The infotainment and in-car control systems have become advanced and complex. However, manufacturers are striving to make these systems user-friendly despite their complexity. A great example is BMW’s iDrive system that promises complete control and convenience for the users. This BMW iDrive system will ensure the driver’s focus on the road and easy access to the infotainment system.
Let’s discover more about how the BMW iDrive system works, its types and generations.
WHAT IS THE BMW IDRIVE SYSTEM?
BMW manufactured and equipped the iDrive system in their vehicles from 2009. This BMW iDrive system eased the driver and vehicle communication. Users can use the climate control, multimedia system, GPS navigation and more through a controller. The controller wheel is placed between the two front seats for driver or front passenger to move it clockwise or anticlockwise to use the iDrive system accordingly.
This system got updates throughout the years. Let’s walk through the following BMW iDrive generations.
1st Generation
The BMW iDrive 1st generation was deployed in the BMW 7 series. The manufacturer gradually improved the design making it more user friendly with less buttons. Moreover, the first generation had two DVD/CD-drives and a multimedia screen measuring 8.8 inches diagonally.
2nd Generation
This generation of iDrive saw a few changes as the internal HDD drive replaced the CD/DVD drive. The second generation of BMW iDrive had a great user experience because it had a red border showing the selected menu or item.
The new innovation made in this generation also known as car information computer (CIC). This BMW iDrive system marked a beginning to new automotive innovations by the German auto manufacturer.
3rd Generation
The 3rd generation of the iDrive system introduced new and advanced features. It had an improved and intelligent vehicle connectivity. Moreover, BMW became the first manufacturer of head-up displays to provide the essential information on windscreen to the users.
This generation allowed integration of mobile devices and third party car care apps in the system and provided full access to the internet.
4th Generation
The BMW iDrive system became even smarter allowing more user control. The users can transfer maps and navigation information from their smartphones to the iDrive. Moreover, BMW users can also view vehicle status information and check the car’s health on time.
The enhanced voice control system made this system more user friendly. You can have a look at the used BMW X5 in the UAE featuring the BMW iDrive 7 operating system. Furthermore, the MyBMW application provides more control over modern safety features. In this generation, users can make upgrades in BMW iDrive via Remote Software.
5th Generation
The BMW iDrive 6, 7 and 8 are incorporated with more updates taking automotive telematics and car hacking preventions to a new level. The system not only allows users to make complete use of the infotainment system but also benefit from the car’s ergonomics. The following are some eye-catching features of the BMW iDrive system:
- Smart entrance system
- Connecting digital and analogue systems
- Modern colours and geometric designs
- Natural dialogue with BMW iDrive’s Intelligent Personal Assistant
- Simple display with a more advanced controller
WORKING OF BMW iDRIVE SYSTEM
Let’s give a read to how the latest BMW iDrive system works.
iDRIVE SYSTEM MODES
The BMW iDrive has three modes:
- Personal Mode: A user can set personal preferences, for instance, car lighting system, driving characteristics and other options.
- Sports Mode: This mode has focused layout, dynamic driving and the engine sound according to this mode.
- Efficient Mode: This mode allows the user to have an efficient driving experience and the car will consume the lowest possible energy.
ACT, LOCATE AND INFORM
The BMW iDrive system acts upon the user’s instructions input via voice or controller. This system locates the information and displays it on the screen, for instance GPS. Moreover, it informs the driver and front seat passenger with more functions and additional features.
DRIVER ENTRANCE
This BMW iDrive system facilitates a welcoming entry to the driver. As the driver approaches the car and is 3 metres away, the car lighting system automatically turns on. Driver approaches further and is 1.5 metres away, the car unlocks automatically. However, this only happens if the user is carrying the key.
As the driver enters the vehicle, seat adjustment and other user settings are loaded. The car connects to the user’s smartphone while they are still outside the car.
This was all about the BMW iDrive system which is adding more benefits to the infotainment system in a car. You can have a look at the used BMW cars in the UAE equipped with this system. Moreover, you can buy used cars in the UAE as all the latest cars are equipped with their own infotainment system.
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