BMW has announced that it will show a new concept Vision Car to explore advanced interiors and controls at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), from 6 to 9 January 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Among the advanced technology promised is AirTouch, which enables users to control the in-vehicle display through gesture, in a similar manner to using a touchscreen. The system takes gesture control technology to a higher level than the production BMW 7-Series, enabling control of entertainment, navigation, and communication with a flat hand. Sensors record hand movements in the area between the centre console and the interior mirror, permitting three-dimensional (3D) control of the system. The system also features an AirTouch button on the steering wheel and one for the front passenger on the side sill in the door area. A single tap can activate a desired control or change a setting. The combination is designed to make navigation intuitive through 3D gesture control and confirmation of the desired function through the button. BMW says the system also reduces the number of steps needed to make a selection by recognising which selection and control steps would be next and displaying them in advance.
Significance: BMW has not indicated when the system might enter production, though suppliers, including Visteon, have been working on 3D control for vehicle interiors. Automakers are increasing their presence at the Consumer Electronics Show, which provides a showcase for introducing connectivity and control software. The show is also increasingly a venue for introducing alternative-fuel vehicles, with the 2016 edition expected to feature the Chevrolet Bolt and a Volkswagen EV concept. Suppliers are also expanding their participation.
