The BMWi3 has recently been shown at a recent car show and is being marketed as the first one of BMWs many cars to be powered electronically and not by gas. Despite this amazing feature, there is even more exciting news about this promising prototype. The i3 is said to be the first of BMWs automobiles to DRIVE ITSELF. In fact, the word "prototype" might be incorrect to use because there has already been a BMW i store opened in London, UK.
"London, like many other cities around the world, faces environmental and traffic congestion challenges that require innovative and sustainable mobility solutions."
In addition to the most exciting feature about this not-so-futuristic innovation, it will also have the following features.
Adaptive cruise control with stop and go: The car will maintain a consistent distance from the car in front of it, slowing up and accelerating as it does. It will even come to a stop and accelerate once again as the lead car does.
Passive Front Protection: The i3 will detect a possible collision whether it be another vehicle, object or pedestrian and alert the driver. If the driver doesn't react to avoid the collision the car can apply the brakes itself and stop to avoid the accident.
Traffic Jam Assistant: While driving 27 mph and slower, the i3 will basically drive itself by combining the adoptive cruise control and the ability to stay centered within the markings of the lane you are in. The driver will need to keep at least one hand on the steering wheel as a safety feature.
Parking Assistant: The i3 will parallel park itself. This isn't as groundbreaking as Traffic Jam Assistant because it is offered by other automakers, but it's good to see it there also.
Passive Front Protection: The i3 will detect a possible collision whether it be another vehicle, object or pedestrian and alert the driver. If the driver doesn't react to avoid the collision the car can apply the brakes itself and stop to avoid the accident.
Traffic Jam Assistant: While driving 27 mph and slower, the i3 will basically drive itself by combining the adoptive cruise control and the ability to stay centered within the markings of the lane you are in. The driver will need to keep at least one hand on the steering wheel as a safety feature.
Parking Assistant: The i3 will parallel park itself. This isn't as groundbreaking as Traffic Jam Assistant because it is offered by other automakers, but it's good to see it there also.
The feature wherein the car will be able to drive itself is traffic jam assistant. This will be most effective in cluster inner city driving situations where drivers are forced to "stop and go" because of bumper-to-bumper traffic and traffic lights. Because this can be so tedious, I personally believe that this innovation is a necessity and the first step towards truly self-operating vehicles that won't even need steering wheels or windows for passengers to see through (But of course, for aesthetic purposes they will have them). Feel free to leave your own comments and concerns on this topic.
Pictures and Videos of the i3 are below
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I have actually had the opportunity to drive one of these. These cars are very fun to drive and the technology is incredible. This is the beginning of a new trend in the automobile industry. Tesla has shown that just because it is electric doesn't mean it can't be luxury. Even though the I3 isn't as aesthetically appealing as the tesla this will be a start of something bigger for BMW
ReplyDeleteI remember watching a video about BMW's car manufacturing processes last year and it talked about this model. BMW does a great job of positioning their brand in the mind of consumers. They plan car models and risk innovation five to seven years in advance.
ReplyDeleteI think this model was on time (and planned to be here at this time). Before this model hit the US market, I can see this model benchmarking the quality of luxury cars.
At first glance you see another typical article about a car that can drive it self. When reading what Mr. Armstrong wrote and the corresponding articles, I fell in love with the concepts. As a native of Los Angeles and a resident of Atlanta I absolutely hate being stuck in traffic. Most of the time I wish could be doing other things. However with the traffic jam assistance feature it allows you to relax and let the car take you to your next destination. I am not normally a fan of technology doing basic human activities but if this is a glimpse into the future, then I am excited for what comes next.
ReplyDeleteWhen the electric car was introduced, I never thought that there could be something more exciting than that feature. Electric cars saved mainly on environment pollution. Now the "Driverless" cars are even more exciting! I can't believe that I can sit on the passenger sit in my own car or even take a nap on the back sit. Well, I can also do other work while it's driving me home. This is an interesting feature on cars.
ReplyDeleteNice car dear second hand land rover in kent & Audi Kent
ReplyDeleteWow this car might have great technology but it looks butt ugly. I applaud BMW for taking chances but the exterior styling is more Honda Element than Telsa S. While I appreciate the simplistic interior, sticking a large gear selecting unit to the right of the steering column looks out of place.
ReplyDeleteHi, BMW latest model year for 2015
ReplyDelete2015 BMW i3
Hi, BMW latest model year for 2015
ReplyDelete2015 BMW i3