BMW Group UK has partnered with Global, the Media & Entertainment Group, to bring a library of radio stations, award-winning podcasts and expertly curated playlists to the dashboard of over 180,000 BMW and MINI vehicles, as both brands are first to integrate the Global Player app directly into a vehicles’ built-in app store.

Integrated directly into the car’s infotainment system, the Global Player in-car app removes the need to connect a smartphone. Once downloaded from the BMW or MINI app store, drivers can simply sign in once and gain instant access to their personalised content, with the ability to switch effortlessly between listening in their vehicle, at home, or in the office, all without interruption.

Via the Global Player app, drivers can rewind and pause their favourite radio shows, catch up on programmes, and browse thousands of podcasts and playlists all using their vehicle’s built-in infotainment system and controls. Alongside a variety of other third-party apps, Global Player is integrated seamlessly into the vehicle’s user interface. In addition, the data required for streaming Global Player content is included as part of the connectivity provided by a BMW Digital Premium or MINI Connected Package subscription.

Today, over 180,000 BMW and MINI vehicles on the road in the UK support the new Global Player in-car app, with this figure projected to exceed 300,000 by the end of 2026. This growth will include the all-new BMW iX3, powered by the latest BMW Operating System X, as well as all future Neue Klasse models.

Chris Hollis, BMW Group Customer Digital Applications Manager said: “We’re excited to offer BMW and MINI customers enhanced connectivity through the new Global Player in-car app, allowing them to enjoy their most-loved music, news and podcasts with ease. This latest addition complements the wide variety of apps already available for customers and further strengthens our seamless in-car entertainment experience.”

Stephen Toombs, Head of In-Car Distribution for Global Player at Global said: “This partnership with BMW Group UK is part of our ambition to make Global Player available everywhere our audiences are. We know that in-car listening plays an important role in people’s daily routines and we want to make finding the audio they love as easy as possible.”


Ends

*Compatible BMW and MINI models featuring Operating System 9 or newer, which includes the BMW 1 Series (2024 onwards), BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé (2025 onwards), BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (2024 onwards), BMW X1/iX1 (2023 onwards), BMW X2/iX2 (2024 onwards), BMW X3 (2024 onwards), BMW iX3 (2026 onwards) and all MINI models (2024 onwards).


The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


About Global

Global is one of the world’s leading Media & Entertainment groups. With a huge weekly reach, it is the UK and Europe’s largest Radio & Outdoor company.

Global is home to respected, national, market-leading media brands including Capital, Heart, Classic FM, LBC, Global’s Newsroom, Smooth, Radio X, Capital XTRA and Gold Radio.

Global Player, the official app for all our brands, is at the core of Global’s content, allowing listeners to enjoy all of Global’s brand content, both audio and video, as well as award-winning podcasts, and expertly-curated playlists, in one place in app, web and smart speakers.

With an extensive and diverse portfolio, Global is also the leading Outdoor company in the UK & one of the largest in Europe with over 235,000 sites reaching 95% of the UK population.

Global Studios, which includes Fellas Studios and The Overlap, is the the ultimate one-stop-shop for podcast creators, with best-in-class video and audio facilities, seamless distribution across all major platforms, and the marketing power of Global’s radio, digital and outdoor network.

On-air, on Global Player and with our outdoor platforms combined, Global reaches 51 million individuals across the UK every week, including 29 million on the radio alone.

Global created and operates DAX, the market leader in digital audio advertising. Through its proprietary technology, DAX connects advertisers with an audience of more than 130 million people worldwide, inserting targeted advertising into music streaming services, connected radio listening and podcasts, and operates a pioneering platform in programmatic outdoor advertising.

The company headquarters is in London’s iconic Leicester Square. Ashley Tabor-King CBE is Founder & Executive President, Simon Pitts is Group CEO, Stephen Miron is Chair and James Rea is Chief Broadcasting and Content Officer. Ashley Tabor-King created Global in 2007.

www.global.com
@global


For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk


Ali Laurie
Head of Corporate Communications, Global
Tel: 07929 209 644
Email: Ali.Laurie@global.com

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market.

Munich. The new BMW iX3 is in the spotlight at CES 2026. For the first time, the enhanced, AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with Alexa+ technology will be presented to the public. As the debut model for the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 showcases groundbreaking innovations that will shape the entire model range of the brand in the future. By 2027, the technologies of the Neue Klasse will be integrated into a total of 40 new models and model updates from BMW.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant expanded with Amazon Alexa+.
One year after the world premiere of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X at CES 2025, visitors to this year’s CES can experience the revolutionary user-interaction concept firsthand in the BMW iX3. With a balanced combination of digital functions and physical elements, it elevates intuitive operation according to BMW’s guiding principle ‘Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road’ to a new level of driver orientation. Built on the technological foundation of a software-defined vehicle, the customer experience in the BMW iX3 continues to evolve. For the first time, BMW presents the next generation AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. BMW is the first manufacturer to expand its voice assistant with the AI assistant Amazon Alexa+. This enables intuitive and intelligent interaction between passengers and the vehicle in a natural dialogue. The interaction includes the operation of vehicle functions as well as access to information and knowledge beyond the vehicle. For the first time, passengers can ask multiple questions in a single sentence—covering both your vehicle’s features and e.g. general knowledge topics.

The integration of Amazon Alexa+ into the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant represents a technological leap forward that focuses on added value for the customer. The AI technology used in the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is a Large Language Model (LLM), a generative AI that understands language and is capable of formulating its own responses. Starting in the second half of 2026 at the latest, this further development will be gradually rolled out in Germany and the USA across all BMW models equipped with BMW Operating System 9 and X. (LINK TO FULL RELEASE)

BMW iX3 transforms waiting time into entertainment: stream a movie, play a video game or make a video call.^[1]
The BMW booth at CES also focuses on the wide range of entertainment options in BMW Operating System X. It offers an extensive selection of apps, videos, and games. In addition to the popular streaming service Disney+, customers in the BMW iX3 have access to the Video App (powered by TiVo™). This app enables video streaming on the central display when the vehicle is stationary, with a continuously growing selection of content such as news, live, and on-demand streaming. The portfolio of the video streaming platform will continue to evolve.

The BMW ConnectedDrive Store will also soon include the YouTube Music app for the first time, joining the more than 85 apps worldwide in categories such as Music & Audio, Entertainment, Gaming, News, Travel & Local. YouTube Music gives customers access to an extensive catalog with over 300 million tracks, including the official studio recordings, remixes, live performances, and hard-to-find covers. Zoom now allows video calls on the iX3’s central display for the first time when the vehicle is stationary. As soon as the vehicle starts moving, the video transmission stops, and the conversation seamlessly continues via audio.

In-car gaming via AirConsole, as introduced for the first time with the BMW Operating System 8.5, is also available in the new BMW iX3, featuring world-renowned titles like UNO^®️ Car Party!
A new highlight in AirConsole’s extensive game library is Hot Wheels: Xtreme Overdrive™️ from Mattel, available exclusively to BMW customers. AirConsole allows users to use their own smartphones as controllers, so all passengers can play together or compete against each other. Additional games and apps for in-car entertainment can be accessed through the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Selected games in the BMW iX3 can also be controlled using Bluetooth controllers from conventional gaming consoles.

Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology: higher efficiency, more range, faster charging.
The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology developed for the Neue Klasse comprises highly efficient electric motors, fundamentally new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, and 800V technology. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors, which together generate output of 345 kW/469 hp and 645 Nm (475 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). Its electric all-wheel-drive configuration consists of an extensively upgraded electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) with particularly high levels of efficiency at the rear axle and, at the front axle, a new asynchronous motor (ASM) distinguished by its compact design and high cost efficiency. The combination of EESM and ASM is evidence of the BMW Group’s commitment to technological neutrality within electric mobility as well. The drive technology developed for the Neue Klasse reduces energy losses by 40 per cent compared to fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, weight by 10 per cent and manufacturing costs by 20 per cent.

The new high-voltage battery concept with cylindrical cells for the Neue Klasse also achieves significant advances. The energy density on a cell level is 20 per cent higher than with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, and the new concept also paves the way for a 30 per cent increase in charging speed. The cylindrical cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell to pack”), which benefits energy density and cost efficiency. Added to which, the high-voltage battery is integrated into the vehicle architecture as a structural component to minimise weight (“pack to open body”). The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive has a usable energy content of 108.7 kWh, enabling a range of up to 805 kilometres (500 miles) in the WLTP cycle.

BMW Charging: short charging times, premiere for bidirectional charging.
The advances brought by sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology have a significant influence on the charging experience, too. A maximum charging rate of 400 kW enables users to fill their new BMW iX3 with enough energy at an 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station to add up to 372 kilometres (231 miles) ^[2] of range in just ten minutes. The high-voltage battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in 21 minutes. Thanks to the battery management tech with integrated switching matrix developed completely in-house by the BMW Group, the new BMW iX3 can also be charged from 400V DC stations. Upgrades to the battery preparation also help to shorten charging times. The new BMW iX3 50 xDrive can top up on alternating current (AC) at 11 kW as standard or 22 kW ^[3] as an option.

