Starting next year, BMW will introduce assisted driving features without the need for a steering wheel in various models in the UK. In the UK, BMW will launch L2+ Level Assisted Driving next year, eliminating the need to grip the steering wheel.
BMW L2+ Level Assisted Driving Technology Will Released Next Year
According to Matt Bacon, the head of large car products at BMW in the UK, the upcoming 5 Series models, including the i5, the i7 large electric sedan, and the iX electric SUV, will integrate L2+ Level Assisted Driving technology. This aligns with recent UK regulations that permit hands-free driving while staying attentive. Ford plans to launch BlueCruise, its hands-free steering system, in the UK, focusing specifically on the Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV.
In the United States, people know this system as Highway Assistant, but BMW, under Bacon’s leadership, is renaming it Motorway Assistant for the UK market. functionality is part of the Driving Assistant Professional in the Tech Pack Plus for the new 5 Series, offering adaptive cruise control and lane-centering features.
The availability of this system on a subscription or one-time purchase basis at the time of buying the vehicle is still under consideration by BMW. The roads where the system can be used remain unconfirmed by Bacon, but he has specified that a two-way lane with a central dividing strip is the minimum requirement. Upon entering a qualifying road, the vehicle will issue a reminder. BMW plans to utilize a front-facing camera to monitor the driver’s focus on the road, employing the Active Lane Change Assistant for hands-free lane changes. The system will suggest lane changes, and the driver will confirm by checking the side mirrors.
While BMW is making strides in autonomous driving, Porsche is also entering the arena with its electric Macan set to release next year. The vehicle will feature L2+ Level Assisted Driving, showcasing advanced driving assistance capabilities. This capability is part of the Supervision package from Intel’s subsidiary Mobileye, which incorporates a total of 11 cameras.
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