The advanced Level 2 driver assistance systems from BMW are designed down to the smallest detail for seamless interaction between assistance and human driving habits. The aim here is not the highest possible level of automation in every situation, but a safe driver assistance experience that offers maximum benefit and remains controllable at all times. As a result, the driver always stays involved in the interplay between human and artificial intelligence. When driver assistance is active, for instance, the driver can accelerate, steer and brake as required, without instantly deactivating the assistance system in the process. The clear operating logic and displays in BMW Panoramic iDrive ensure assisted driving is intuitive and controllable at all times, enabling the safe use of the highest SAE Level 2 automation. The symbiotic interaction between driver and vehicle can also be experienced with active safety functions that work unobtrusively in the background as silent companions, such as the Lane Keeping Assistant. The driver’s intention is determined based on steering behavior and eye tracking, meaning that the system only assists with warnings and steering inputs when the driver is unintentionally drifting out of their lane or an impending collision is detected.
Thanks to BMW Symbiotic Drive, active safety functions will only intervene when danger is detected if the driver is distracted. Safety features include the Lane Keeping Assistant with active lane return, automatic evasion maneuvers within the car’s own lane, Active Blind Spot Detection and Side Collision Protection when there is a risk of a lateral collision, plus Cross Traffic Warning Front with Brake Intervention when turning into a road or exiting a parking space. The Forward Collision Mitigation with Evasion Assistant is also effective in helping prevent frontal collisions using maximum braking power if necessary, and also now does so in response to wildlife crossing the road. Added to which, the exit warning function delays doors being opened, e.g. when there is a cyclist approaching.
The standard Parking Assistant Plus package is capable of semi-automated parking, while the redesigned visualization of the surrounding area makes the selection of detected parking spaces even more intuitive. Automated parking maneuvers are carried out more swiftly and smoothly. Parking Assistant Plus provides a 360° all-round view with the option of switching between kerb, 3D and car wash views. The Maneuver Assistant is able to record and then perform recurring maneuvers (covering a distance of up to 650 feet). The Parking Assistant Professional offers the complete package, additionally providing extensive options for carrying out parking and stored manoeuvres remotely from up to six metres away using the My BMW smartphone app. All driver and parking assistance functions can also be activated digitally from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store at a later stage.
