BMW’s i division, known for electric and hybrid cars, has shifted focus to developing autonomous technology under a newly launched programme called 'Project i Next'.
Under the new programme, the i division is likely to focus on developing autonomous driving systems, and hence, could scale back on manufacturing electric drivetrains for cars. The company is now hiring experts in the field of machine learning and artificial intelligence to further develop its existing autonomous driving systems and speed up the integration into production models.
Earlier this year, BMW revealed its interest in autonomous tech development with the Vision Next 100 concept – the manufacturer's interpretation of what a car would be like 100 years from now.
Currently, the i division sells two models internationally, the all-electric i3 and hybrid i8, of which the latter retails in India. The brand’s future line-up is expected to include revised versions of its current cars, the i8 Roadster and a new i Next model, which is due in 2021.