The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive concept seen at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, apart from the mildly intriguing interior entertainment and technology seen, is interesting for what it suggests we might see on future BMW models. The spyder is said to preview the future BMW Z2 model and while it was designed as a fancy show-car, we prefer the former possibility it presents.

Despite our skepticism over how interested we should be in the ConnectedDrive system, BMW considers it so important that it hasn’t released detailed information on the drivetrain or technical details of the vehicle, focusing instead on the new-age technology it presents. It’s all about ‘augmented reality’ and new ways of presenting trip information to drivers and passengers.

On the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive there is complete integration between mobile devices, internet, satellite navigation and information related to the vehicle itself and others on the road, presented through new 3D screens, voice and electronic commands. With the layered information system on the new head-up display, we get all trip information without having to take our eyes off the road. Three light systems on-board are used for status’ of Safety, Infotainment and Comfort. It’s impressive stuff, but we just don’t feel as interested as we think BMW intended us to be.

Bmw Vision ConnectedDrive new pics

Continue reading: BMW Vision ConnectedDrive new pics

....

0 comments

The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive concept has been revealed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, appearing alongside the new BMW X1 xDrive28i. These live pics from Geneva show the Vision ConnectedDrive concept in all its glory, although it’s hard to know what to think about it. The Vision ConnectedDrive is a hot looking model, with plenty roadster fastness about it, but that’s not what it’s been intended for and the rest of its manifesto leaves us just slightly underwhelmed.

While the Vision ConnectedDrive concept is a precursor to the future BMW Z2 we’ll see, it has been put together to show off some technicolour bells and whistles from BMW. The interior has an HUD 3D display and various mood lighting which reflects the drive modes selected at any one time. Other than that, BMW didn’t really have too much to say, having already released the details of this model. What we can happily say is that the new design direction taking place with Adrian von Hooydonk at the helm is the striking style that BMW needed to emerge from the controversy of the Chris Bangle era.

The BMW X1 xDrive28i is equipped with BMW’s new four-cylinder engine. It’s a 2.0-litre turbo unit with 245 hp and 350 Nm of torque. This particular powertrain replaces the previous six-cylinder, three-litre unit and represents the new mid-range option. It also contributes to keeping emissions and fuel consumption down. This particular SUV is estimated as running at between 9.9 and 6.7 l/100 km. The TwinPower Turbo engine has a turbocompressor with technology such as twin-scroll and Valvetronic variable valve system. It will soon equip other models, including the BMW Z4.

BMW Vision ConnectedDrive live at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

Continue reading: BMW Vision ConnectedDrive live at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

....

0 comments

The 2011 Geneva Motor Show is going to be big. In these first live pics from the showroom floor we can see two big highlights: the Pagani Huayra (under a sheet) and the Ferrrari FF after the new Lamborghini Aventador was released yesterday evening. We also got a quick peek at the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept and the Maserati GranTurismo. In terms of sexy little Italian numbers, we’ll also be seeing the now confirmed Alfa Romeo 4C GTA model. Stay with us as we bring you live pics from our colleagues at Autblog.it over the next couple of days.

2011 Geneva Motor Show live: first pics

Continue reading: Huayra, Ferrari FF, Maserati GranTurismo: first live pics from Geneva 2011

....

0 comments

It’s a shame that the sexy electric-powered BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept to debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show isn’t purely a study in an electric roadster model that might make production in the future. Rather, BMW is using it as its demonstration of connectivity and networking technologies that could make their way into the interior of our cars of the future. And the ‘wow’ factor is absolutely key.

The Vision ConnectedDrive concept vehicle will show off new infotainment features, including a three-dimensional multimedia display unit and what BMW calls “Augmented Reality” technology. This technology seems to be a way of the car layering additional, digital information over what the driver sees. There are differing light installations, exterior light sensors which monitor traffic, a new instrument cluster and separate, passenger information display.

In short, the Vision ConnectedDrive Concept is equipped with a multitude of bells and whistles. It is slightly confusing, but to get all the information, see the dedicated ConnectedDrive press release after the jump.

Continue reading: BMW Vision ConnectedDrive video, pics and details

....

0 comments