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BMW’s new iDrive launched at CES turns the windshield into a panoramic display

  • BMW has showcased their newest technology at CES 2025
  • The automaker unveiled its latest iDrive panoramic display
  • The heads-up display uses augmented reality

Published on Jan 08, 2025 at 3:00 PM (UTC+4)
by Nalin Rawat

Last updated on Jan 08, 2025 at 3:00 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Kate Bain

BMW has just showcased its latest iDrive panoramic display that will be coming for all new models from the end of 2025.

The new display uses a new augmented reality system that’s going to be lightyears ahead of anything on the market today.

BMW says it will layer navigation directions and driver assistance with road information.

It will also come with a new steering wheel with haptic buttons.

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BMW iDrive panoramic display

The automaker has also eliminated the traditional gauge cluster in the dash.

Instead, they are opting for a customizable digital version projected onto the windshield.

BMWs-new-iDrive-launched-at-CES-turns-the-windshield-into-a-panoramic-display
BMW

The new system will be featured on the upcoming X-class SUV built on the all-electric BMW Neue Klasse platform. 

Like many automakers, BMW is also trying to cut down on screens and dials inside the vehicle.

It seems that they have taken inspiration from Tesla’s minimalistic design.

“Pushing the display closer to the street will help drivers make quicker decisions, which will make it easier to keep your eyes on the road,” head of digital and UX Christian Bauer said.

Adding to the driving experience

BMW-iDrive-system-turns-the-windshield-into-a-3D-display
BMW

According to BMW’s CTO Frank Weber, it’s not like having a video screen in your car, but rather an added layer of augmented reality to keep the driver and car more connected to the road.

“You are connected to the car, and the car is connected to the road. It’s exactly where you would expect the information to be,” he said.

This isn’t the first time we have seen this new heads-up display.

The company previously showed a version of it at CES 2023 in the iVision Dee concept car.

As for how it looks, the 3D display runs a black strip along the bottom of the windshield.

Although the iDrive system uses the windshield as a display, it’s not a specialty windshield and won’t cost extra to replace.

The automaker uses a special film on the windshield to make the 3D images appear crisp and clear.

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Nalin started his career by working with various national newspapers in India. He has also worked as a writer/editor for many popular websites, while still pursuing his journalism and mass communication degree. Working as a digital nomad has allowed him to inform and educate through his work. When he is not writing, you can find him playing video games or travelling the mountains on his bike.