BMW's new infotainment system throws everything onto the screen

The Panoramic iDrive from BMW is one of the characteristics of the Neue Klasse and is set to revolutionise operation. The system is based on a narrow display strip in the lower section of the windscreen, called Panoramic Vision. The new BMW Operating System X forms the software basis. The system has already been explained in outline together with the two Neue Klasse studies, and has now been presented in more detail at the CES electronics trade fair.

The new display and operating system will be included in all new BMW models from the end of 2025 and is expected to make its debut in the Neue Klasse SUV, which will probably be called the BMW iX3, and then in the corresponding saloon, probably called the BMW i3. 

Gallery: BMW Panoramic iDrive and BMW OS X

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Source: BMW

Panoramic Vision is described by BMW as a head-up display, albeit a new type. This means that the content is projected onto the windscreen. However, the display covers the entire width, from A-pillar to A-pillar. In addition, the background is black and not transparent.

The most important driving data is displayed on the left-hand side above the steering wheel. The content presented in the centre and right-hand area can be selected using the touchscreen. A normal head-up display above the display band is also available as an option. The touchscreen, which BMW calls the "central display", actually has the shape of a parallelogram. The advantage, according to BMW, is that it can be positioned close to the steering wheel in an ideal ergonomic position.

Photo by: BMW

The black-backed Panoramic-Vision band and the conventional head-up display in combination

To select the desired content for the centre and real area of the Panoramic Vision display, simply "swipe up" from the touchscreen. Up to six widgets can be displayed and the arrangement can also be personalised.

Photo by: BMW

Personalise the six Panoramic Vision display slots on the touchscreen

The new multifunction steering wheel looks quite "technoid" and futuristic. However, BMW has opted for its "Shy-Tech" concept, which aims to conceal the technology rather than push it to the fore. For example, the functions are only emphasised by illuminating the buttons when they are available. The buttons also provide haptic feedback.

Photo by: BMW

Buttons on the multifunction steering wheel: assistance systems on the left, volume, voice control, phone calls, etc. on the right.

A textured-like surface on the buttons is intended to ensure that the buttons can be operated "blind", i.e. without taking your eyes off the road. As before, assistance systems are located on the left and other content on the right of the steering wheel.

Basically, "Panoramic Vision" was already shown in the Vision New Class X study

With its new operating concept, BMW claims to have found the optimum combination of analogue and digital controls. There are physical controls for windscreen wipers, indicators, for adjusting the exterior mirrors, volume control and for "gear selection" (presumably P, N, R and D modes). Other functions can be selected by touchpad, voice or on the multifunction steering wheel, including telephony, media control, navigation and assisted driving.

Photo by: BMW

Selector for modes P, N, R, D and B:

The new BMW Operating System X is a one hundred per cent in-house development. Like its predecessor, BMW OS 9, it is based on an Android open source system. Compared to OS 9, the update and upgrade capabilities have been improved and should therefore keep the vehicles up to date with the latest technology over a long period of time.

The new system also makes it possible to optimally coordinate the displays of the various displays and controls. For example, when an incoming call is received, a graphic appears on the Panoramic-Vision band and a previously invisible symbol on the corresponding steering wheel button lights up green, indicating the option of accepting the call at the touch of a button or rejecting it with a swipe.

Photo by: BMW

Triple: navigation information in the head-up display, in the Panoramic-Vision band and on the touchscreen

When a navigation destination is entered via touchscreen or voice command, route guidance information is shown on the head-up display and further information about roads and junctions on the Panoramic-Vision band, while an overview map is displayed on the touchscreen.

Photo by: BMW

And every day the dog says hello: individualisation with personal photos as a background

The voice control system has apparently been improved together with Amazon, as you can get a first impression of its capabilities in a BMW X3 at the US company's CES stand. More complex commands should also be understood, especially in the area of navigation. For example, you can say: "Drive me to a charging station near which I can buy groceries."

As with the current BMW infotainment systems, the car can make suggestions based on usage behaviour. This function is further enhanced with the BMW OS X. The system points out assistance systems that you may not yet be aware of. The car also reminds you of Sport Mode on suitable routes. If you fail to respond to these suggestions several times, the system will refrain from doing so in future. The operating system also extends the integration of third-party apps. For example, the Zoom collaboration service is to be added with the option of video conferencing. 

More about the Neue Klasse:

BMW: electric, diesel and hydrogen for the mobility of the future

Neue Klasse: Everything you need to know about the new BMW platform

The bottom line

The new "Panoramic Vision" display in BMW's Neue Klasse vehicles is a projection of content in the lower area of the windscreen. Unlike the conventional head-up display, however, the displays extend from the far left to the far right.

The main advantage over instrument displays close to the windscreen, such as in the Citroën e-C3 or VW ID.7, is probably the better "entertainment" for the front passenger. Audi, Porsche, Mercedes and Smart in the #5 take a different approach here with a touchscreen in front of the passenger seat. We find this more convincing because the passenger can help with navigation, for example. But we don't want to pass judgement before we've seen the system for ourselves.