Extensive bidirectional charging functions ^[3] are also available for the new BMW iX3, meaning that it can be used as an energy supply source for a variety of applications. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function turns the new BMW iX3 into a mobile powerbank, which can supply electric devices with power while on the move. Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) hands it the role of storage unit for solar energy generated by home-fitted photovoltaic systems. And customers can also hook their car up to the energy market via the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) application and earn some money in the process.

The selection of standard-fitted and optional charging accessories has been significantly expanded. For flexible charging during a journey, customers can make use of the new Multifunction Charger, which comes with several adapters for charging and discharging the high-voltage battery. The new BMW Wallbox Professional (DC) enables bidirectional charging at home or work. And BMW Charging offers the option of cost-optimised /solar-power-optimised home charging.

In order to give owners the best possible charging experience, the new BMW iX3 will be fitted as standard with an NACS (North American Charging Standard) compatible charging port. This will provide iX3 owners access to the vast Supercharger network, while a standard CCS (Combined Charging System) adapter will preserve access to other providers from coast to coast, thus ensuring that iX3 owners are never far from a provider no matter where the journey is taking them.

Heart of Joy: The Ultimate Driving Machine reaches a new level.
One of four superbrains in the electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy looks after drivetrain and driving dynamics management. This high-performance control unit is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation, and steering functions, and processes information up to ten times faster than conventional control units. In this way, the potential of electric mobility in terms of instantaneous power delivery, smooth power transfer, agility, stability, and efficiency is fully realized.

Together with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack developed fully in-house, the Heart of Joy calculates all the driving dynamics parameters with a new level of speed and precision. The driver and passengers in the new BMW iX3 experience a uniquely harmonious and BMW-typical driving sensation whatever the situation. Every movement of the accelerator, brake pedal, and steering is executed directly and with assurance and precision. Supreme traction and – thanks to the unique Soft Stop function – the smoothest stopping process ever achieved by a BMW are among its other attributes. In addition, the efficiency of the new BMW iX3 is optimized by the integrated management of drivetrain, braking system, and energy recuperation. In everyday driving, 98% of braking maneuvers are carried out using recuperation only, without application of the friction brakes. The only occasions these are called upon are under emergency braking and during extremely sporty driving.

“Superbrain of automated driving” for the driver assistance systems with of the next technology generation.
Another high-performance computer brings together all the automated driving and parking functions in the BMW iX3. With 20 times greater processing power than in the previous vehicle generation, the watercooled “superbrain of automated driving” enables a significant technological advance with the Neue Klasse in this area as well.

BMW Symbiotic Drive provides seamless support.
The BMW iX3 uses its Symbiotic Drive capability combined with driver assistance to create a completely new driving experience. Whenever the driver wants to accelerate, brake or steer, their inputs merge seamlessly and intuitively with AI-enabled software.The result is a whole new form of Sheer Driving Pleasure. For example, the automatic cruise control system is not deactivated with only a light press of the brake pedal; instead, it is only switched off when the driver brakes harder. In the same way, the lane control assistance remains active even after light steering inputs by the driver.

With the optional BMW Highway / Motorway Assistant ^[4], drivers can take their hands off the steering wheel permanently at speeds of up to 85 mph / 130 km/h, while remaining attentive and ready to intervene. The system assists with vehicle guidance within the lane and can also perform automated lane changes when needed – a simple glance confirmation by the driver is sufficient. With active BMW Maps route guidance, the system proactively suggests lane changes at highway interchanges and exits, which can be confirmed with a quick glance in the wing mirror. The Highway Assistant remains active while passing through interchanges and until the end of highway exits. This allows BMW iX3 drivers to enjoy Level 2 driver assistance without touching the steering wheel in even more situations.

The new Highway and City Assistant ^[4] also offers innovative functions for urban environments, such as stopping and automatically restarting at traffic lights. Additional driver assistance features for complex urban driving situations will be rolled out later via over-the-air software updates.

[1] Availability of individual apps and content depends on the country. Download and use of the apps require connectivity via BMW Digital Premium or a connection to a WiFi network or mobile smartphone hotspot. App-specific subscriptions are not included in BMW Digital Premium.
[2] The range added after 10 minutes of high-power charging was determined according to ISO12906 in the WLTP cycle. This figure, as well as charging performance, depends on vehicle equipment, charging and battery aging condition, battery temperature, individual driving profile, use of auxiliary consumers, ambient temperature, and the charging power provided at the charging station.
[3] Available from production period 3/2026.
[4] Availability depends on the country.

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market. 

Munich/Las Vegas. In 2026, BMW will expand its BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, built on Amazon’s AI Alexa+ architecture, taking voice interaction between humans and vehicles to a new level.

BMW will become the first car manufacturer to integrate the AI assistant technology into its vehicles, starting with the BMW iX3. This new functionality enables intuitive and intelligent interaction between passengers and the vehicle in a natural dialogue including both the operation of vehicle functions as well as access to information and knowledge beyond the vehicle.

For the first time, users will also be able to ask multiple questions in a single sentence covering both your vehicle’s features and general knowledge topics.
The ability to link the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with Amazon accounts will also make it easier to search for and stream music, retrieve public news, and access a wide range of other content.

"Our partnership with Amazon is based on a shared vision of technological excellence," says Stephan Durach, BMW Group – Senior Vice President Development, Digital Services, Infotainment, Connected Company. "This has resulted in a product that sets new standards in the naturalness of human-vehicle interaction through the use of artificial intelligence. With the addition of Amazon's Alexa+ technology to the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the vehicle becomes an intelligent companion for its users."

“BMW Group has been fantastic to work with as we introduce the first implementation of the new Alexa Custom Assistant. BMW’s advanced technology, combined with the intelligence and conversational capabilities of Alexa+, creates a truly sophisticated in-vehicle experience." says Daniel Rausch, Vice President of Alexa and Echo.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant powered by Amazon Alexa+:  Natural language and free choice of words represent the latest development of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The use of predefined voice commands (intents) is no longer necessary. This means that with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, various requests and queries can be linked together as in a normal human conversation, and follow-up questions can be asked. BMW customers can trust that their vehicle understands them in context and provides the appropriate answers. For example¹⁾, when asked, “Hey BMW what’s the most famous painting there is in the world and where can I find it?” the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will provide the corresponding answer (e.g., Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci, Louvre) and can link this answer directly to other vehicle functions such as navigation. The follow-up request "Take me there!" will then enable direct guidance to the exhibition location of the artwork. The intelligent voice assistant also uses such interactive dialogues to respond even more precisely to future voice commands and anticipate the intent of the question.

The integration of Amazon Alexa+ architecture into the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant represents a technological leap forward that focuses on added value for the customer.

The AI technology used in the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is a Large Language Model (LLM), a generative AI that understands language and is capable of formulating its own responses. 

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with AI technology initially available in Germany and the US. 

The enhanced AI-supported BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will be presented to the public for the first time at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Starting in the second half of 2026, BMW iX3 customers in Germany and the US will be the first to benefit from the advantages of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant powered by Amazon Alexa+. Other markets and model series will follow gradually. The UI/UX of the BMW iX3 is based on the new BMW Panoramic iDrive control concept with BMW Operating System X. 

This integration is an important step on the BMW Group's path to offering this AI technology across the entire BMW model range²⁾. It exemplifies the seamless integration of the "software-defined vehicle" (SDV) into the customer's digital ecosystem.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant has played a central role in the BMW iDrive operating concept since 2018. In 2022, the addition of Amazon Alexa Custom Assistant to the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant led to even more information diversity, faster response times, and better understanding of user requests. Most recently, in 2025, the intelligent voice assistant was expanded for all BMW vehicles with Operating System 9 to include new functions such as music search, news, sports, and general knowledge. The integration of Amazon Alexa+ technology into the next-generation BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant demonstrates the innovative power of the cooperation between the BMW Group and Amazon. 

¹⁾ The video in the press release shows a question in English. For the market launch, the corresponding languages, German and English, will be offered for Germany and the US respectively.

²⁾ Latest in the 2^nd half of 2026, gradually for all BMW models with BMW Operating System 9 and X.

Motorists ‘lose’ up to 565 hours of their lives to car-related admin and maintenance planning.

A poll of 2,000 drivers, of all vehicle makes and models, revealed that on average, they spend the equivalent of a full day each year thinking about service schedules, MOTs, and potential issues - time that could be better spent elsewhere.

Over 6 in 10 (63 per cent) have missed important occasions because they couldn’t get there due to a car-related problem. In fact, drivers reported having to change plans an average of four times a year due to undetected car issues.

The research was commissioned by BMW, whose Proactive Care service is designed to give drivers added confidence and convenience, working quietly in the background to help keep them moving with greater peace of mind. Available on every BMW less than 10 years old, the technology uses real-time vehicle data to alert drivers to potential issues before they become problems, remind them about scheduled maintenance, or offer immediate support following an accident.

