open-Source Project (AOSP) software stack. It is stated to offer greater update and upgrade capability than the prior system.
Stephan Durach, senior vice president, connected company, BMW Group, said, “It offers intuitive operation, emotionally engaging experiences and specific personalization. The new BMW iDrive with Operating System X demonstrates the potential of a software-defined vehicle.”
The BMW Operating System X works together with the Panoramic Vision, optional BMW 3D head-up display, central display and multifunction steering wheel in such a way that physical and digital experiences merge.