To bring this to life and raise awareness of this intelligent technology, BMW used car tyres to create a striking clock visual sculpted in beach sand to symbolise the precious hours that could be reclaimed.

Werner Pagenstert, Customer Support Director at BMW Group UK said: “Time is the ultimate luxury and shouldn’t always be lost to car admin or unplanned maintenance. Proactive Care helps drivers reclaim those 565 lost hours and spend more time doing the things that matter most to them.”

The study also found that nearly half of drivers (46 per cent) say motoring admin takes up valuable headspace. Many still rely on traditional methods to stay organised, with over half (52 per cent) using diaries to manage service schedules, 37 per cent waiting for a dashboard alert before acting, and 37 per cent admitted to actively delaying visits to a garage.

The impact this has on car ownership is significant, with over two thirds (68 per cent) of motorists saying they’d enjoy driving more if they had greater peace of mind.

This comes as the average Brit spends just a tenth of their day doing what they actually want, with the rest absorbed by obligations and life admin. When asked how they would prefer to use time reclaimed from car-related admin, a third (33 per cent) said read more, 32 per cent would prioritise exercise, and a quarter would book themselves a much-needed holiday.

For many, getting away from it all is key: 37 per cent crave more trips and holidays to escape daily pressures, and 1 in 5 admit that holidays are the only time they can fully switch off from everyday stress and life admin. Furthermore, a quarter (24 per cent) said that true relaxation only comes once they’re physically away from their everyday stresses.

To help Brits make the most of their reclaimed time, BMW has partnered with the Seren Collection hotels in Wales to offer one lucky driver a two-night luxury stay for two - complete with a tasting menu experience - and use of an all-electric BMW for the duration of the trip.

Pagenstert continues: “With so many people valuing this quality time away, we wanted to offer drivers the chance to do exactly that, whilst demonstrating the peace of mind that Proactive Care provides.

Entries are open from 24 July to 24 August 2025. Entrants must be aged 21 or over; driving licence restrictions apply. For full terms and conditions and to enter, visit https://www.bmw.co.uk/en/campaigns/proactive-care-competition.html.

To find out more about BMW Proactive Care, please click here.

Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market.

Munich/Las Vegas. The BMW Group presents the driving and user experience of the future at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas. BMW is providing the first opportunity to experience the close-to-production version of the new BMW iDrive – complete with its centrepiece, BMW Panoramic Vision – at the event. The software underpinning it all is the new BMW Operating System X, which acts as the intelligence hub behind the new display and operating concept. The holistic system, with its modern, style-shaping design, will be introduced in all new BMW models from the end of 2025.
“High tech meets highly intuitive operation – a quarter of a century of pioneering work and technological leadership in operating concepts has been channelled into the new BMW Panoramic iDrive,” says Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Development.
“The foundations are provided by the new BMW Operating System X. With this advance, we are giving one of the world’s best and most comprehensive infotainment systems even greater capability and once again setting the industry benchmark in multimodal interaction. Starting with the first series-produced Neue Klasse model at the end of this year, the new BMW Panoramic iDrive will form an integral part of all future BMW models.” 

Four elements, one goal: consistent driver focus in characteristic BMW style.
The new BMW iDrive merges four central elements into a unique display and operating concept.

• BMW Panoramic Vision – a Head-Up Display concept newly developed by BMW for projecting content – reflects visible information from A-pillar to A-pillar onto a black printed surface in the lower section of the windscreen. This information is visible to all occupants.
  The most important driving information is projected directly into the driver's line of sight on the left-hand side of the BMW Panoramic Vision (in left-hand-drive cars), above the steering wheel. The driver can personalise the content in the central and right-hand areas of the BMW Panoramic Vision via the central display. The integration of the BMW Panoramic Vision creates a 3D effect for the driver and passengers.
• The new and optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display above the BMW Panoramic Vision now shows integrated navigation and automated driving information directly in the driver’s field of vision. The content in the BMW Panoramic Vision and BMW 3D Head-Up Display is presented in a neatly coordinated way.
  The level of innovation achieved by the two Head-Up display technologies is underlined by several patent applications from the BMW Group resulting from the development of these projection technologies.
• On the central display with matrix backlight technology, the familiar, updated menu structure with QuickSelect ensures optimal operation of the functions and content by touch. Operation is very easy and convenient, as the free-cut-design display is located close to the steering wheel in an ergonomically ideal position. Selected content (widgets) can be carried over to the BMW Panoramic Vision with a swipe on the central display. As many as six widgets are possible and they can be arranged as desired in the BMW Panoramic Vision.
• The new multifunction steering wheel uses BMW’s shy-tech approach, whereby the relevant buttons are illuminated to highlight available functions. The steering wheel serves as the primary physical control, and its buttons provide active haptic feedback. The buttons have a well-judged, relief-like surface, which makes them extremely easy to locate and means the driver can press them without needing to divert their gaze away from the road.
  The arrangement of the buttons follows the familiar principle of driver assistance functions being positioned on the left-hand side of the steering wheel and content-controlling functions on the right-hand side.
  
  

The combination of these four elements re-interprets BMW’s customary “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” approach, with which BMW sets the benchmark for driver focus and presents a unique form of intuitive, use-friendly and ergonomically optimised operation. The BMW Panoramic iDrive always gives the driver the right information in the right place and at the right time. The system continues the approach of using an optimal combination of analogue and digital controls through the use of switches, buttons, touch and voice control. There are haptic switches for the windscreen wipers, turn signal indicators, exterior mirrors, volume control, gear selectors and window de-icers. Other functions are optimised for operation using touch/voice control or via the multifunction steering wheel, such as telephone functions, media control systems, navigation, assisted driving, personalisation of displays, selection of MyModes and much more besides.

Alongside data-driven learnings on the use of BMW Operating Systems across the global fleet of now more than 22 million connected BMW vehicles, the development phase of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive also included numerous studies conducted in the BMW Group’s usability labs, in which around 3,000 customers were involved. Every decision on the various aspects of the operating logic is therefore based on data and made in a structured manner. Here, the user experience’s extended scope for personalisation has also been aligned with customer preferences and requirements.

BMW Operating System X: intelligent, versatile, fit for the future.
The new BMW Operating System X represents an update of the latest operating system, as used in many BMW models, and is a wholly in-house development from BMW. Like BMW Operating System 9, it is based on an Android Open Source Project (AOSP) software stack. It offers even greater update and upgrade capability than the predecessor system, making it both fit for the future and backwards compatible. It is ready to accommodate additional functions and will keep vehicles equipped with the new BMW Panoramic iDrive at the cutting edge of technology over a long period of time.
“The overall concept of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive with Operating System X has been enabled by a large technological leap forward,” says Stephan Durach Senior Vice President Connected Company BMW Group. “It offers intuitive operation, emotionally engaging experiences and specific personalisation. The new BMW iDrive with Operating System X demonstrates the potential of a software-defined vehicle.”

The expanded intelligence of BMW Operating System X makes it possible to combine the BMW Panoramic Vision, optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display, central display and multifunction steering wheel with one another in such a way that physical and digital experiences merge. For example, an incoming call initially brings up a graphic on the BMW Panoramic Vision. At the same time, a symbol on the relevant steering wheel button that was not previously visible is illuminated in green, indicating the option of taking the call by pressing the button or rejecting it with a swipe on the right-hand side of the steering wheel.
When a navigation destination is entered by touch control or voice command, route guidance alerts are shown on the BMW 3D Head-Up Display and further information on roads and junctions on the BMW Panoramic Vision. A whole map overview can be shown on the central display at any time for broader-scale orientation.

The personalisation of content reaches a new level with BMW Operating System X. The displays in the Panoramic Vision can be adapted to personal preferences. In addition, drivers now also have the option of choosing their own settings for driving attributes such as response and steering characteristics in the My Mode “Personal”. Moreover, pictures chosen by the user can be uploaded as backgrounds for the Central Display and the colourway of the Ambient Lighting and user interface design adjusted to their particular preferences, creating an even more personalised driving experience.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant responds in the accustomed way to the prompt “Hey BMW” or can be called up by pressing the respective button on the multifunction steering wheel. The capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant are being constantly enhanced and will be taken to a whole new level for the Neue Klasse through the integration of Large Language Models (LLM). The use of this technology is focused initially on navigation, allowing the customer to give more extensive spoken commands using natural language: for example: “Take me to a charging station which is close to a food store.” At technology partner Amazon’s booth at CES 2025, visitors can get an initial impression of these capabilities using a beta version of this build of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant in a BMW X3. 

As with the current infotainment systems from BMW, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can – if the driver desires – make suggestions proactively based on user behaviour. This intelligence expands further with BMW Operating System X. In relevant situations, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant highlights driver assistance systems, which are rarely used by the driver. As a kind of reminder, the system suggests activating Sport Mode on suitable routes if the driver has already activated Sport Mode independently beforehand. If the driver doesn’t respond to or ignores these proactive suggestions several times, the system learns and refrains from making suggestions from then on. 

BMW Operating System X carries over the scope for integration of third-party apps from the previous infotainment generation. As things stand, the BMW ConnectedDrive Store offers more than 60 apps worldwide for BMW Operating System 9. The selection will continue to grow, e.g. with productivity apps such as video conferencing service Zoom.

Design and technology for a unique user and driving experience.
The new BMW Panoramic iDrive is scalable and will be integrated into all new BMW models – across all vehicle segments and with all drive system technologies – from the end of 2025.

The driving experience takes centre stage. The driver should feel at ease and have full control over the vehicle. This principle is reflected in the design of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive. Particular attention is paid to the details: the user interface has been designed as intuitively and adaptively as possible to ensure seamless interaction. The result is a holistic experience enhanced by a harmonious combination of sound, light and innovative design. Every journey becomes a special moment of connection between human and vehicle.
“Technology and customer preferences are changing more quickly than ever. The design of digital experiences and sound is playing an ever more important role,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The new BMW Panoramic iDrive not only makes our vehicles smarter and more user-friendly, it also enables much more extensive personalisation, which turns every new BMW into a car that is very much the user’s own.”
Another element in the holistic experience provided by the BMW Panoramic iDrive is the new HypersonX sound experience in the Neue Klasse models. Developed by the BMW Group Sound Design Studio, it comprises 43 sound signals and special driving sounds for Personal Mode and Sport Mode. The multi-dimensional spectrum adapts the sounds precisely to the driving situation at hand and, in so doing, creates an emotional interaction between the driver and their BMW.

Over 50,000 BMW and MINI drivers in the UK can now enjoy their favourite BBC podcasts, radio and music more conveniently than ever, as BMW and MINI become the first car brands to integrate the BBC Sounds app directly into their vehicle’s built-in app store.

Previously listeners needed a smartphone to access BBC Sounds via Android Auto^™ or Apple CarPlay^®. Now drivers of selected models^* with BMW Operating System 9 or MINI Operating System 9 and a subscription to BMW Digital Premium or the MINI Connected Package, which enables unlimited data connectivity, can stream content from the BBC Sounds app running directly in the vehicle operating system.

Once installed in the car, drivers and passengers can enjoy a personalised experience by signing into the BBC Sounds app with their BBC account, synchronising playback history across all their devices. For instance, if a listener were to start a true crime podcast, such as the new series of Bad People on their smartphone, they can seamlessly continue where they left off when they get into their car.

After it is downloaded, the BBC Sounds app is fully integrated into the vehicle’s user interface and can be easily accessed via the All Apps (BMW) or Media Selection (MINI) menu screens. Additionally, data usage for streaming BBC Sounds content is included in the connectivity provided by the BMW Digital Premium or MINI Connected Package subscription.

Today, over 50,000 BMW and MINI vehicles on the road in the UK support the new BBC Sounds in-car app, with this figure expected to rise to around 150,000 by the end of 2025.

Andrew Furse, BMW Product Operations Manager, said, “We’re proud to make it easier than ever for BMW and MINI customers to enjoy their favourite BBC content on the move. This latest integration complements the wide range of apps already available in our vehicles and underscores our commitment to delivering a seamless in-car entertainment experience.”


Ends

^*Only compatible with vehicles powered by BMW/MINI Operating System 9.
Vehicles currently compatible: BMW 1 Series (2024 onwards), BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé (2025 onwards), BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (2024 onwards), BMW X1/iX1 (2023 onwards), BMW X2/iX2 (2024 onwards), BMW X3 (2024 onwards) and all MINI models (2024 onwards).

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Email: Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market.

Paris. Parallel to the market launch of the new BMW 1 Series, the new BMW X3 and the new BMW M5, the BMW Group will present the next steps in its unchanged product strategy at the Mondial de l'Auto Paris 2024. The focus is on the world premieres of the first all-electric MINI John Cooper Works models and the first joint motor show appearance of the latest concept studies of the BMW Neue Klasse, which will go into series production in 2025.

“The BMW Group is demonstrating its pioneering role in electric mobility at the Mondial de l'Auto Paris with a cross-segment range of electrified vehicles. Thanks to our attractive BEV product portfolio, we are able to grow our all-electric sales even in a demanding market environment. In the European market, we were even able to gain market share with the BMW brand,” says Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Customers, Brands, Sales.

What BMW M is to BMW, JCW is to MINI. 
The new all-electric MINI John Cooper Works models.
With the world premiere of the all-electric MINI John Cooper Works Electric and the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman, the brand's long racing history is transferred to the here and now with innovative power. The two models effortlessly transfer motorsport expertise from the race track to the road. In addition to the exclusive, sporty design

and optimised aerodynamic driving characteristics, MINI fans can also look forward to the brand's hallmark agile handling. Click [here] for more information.

The roll-out of electrification to the John Cooper Works brand within MINI transmits another strong signal on how the BMW Group is committed to electric driving as a strategic direction.

At the same time, the Mondial de l'Auto Paris 2024 marks the ideal starting point for intensified communication in the further ramp up for BMW Neue Klasse, due for launch in 2025.

First joint appearance of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse and BMW Vision Neue Klasse X.
BMW is showing two Neue Klasse Vision Vehicles in Paris, which provide an outlook on the wide range of BMW's future model portfolio.
The BMW Vision New Class is a sporty electric sedan for the premium mid-range. The BMW Vision New Class X transfers the philosophy and technology of the future generation of vehicles to the Sports Activity Vehicle segment.

"With the two vision cars for Neue Klasse we are showing how we are going to change the look & feel of the BMW brand. Many aspects of our cars will be completely new and yet we believe that the Neue Klasse will reflect the very essence of the BMW brand", says Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design.

Both vehicles are characterized by a clear, reduced design language. In the interior, the next generation of BMW iDrive enables intuitive interaction between driver and vehicle. The combination of BMW Panoramic Vision, 3D Head-Up Display, Central Display and the new multifunction steering wheel redefine the BMW driver orientation. Click [here] for more information.

The new BMW iX2 features in-car entertainment highlight UNO® Car Party! And Paramount+.
With UNO® Car Party! in the BMW iX2, the BMW Group is showing the next in-car gaming highlight. Since the end of August 2024, the game has already been available in over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles via the AirConsole platform. In addition, it was only at the beginning of October that the BMW Group brought the popular subscription streaming service Paramount+ into the vehicle, offering subscribers access to a wide range of blockbusters, new originals and hit series such as Star Trek Discovery. Customers have access to in-car entertainment highlights in their vehicles with BMW and MINI Operating System 9 in conjunction with BMW Digital Premium or the MINI Connected Package*.

*Paramount+ subscription is not part of BMW Digital Premium/MINI Connected Package.

In addition to the outlook for the BMW Neue Klasse and new digital services, also hydrogen technology is key topic at the Mondial de l'Auto Paris 2024, as a further expression of the BMW Group's open technology drive strategy.

BMW will launch its first hydrogen-powered production model in 2028. 
After successfully testing the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet worldwide, the BMW Group is now preparing for series production of vehicles with hydrogen drive systems in 2028. The series production models will be integrated into BMW’s existing portfolio. Hydrogen is recognized as a promising future energy carrier of the future, actingas an effective storage medium for renewable energy sources, helping to balance supply and demand and enabling a more stable and reliable integration of renewables into the energy grid.

Click [here] for more information.

The BMW Group is also showing the complete all-electric BMW and MINI product portfolio at Mondial de l'Auto Paris 2024. It now consists of more than 15 models, which cover all major market segments.

The motor show presentation is rounded off with the electric two-wheelers from BMW Motorrad for urban areas. Click [here] for more information.

The BMW Group stand at Mondial de l'Automobile Paris 2024 covers an area of 1,300 square metres. The fair is open to trade visitors on 14 October and to the general public from 15 to 20 October 2024.

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market.

Munich. The number of BMW Remote Software Upgrades successfully installed by the BMW Group passed the 10 million mark at the end of September. These upgrades are transmitted over the air to the vehicles and then launched by the customer.

“Today, BMW is able to deliver over-the-air updates to more than nine million vehicles worldwide. And we can update the entire vehicle software in this way,” states Christoph Grote, Senior Vice President Electronics and Software BMW Group. “This capability clearly demonstrates our expertise in the field of software-defined vehicles. The fact that ten million Remote Software Upgrades have now been carried out in vehicles underlines how popular this form of innovation is with our customers.”

BMW sent out its first over-the-air upgrade five years ago. This functionality has since been extended to all brands, model series and drive types. The arrival of the new Operating System 9 means that MINI models can also be updated remotely, as can the Rolls-Royce Spectre. “The Remote Software Upgrade facility allows us to keep improving our vehicles without the need for a workshop visit,” Grote continues. “This brings greater comfort and safety for our customers and also offers them new features and functional improvements from time to time.”

Indeed, the BMW Remote Software Upgrade technology has enabled numerous new functions and functional improvements to be rolled out to customer vehicles. In addition to comfort and safety features, the updates have also benefited infotainment, driving, drive system and driver assistance capability. A recent customer study confirmed the importance of regular updates for product enhancement.

The BMW Group is set to build on its leading position in this area over the coming weeks and months with a series of further upgrades including attractive model-specific features such as a Silent Mode¹⁾ and a new Curve Ahead View²⁾ in the Head-Up Display for ‘seeing around bends’ virtually.

Connectivity is turning cars into smart mobility partners.
The BMW Group is a pioneering force in the field of connected driving. BMW has set the standard for the rest of the industry with over 22 million connected vehicles worldwide to date. Functions that have been purpose developed for electric vehicles – such as "Max Range" for maximising operating range and charging-optimised route planning – provide innovative solutions for everyday driving. With the introduction of digital premium vehicle features of this kind, the BMW Group proves time and again that compelling digital innovation and customer centricity are firmly embedded in the company’s DNA.

¹⁾ Available for models with BMW Operating System 8.5 or 9 in conjunction with BMW Digital Premium
²⁾ Available for models with BMW Operating System 9 and Head-Up Display in conjunction with BMW Digital Premium

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.  

Mattel, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAT), AirConsole, and BMW Group announced today that Mattel’s classic card game UNO^TM will be revealed next week for in-car gaming in Cologne, Germany at gamescom 2024, the world’s largest, leading event for video games. Visitors to the AirConsole booth (Hall 10.1, Stand B028 - C029) will be the first to experience UNO^® Car Party! in the new BMW X3, which tailors the world’s #1 card game* for in-car gaming. The game will roll out via the AirConsole platform to over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles over-the-air on August 21^st.

“We continue to increase the value of the overall digital experience for our customers,” said Stephan Durach, Senior Vice President of the BMW Group Development Connected Company and Technical Operations. “Our partners AirConsole and Mattel are helping make in-car gaming into a new social experience, and I am thrilled to offer a family-favorite game like UNO for this exciting innovation.”

Mattel, AirConsole and BMW Group have transformed UNO into a playable connected game in a brand-new environment: the car. Whether a family is at rest during a road trip or a group of friends stop to figure out their next move, stationary drivers can use AirConsole’s unique game controller system to connect any passenger to the game using their personal devices. Up to four players can experience the game that brings people together through its simple, universal gameplay that transcends languages and cultures. Vehicles must be in park to enable gameplay.

“UNO beautifully illustrates the strengths of AirConsole with a game accessible to everyone, a bespoke integration to the car hardware and our phone-controlled gaming experience,” said Anthony Cliquot, CEO of AirConsole. “Each player can secretly see their own cards on their phone while playing on the infotainment system of the car. This is an experience that would be impossible to achieve using only touchscreen or bluetooth controls on the infotainment system.”

"UNO is perfect for in-car gaming because it's highly engaging and brings people together,” said Erika Winterholler, Head of Business Development, Digital Gaming at Mattel. “Its simple rules are easy to learn and endlessly captivating, making it ideal for both short pit stops and extended play sessions. UNO’s social nature turns every journey into a fun experience, and we're so excited to bring this spirit to consumers in an innovative way with our partners at BMW and AirConsole."

Since 2022, the partnership between the BMW Group and AirConsole has been pioneering in-car gaming, bringing intuitive and innovative gameplay to BMW vehicles through the AirConsole platform. Its selection of games has grown since the introduction of AirConsole, with popular games such as “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”, which launched as an in-car world premiere in collaboration between Sony Pictures Television, BMW Group and AirConsole. AirConsole is available in current models with BMW / MINI Operating System 9 in combination with BMW Digital Premium / MINI Connected Package and with BMW Operating System 8.5** in combination with BMW ConnectedDrive Professional.

Over the past five decades, UNO has maintained its legacy as a game with wildly unpredictable fun, spirited competition, and inclusivity. UNO continues to surprise and delight fans through innovative offerings from top-line physical products, mobile games, live gaming events and premium collective card games; inclusive gameplay through products like UNO Braille and culturally relevant product from fan-created UNO memes to the UNO Artiste series featuring the artwork of artists from yesterday and today.

*Source: Circana/Retail Tracking Service/G10/JAN-DEC 2023/Games Excl Trade Card Game Subsegment/Projected USD

**Available in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, USA. In Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Thailand, South Africa, India, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia only available with Personal eSIM and BMW Operating System 8.5. Not available in BMW 2 Series Coupe, 3 Series and 4 Series.

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.   

The My BMW App and MINI App are being continuously expanded and improved, with a total of five updates carried out a year. The apps are growing increasingly important for customers, especially when it comes to electric mobility and vehicle charging.

Decision-making tool for the switch to electric mobility: Electric Vehicle Analysis.
The new Electric Vehicle Analysis function allows customers who drive a BMW with a combustion engine to simulate how well an all-electric BMW would suit their personal driving profile. To carry out the simulation, the customer selects an electric BMW model as an alternative vehicle in the app. Once the combustion-engined model has made at least 200 journeys and covered a distance of 2,000 kilometres (approx. 1,250 miles), the analysis clearly shows the number of journeys that could have been completed with the selected electric vehicle on a single charge. This is intended to combat the range anxiety and concerns about the everyday practicality of all-electric vehicles that are still prevalent* today. For the simulation, the app uses the real-world driving data for the combustion-engined model in question, as generated by the My Trips function. Thanks to this individual database, Electric Vehicle Analysis is able to provide the customer with a sound basis for deciding which drive type to choose in their next vehicle.The function will be upgraded in future to expand the reach of the analysis. Evaluations of the time vehicles are not in use and of long-distance journeys will be added, combined with information on charging facilities and the time required for charging. To use Electric Vehicle Analysis, customers must have a BMW with a combustion engine and BMW Operating System 7 or later and also consent to their driving data being used for the purpose of the analysis.

“Electric vehicles can already be incorporated perfectly into the daily routine of many customers – it’s just that the majority of them haven’t tried it yet,” says Dirk Wiedmann, Senior Vice President Sales Steering and Strategy, Digitalisation. “Our app’s Electric Vehicle Analysis helps our customers to make an informed judgement in their choice of drive system.”

New functions for seamless interaction between vehicle and app.
The latest update introduced a series of features designed to produce a seamless route-planning experience when switching between vehicle and app. Options such as avoiding motorways, ferries or toll roads can now also be set in the app, for example, and are always automatically synchronised in both directions. In addition to this, the My BMW / MINI App with charging-optimised route planning for all-electric vehicles now also makes it possible to add individual charging stops, and these are then synchronised with the vehicle. The apps also notify the user of facilities in the vicinity of charging stations, such as restaurants, cafés, banks and supermarkets, complete with detailed information on them.

New Charging Wallet for managing charging tariffs.
Drivers of electric vehicles are now able to select and manage preferred charging tariffs from a large number of providers in the app’s new Charging Wallet. When the app user selects a charging station, the applicable prices for the selected charging tariffs are shown, depending on availability, allowing the user to choose the cheapest tariff for them.

Wide-reaching app functions are being continuously improved and expanded – with high levels of user satisfaction. 
13 million customers around the world use the My BMW App and MINI App, with one million of these based in Germany alone. Both apps have an average rating of 4.8 stars in the App Store.
The apps keep drivers informed of the current status of their BMW or MINI, as well as allowing them to lock and unlock the doors, switch on the climate control, send destination addresses to the navigation system, or use the Remote 3D View feature to call up an image of the vehicle’s immediate vicinity or its interior. They can go to the Services & Store tab to check out the available digital services or obtain ConnectedDrive Upgrades. If the BMW or MINI Digital Key Plus has been set up, previously stored manoeuvres and parking functions can be carried out from outside the car while standing nearby.

Servicing and maintenance requirements can also be managed from the two apps. For example, users receive a push notification if their car needs to be serviced and can make an appointment directly in the app. The app also provides support during the service process, including check-in, service videos, status tracking and payment. Accident and breakdown assistance can likewise be accessed quickly using the app.

The availability of individual functions varies according to the vehicle specification and country involved.

* cf. for example statista survey on “reasons against buying an all-electric vehicle”

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. The BMW Group is unveiling a new data- and AI-driven offering in customer service. Proactive Care includes new tools and offerings that allow the vehicle to identify existing and predictable service requirements itself, so that in many cases it can anticipate the customer’s needs and proactively offer solutions. The first applications for existing and upcoming vehicle generations are live. These will be continuously enhanced with further innovative functionalities in the coming years.

More comfort for BMW customers.
BMW vehicles have already been sending service-related data directly from the vehicle to the BMW dealer following confirmation by the customer for several years, and in this way enabling targeted interaction between customers and BMW dealers. Up to now, it was still the customer who had to approach their BMW partner themselves – now BMW is proactively approaching the customer. The dealer service requirements contained in the portfolio are constantly being extended and, where it makes sense, augmented with the benefits provided by the broad field of artificial intelligence. The result is the next stage of evolution in the area of connected vehicles and customer service.

What benefits does Proactive Care offer when servicing is required?
Digital tyre diagnosis, fault messages in the vehicle, service requirements – custom proposals for solutions are made possible by data analysis and the recording of customer preferences. The digital-first approach applies here: depending on what is needed, the customer is notified via a message in the My BMW app, via an in-car notification, via e-mail, by their preferred retailer or by a telephone call from Roadside Assistance. Proactive Care improves the customer’s service experience in the long term – from self-help tips (e.g. how to solve a problem via a Remote Software Upgrade), to flexible support in order to guarantee mobility, or by suggesting the right dealer in the global dealer network if a visit to the workshop cannot be avoided. Online appointment scheduling and a personalised service video including online payment handling are just some of the possible options.

Quantum leap in the service promise and availability.
Proactive Care is available worldwide for all BMW models with BMW Operating System 7 or later (as of version 07/2019) All customers need is an active BMW ConnectedDrive contract, and to register their vehicle in the My BMW app or in the My BMW portal with their BMW ID and store their contact details.* In order for data collection to be possible, the customer must accept the Privacy Policy in the vehicle, enable push notifications in the My BMW app and consent to be contacted by BMW AG or their BMW Service Partner. The scope of the work carried out, the costs for this work and when the vehicle should be ready for collection are available to the customer in a transparent manner at all times.

Data protection and transparency are paramount for BMW.
The BMW Group attaches great importance to the confidentiality and integrity of personal data. Data protection and data security have the highest priority for the BMW Group. BMW has committed itself to the collection of data for specific purposes. This means that data is collected intelligently only for dedicated services. The BMW Group adheres to the current legal situation as per the General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union and complementary national laws, such as the German Federal Data Protection Act. This also applies to the use of systems installed in the vehicle.

With Proactive Care, BMW is offering a completely new service experience for its customers, and placing customer satisfaction even more firmly at the centre of what it does.

*The service scope of “Proactive Care” may vary depending on the delivery country.

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. With the new BMW iDrive, the BMW Group is bringing a display and operating concept to the next vehicle generation which enables a completely new intuitive interaction paradigm between the driver and vehicle. The next development leap will follow in the Neue Klasse from 2025. The future generation of BMW iDrive will transform the vehicle into a digital experience space. With BMW Panoramic Vision, a new multifunction steering wheel, the new central display and a new BMW 3D head-up display as central display and operating elements, the quintessential BMW user experience is being reinterpreted in all Neue Klasse models.

Logical progression of BMW iDrive with new technologies.
The next technological leap enables a modern, characteristically BMW interior design with a focus on touch and advanced voice interaction. BMW iDrive in the Neue Klasse is characterised by four central elements.The new BMW Panoramic Vision provides a fresh take on the quintessential BMW driver orientation and content for all passengers. BMW Panoramic Vision is based on a completely new head-up display technology. It projects information at a height perfectly matched to the driver across the entire width of the windscreen. BMW Panoramic Vision is complemented by the new BMW 3D head-up display for active driving situations, which displays the required information, such as assisted driving or traffic guidance, with high precision as 3D animations in the driver’s line of sight. With the new multifunction steering wheel, the display contents of BMW Panoramic Vision and the BMW 3D head-up display can be individually controlled according to the principle eyes on the road, hands on the wheel. Operation is convenient and precise via the steering wheel buttons, and is enhanced by the active haptic feedback and multilayer technology. BMW iDrive in the Neue Klasse focuses on the new central display with characteristically BMW styling and intuitive touch function. The matrix backlight technology of the new central display ensures a high resolution for the displays, vibrant colours and strong contrast, regardless of the specific light conditions.

The future BMW iDrive will continue to feature the QuickSelect concept introduced in 2023. The system in the Neue Klasse is based on a highly integrated software architecture and uses the next generation of the BMW Operating System. The vehicle’s smart connectivity with the BMW Cloud as well as the customer’s digital ecosystem creates an immersive user experience and brings a new dimension to the human-car interaction. It transforms the vehicles of the Neue Klasse into digital experience spaces.

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. As one of the pioneers in the use of a smartphone as a digital vehicle key since 2018, BMW is pressing ahead with the development and popularisation of its BMW Digital Key feature, which is available to iPhone users today. In line with this goal, the premium car manufacturer will introduce the BMW Digital Key Plus, a convenient and secure way to unlock and start your car without taking your iPhone out of your bag or pocket. This latest incarnation of the service is based on Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, the technology found on the U1 chip of iPhone. The BMW Digital Key Plus feature will be first launched with the all-electric BMW iX for iPhone. 

Ultra-Wideband technology for enhanced convenience and security. 
The new, additional features enabled by the BMW Digital Key Plus are based on Ultra-Wideband technology. This is a short-range, high-bandwidth digital radio technology that is characterized by an exceptionally precise localization with the greatest possible security. UWB’s precision also ensures that relay attacks, where the radio signal is jammed or intercepted, are not possible. Apple and BMW have been working closely with the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) to establish the Digital Key specification 3.0 for UWB, providing a global standard for the automotive industry.

BMW is once again setting the standard for the Sports Activity Vehicle with the new fourth-generation X5. Combining an elegant and strong design with supreme on-and off-road ability, the new X5 has an even greater blend of premium luxury performance and comfort. It’s a winning formula with previous generations selling in excess of 2.2 million examples since the first X5 launched in 1999.

On sale in the UK from June 2018, the all-new X5 demonstrates the latest BMW advances in technology, design and safety, with the highest level of autonomous capability yet seen on a BMW X model. A choice of TwinPower and M Performance petrol and diesel engines are matched to a new eight-speed Steptronic gearbox and the latest version of xDrive for maximum comfort, capability and performance.

Design.
With a wheelbase 42mm longer than its predecessor, an increase in vehicle length of 36mm, an extra 66mm of width and a 19mm increase in height, the new BMW X5 has both an imposing appearance and generous levels of space for passengers and their luggage.

Distinctive design features mark out the xLine and M Sport model variants of the new X5. The xLine model adds kidney grille bars in aluminium matt, roof rails and side window surrounds in satin Aluminium, plus other accents in Pearl-effect Chrome. M Sport specification, meanwhile, sees the wheel arch trim, bumper trim, rear underguard and side skirts painted in body colour, plus extra-large air intakes at the front end, aluminium matt kidney grille bars. The roof rails, side window surrounds and other trim elements in high-gloss black flag up the dynamic potential of the SAV.

The new BMW X5 comes as standard with 19-inch light-alloy wheels on the xLine model, 20-inch M star-spoke light-alloy wheels on the M Sport model and exclusive 22-inch V-spoke alloy wheels on the M Performance model.  Further variants in 20 to 22-inch formats are available as options. 

Powertrain and driving experience. 
There will be one petrol and two diesel units available from the latest generation of engines. The BMW X5 M50d is powered by a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with four turbochargers. A six-cylinder inline unit powers the BMW X5 xDrive40i and BMW X5 xDrive30d. All engines channel their power through an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, while BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive is on hand to ensure that power is translated into secure progress – on or off road.

The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package for the petrol engines comprises turbochargers, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. On the diesel side, the raft of technological measures at work includes turbochargers and common-rail direct injection with piezo injectors. The result is instantaneous pulling power and sporty performance credentials with exemplary fuel consumption and emissions. All model variants comply with the requirements of the EU6d-TEMP emissions standard. The system of emission control for the petrol engines includes a gasoline particulate filter, while the diesel models boast BMW BluePerformance technology comprising a particulate filter, an oxidation catalyst, a NOx adsorption catalyst and an SCR catalyst with AdBlue injection.

The power unit fitted in the new BMW X5 xDrive40i enjoys free-revving ability and eager response. The 3.0-litre unit employs a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct petrol injection technology with a maximum pressure of 350 bar. The straight-six generates its maximum output of 340hp, while the peak torque of 450Nm is available. The new BMW X5 xDrive40i completes the zero to 62mph sprint in just 5.5 seconds. Fuel consumption averages 33.2mpg and CO₂ emissions are 193g/km.

The performance of the new BMW X5 M50d is provided by the potent engine at work under its bonnet. From its 3.0-litre displacement the BMW M Performance model’s six-cylinder in-line unit delivers a peak output of 400hp and generates maximum torque of 760Nm.

These figures are possible thanks to a multi-stage turbocharging system composed of two high-pressure and two low-pressure turbochargers delivering over 450Nm of torque. In normal driving situations, both low-pressure turbochargers and one of the two high-pressure units are permanently active. The second high-pressure turbocharger only joins in when the engine speed tops 2,500rpm. Under hard acceleration from idle, flaps are adjusted so the pair of low-pressure turbochargers can be swiftly bypassed, thereby generating maximum charge pressure with even less delay. To boost the turbocharging system’s efficiency, exhaust gas recirculation is employed for both the high-pressure and low-pressure stages and the common-rail direct injection system capable of generating pressures in excess of 2,500 bar. The new BMW X5 M50d darts to 62mph from rest in 5.2 seconds yet it succeeds in posting a combined fuel consumption of 41.5mpg and CO₂ emissions of 179g/km.

The new BMW X5 xDrive30d is also powered by a straight-six diesel engine, this time with displacement of 3.0 litres and featuring a single turbocharger with variable inlet geometry. The common-rail direct injection system propels fuel into the combustion chambers at up to 2,500 bar. Maximum output of 265hp, while offering 620Nm of torque.  Capable of reaching the 62mph mark from rest in 6.5 seconds, the new X5 xDrive30d returns combined fuel consumption of just  470mpg, equating to CO₂ emissions of 158g/km*.

*Electronically limited

** All figures are provisional

All of the engines available for the new BMW X5 come with a new, improved version of the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, whose wider ratio spread and new control electronics help to increase the powertrain’s overall efficiency. New torsion dampers reduce rotational irregularities and converter slip for superior shift comfort, while optimised hydraulic control enables even 

Efficiency-enhanced xDrive all-wheel drive.  
The task of maximising traction, agility and directional stability in the new BMW X5 falls to the latest generation of the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which is now able to split drive torque between the front and rear wheels with even greater precision and speed on demand.

The new xDrive system also offers a rear-biased set-up for those occasions when the driver adopts a particularly dynamic approach. The electronically controlled rear differential lock (available on M Performance models and/or in conjunction with the Off-Road package) gives the handling an even sportier edge. Governed by the Driving Stability Control (DSC) system, the locking function for the rear differential improves traction and power transmission when driving over loose ground or on road surfaces offering differing levels of grip for the left-rear and right-rear wheels. The locking effect is produced by means of an electric motor and allows as much as 1,500Nm of drive torque to be redirected from the faster-turning wheel to the slower-turning wheel.

New chassis systems.  
The design principle underpinning the chassis – based on a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle – is complemented by the standard Dynamic Damper Control system, whose electronically controlled dampers sharpen the car’s handling dynamics at the same time as increasing ride and suspension comfort. The driver can select from two performance maps for a more comfort-oriented or sportier driving style, using the Driving Experience Control switch. Standard specification for the new BMW X5 M50d includes model-specific kinematics and elastokinematics for the wheel suspension, individual spring and damper tuning, plus 22-inch M light-alloy wheels. This bespoke configuration increases the BMW M Performance model’s agility and steering precision, enables faster cornering and optimises its transitional responses.

An array of chassis systems available in a BMW X model make it possible to boost the off-road performance, sportiness or comfort of the new BMW X5. Adaptive M suspension Professional with active roll stabilisation and Integral Active Steering endows the car with exceptionally agile and dynamic driving qualities. The roll stabilisation system employs electric swivel motors to enable remarkably swift and precise compensation of body roll under dynamic cornering. Integral Active Steering (also available as an individual option) is also operated electromechanically. By turning the rear wheels in either the same direction as the front wheels or the opposite direction – depending on the vehicle speed – it optimises cornering agility, ensures effortless lane changes and helps the vehicle to dart through city traffic.

The two-axle air suspension system is standard on both the BMW X5 xDrive30d and X5 xDrive40i models. It is controlled individually for each wheel using an electrically driven compressor with pressure reservoir, enabling it to balance out an unevenly loaded vehicle. Working in tandem with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, the vehicle load registered by its sensors can be factored into braking calculations. When the SPORT driving mode is engaged or the vehicle’s speed exceeds 86mph the ride height is automatically lowered by 20mm. The driver can also adjust the body’s ground clearance for off-road driving, for example by pushing a button in the cockpit. It can be raised in two stages to a maximum of 40mm above the standard setting. Another button in the luggage compartment activates a loading mode that lowers the vehicle by 40mm. The desired vehicle ride height can even be set with the engine switched off and the optional BMW Display Key can also be used to access this function.

Customers can also specify an Off-Road package. Offered for the first time in a BMW X model, the package includes underguard elements at the front and rear of the vehicle, along with the two-axle air suspension and electronically controlled rear differential lock. The driver can activate the ideal settings for off-roading including the vehicle’s ride height, the xDrive system, the accelerator response, the transmission control, and the DSC system’s corrective inputs in preparation for driving on a range of surfaces, such as sand, rock, gravel or snow.  Available for all model variants apart from the BMW X5 M50d.

Interior and equipment.  
The fully-digital instrument cluster and the Control Display share the same graphics and design, with the centre console hosting the Controller, the newly designed transmission selector lever and all other driving-related controls. A similarly new-look control panel for the heating and air conditioning is also on hand and the light functions in the new X5 are likewise operated using buttons.

The carefully selected materials in the interior include the new Vernasca leather variant for the standard leather upholstery. Like the optional BMW Individual extended Merino leather trim, it is available in four colours. The new BMW X5 is fitted as standard with electrically adjustable and heated sports seats.  Customers can also specify optional multifunctional front comfort seats, including massage function and seat ventilation within the Comfort/Comfort Plus packages.

M Sport models also includes an M sports steering wheel, BMW Individual headliner in Anthracite, M-specific pedals, driver’s footrest and piping on the seats, plus exclusive interior trim in Aluminium Tetragon.

Other new features on board the BMW X5 include optional four-zone air conditioning system and Skylounge panoramic glass roof, which includes 15,000 graphic patterns to generate a display reminiscent of a starlit sky. The colour scheme of this atmospheric light show can be adapted as desired. The optional ambient lighting includes the Welcome Light Carpet – which illuminates the entry area to the car when the doors are unlocked or opened – and Dynamic Interior Light, which emits pulsating light signals in pre-defined situations: they are activated in the lining of a door or doors opened while the engine is running and in the instrument panel when a phone call is incoming.

The Ambient Air package provides air ionisation and infuses the interior with eight individually selectable scents, and a luxurious audio experience is offered by the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with 20 speakers and 1,500-watt output (expected to be available from 12/2018).

The optional Rear-seat entertainment Professional system comprises a pair of 10.2-inch full-HD 1080p touchscreen displays, a Blu-ray-compatible DVD player, two USB ports, an HDMI socket and two headphone jacks. The rear-seat passengers can use both their own media sources and those available in the front compartment. A navigation map and BMW ConnectedDrive services can also be accessed in the rear seats.

The new BMW X5 can now also be specified with heated and cooledcupholders  in the centre console , while the optional CraftedClarity glass application for selected controls bring an all-new flourish to the interior of the X5. This exclusive design feature has been developed for the transmission selector lever, the Controller, the start/stop button and the volume control button for the audio system.

As well as increased levels of comfort and exclusivity, the new BMW X5 now also offers enhanced functionality. Folding down the 40 : 20 : 40 split rear seat backrest increases boot capacity from  650 litres to a maximum of  1,870 litres. The new BMW X5 also has a two-section tailgate for ease of loading. If the optional Comfort Access is specified, both sections can be opened and closed electronically and hands-free. In addition, the boot cover now lowers electrically into the load compartment floor and anti-slip luggage rails helps ensure cargo remains stationary whilst the car is in motion.

If the optional third row of seats is specified customers benefit from electric fore-and-aft adjustment of the second row seats. A control panel in the boot can be used to slide the second-row seats forwards or backwards and fold down the backrests of the second and third rows. 

Driver assistance systems: Another significant step towards automated driving.
Available as an option, the new Driving Assistant Professional package comprises Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go function, which is capable of braking the vehicle to a standstill and sending it on its way again automatically. For greater convenience in stop-start traffic, the period between stopping and automatically moving off has been extended up to 30 seconds. Speed restrictions identified by the Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Info display can be incorporated into the automatic cruise control system with variations of up to 9mph.  This pack also contains the Steering and lane control assistant as well as the Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection. Another component of the system is the evasion aid, which can help avoid collisions with vehicles or pedestrians suddenly appearing in the driver’s path. As soon as an evasive manoeuvre corresponding to such a scenario is detected, the system assists the driver with steering inputs to direct the vehicle into a clear adjacent lane. Other constituents of this pack includes:

• Lane change warning
• Crossing Traffic Warning rear
• Rear-end collision warning
• Speed Limit Information incl. no passing info and preview
  
  

The Parking Assistant is another standard feature within in the new BMW X5. It enables automatic selection and use of parallel parking spaces. These parking spaces are detected by ultrasonic sensors as the vehicle passes them. The Parking Assistant function is activated at the touch of a button on the centre console. The system then takes care of the acceleration, braking, steering and gear changes necessary to manoeuvre into the space.  Parking assist also includes Reversing Assistant - a further illustration of BMW’s ongoing progress towards automated driving.

This function offers a level of assistance – for leaving a parking space or manoeuvring in a confined area – currently unmatched by other vehicles. The Reversing Assistant controls the steering to manoeuvre the vehicle along a path recently negotiated forwards. This system makes reversing for a distance of up to 50 metres a simple task in the new BMW X5. The driver just has to operate the accelerator and brakes and monitor the surrounding area. The steering movements made during the vehicle’s last forward manoeuvre are stored by the system and retained, even for longer periods. This means the Reversing Assistant can be used to manoeuvre the new BMW X5 backwards out of a parking position that it drove into forwards the preceding day.

The driver enjoys ideal all-round visibility, thanks to both the rear-view camera and the Top View, Panorama View and 3D View functions of Parking Assistant Plus, which create a 360-degree image of the vehicle and its surroundings in the Control Display. In addition, drivers can use the Remote 3D View feature to access a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and surroundings on a smartphone. 

BMW Connected and ConnectedDrive: Cutting-edge, digital and seamlessly integrated into modern life.
The BMW Live Cockpit Professional in the new BMW X5 combines a new display and control concept and the ultimate in connectivity to create a superb all-round package. The latest-generation display and control concept comprises a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel with a 12.3-inch screen and a Control Display also measuring 12.3-inches across.

The system runs the latest BMW Operating System 7.0, and has a cutting-edge, fully digital design. The new graphics display in the instrument cluster now leaves enough room for a part-view of the navigation map. The main menu in the Control Display is now spread over up to ten pages, each showing two to four tiles with live content. The intuitive multimodal interface has also been further improved and allows the choice of touch control using the Control Display, the familiar iDrive Touch Controller, controls on the steering wheel, voice control or BMW gesture control. Also included in BMW Live Cockpit Professional are an adaptive navigation system, a hard-drive-based multimedia system with music file memory of up to 50GB and two USB ports, plus Bluetooth and WiFi interfaces.

For the first time, a selection of digital services will also be combined together available under the guise of the Connected Package Professional. This package offered as standard on all BMW X5 models increases the levels of connectivity and makes it easier for customers to take best advantage of digital services available on their car. The Connected Package Professional includes Remote Services, Concierge Services and Real Time Traffic Information and so much more. The package provides a subscription for three years on all included services – with the exception of Apple CarPlay which is included for the first 12 months. Customers can also continue to download the various digital services individually and retrospectively via the ConnectedDrive Store.

BMW Connected: digital services for individual mobility. 
BMW Connected is the digital and personal mobility assistant for BMW drivers and not just in the car; BMW Connected is an all-embracing concept designed to seamlessly connect the driver and their smartphone with their vehicle.

At the heart of it all is the Open Mobility Cloud, which allows the personal mobility assistant to interface the car with the customer’s digital devices. These could include an iPhone and Apple Watch, smartphones and smartwatches running the Android operating system, Alexa-compatible smart devices and Google Home.

Always up to date thanks to Remote Software Upgrade. 
The Remote Software Upgrade feature keeps the vehicle up to date with the latest software. All updates can be loaded over the air and upgrades can be loaded onto a smartphone via the BMW Connected app when connected to a domestic WiFi network or imported directly via the BMW’s built-in SIM card, which happens automatically for important vehicle upgrades. The Remote Software Upgrade facility therefore maximises flexibility while keeping BMW vehicles in tune with the latest technological developments.

Mobile office: Microsoft Office 365 with Skype for Business. 
The integration of Microsoft Office 365 turns the new BMW X5 into a mobile office. Users of a Business Essential or Business Premium account with Exchange function are thereby able to safely access their email account from their car and easily manage appointments and contacts, so there is absolutely no need for them to use their smartphone while driving. Drivers can have emails read out to them and are able to use voice commands to dictate and send new messages while on the move. In addition, calendar appointments can be confirmed, cancelled or transferred straight to the navigation system, as can contact addresses. Microsoft Office 365 users have also been able to use Skype for Business from Microsoft in their car since autumn 2017.

The all-new BMW X5 is on sale now, prices start from £57,495 OTR.

Ends

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2017, the BMW Group sold over 2,463,500 passenger vehicles and more than 164,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2017 was € 10.655 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.678 billion. As of 31 December 2017, the BMW Group had a workforce of 129,932 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

Facebook: BMW UK
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LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited
YouTube: BMW UK

For further information please contact:

Lauren Prema                                         BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 07815 370746

Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk         

Piers Scott                                               General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01252 921265 

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                                         Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01252 921256

Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

• Seamless integration due to built-in SIM card in all vehicles
• Alexa shows relevant content for certain skills in the Display Screen
• Integration of Alexa into all BMW and MINI models from launch
• No smartphone needed to benefit from Alexa in the car

Munich/Seattle. The BMW Group is systematically expanding the intelligent connectivity capabilities of its vehicles by seamlessly integrating the highly versatile Alexa, Amazon’s voice-controlled personal assistant, into all BMW and MINI models from mid-2018. The innovative inclusion of a cloud-based voice service will enable BMW Group customers to access a variety of services, entertainment features and shopping facilities while on the move by simple voice interaction. Tens of thousands of Alexa skills that can be accessed from Echo devices will now be available for in-car use, too.

BMW Connected skill for Alexa has been available since September 2016. This has allowed BMW Connected users in the USA, Germany and the UK to ask Alexa to check vehicle information such as the state of charge or fuel level, or control their car via Remote Services from the comfort of their home. Alexa also makes it possible to consult appointments or scheduled routes and departure times with the help of the BMW Connected mobility agenda. The availability of Alexa in the car now makes it possible to use functions enjoyed at home while out on the road as well.

“By making this step of integrating Alexa into our models from mid-2018, BMW and MINI will form a more intrinsic part of our customers’ digital lifestyles,” remarked Dieter May, Senior Vice President Digital Services and Business Models at the BMW Group. “Voice control first featured in BMW Group cars many years ago, and we are now enhancing its functionality by adding a digital ecosystem, which will open up all sorts of new possibilities that customers can access quickly, easily and safely from their car.”

Today, 8.5 million BMW Group models worldwide are already connected. The vast number of services and infotainment features that can be controlled by voice commands in BMW models have paved the way for the forthcoming connectivity options and new digital services. A smartphone is not required to benefit from Alexa in the car, as all BMW models and selected MINI vehicles come equipped with a built-in SIM card. The resultant provision of online accessibility anywhere, anytime allows the seamless integration of Alexa.

For example, customers can find out which movies are currently showing at the local cinema, listen to their favourite playlist or find out the weather at their destination by voice command while on the move. And if the driver realises mid-way through a journey that they have forgotten something, they can ask Alexa to place an online order. Alexa can also show relevant content for certain skills (visual feedback) in the BMW Display Screen or MINI Centre Instrument.

“We are excited to work with BMW to bring the Alexa experience to their drivers,” said Ned Curic, Vice President, Alexa Automotive. “Using your voice to enjoy content and interact with Alexa makes a great driving experience even better. We can’t wait for BMW customers to try this out.” Intelligent connectivity between the vehicle and the user’s digital touchpoints is therefore moving into a new dimension at both BMW and MINI. Since the launch of the MINI Countryman – and the new MINI Connected alongside it – the connectivity capabilities of the British premium brand have been constantly enhanced.

From mid-2018 Amazon Alexa will be available in all BMW and MINI vehicles in USA, UK and Germany.

1. Source of innovation. 25 years of BMW (Forschung und) Technik GmbH. (summary version)

2. Making the force of innovation tangible. The concept vehicles of BMW Technik GmbH.

BMW Z1:  First project becomes an immediate legend.

BMW Z1 Coupé: The base for the platform concept.

BMW E1: premiere in the sphere of electric vehicles.

BMW Z13: an interior concept that breaks the mould of convention.

BMW Z18: The first off-road roadster.

BMW Z21: fascinating driving fun Just 4/2.

BMW Z22: a masterpiece in mechatronic design.

BMW Z29: driving machine made from Formula 1 materials.

3. The future of sheer driving pleasure. Efficient Dynamics – from research to road.

Fuel-cell hybrid technology for emission-free mobility in city traffic.

BMW has been developing fuel-cell technology since 1997.

APU supplies the on-board power – and also provides drive energy for the first time.

Reformer technology: fewer emissions during cold start.

Synthesis gas obtained from liquid fuel is free of residues.

Hybrid concepts: More efficiency, more driving pleasure – right from the start.

Development of hybrid technology since the 1990s.

Option for the future, available now owing to intensive research: hydrogen as fuel.

4. More driving pleasure, comfort and safety through smart networking. Connected Drive – a dynamic concept with fascinating perspectives.

Strategic support in demanding driving situations: the narrow-passage assistant.

Automated driving in hazard situations: the emergency stop assistant.

Optimised vehicle localisation: with the TrackTrainer on the North Loop of the Nürburgring.

Independent manoeuvring in very tight spaces: the garage parker.

Networking is the future: vehicle-to-vehicle communication for enhanced safety and efficiency.

Research project for innovative control systems: Drive Stick.

From sailing to vehicle: optimised head-up display technology.

Identification and integration of new technologies as a recipe for success: BMW ConnectedDrive Services with unique, world-class functionality.

Innovative services for alternative drive concepts.

BMW Key: Additional functions through networking.