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BMW i Vision Future Interaction concept revealed

Based on a door-less BMW i8 roadster; features a host of new and autonomous technology.
2 min read6 Jan '16
Staff WriterStaff Writer
6K+ views

BMW has revealed a new concept in the form of the i Vision Future Interaction concept at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The car is based around a door-less version of the i8 roadster concept that was revealed in 2012 and features BMW’s latest advancement in autonomous driving technology along with interactive information displays and internet-based features.

The interior of the i Vision Future Interaction concept is dominated by three display units including a large 110x400mm, 21-inch panoramic display stretching from the centre console across the passenger side of the dashboard. The steering is a redesigned two-spoke unit with controls for the display unit and drive mode selection. The car also comes equipped with a new heads-up display unit which projects information relating to speed, speed limits and navigation instructions on the windscreen within the driver’s field of vision.

The driver gets an ultra high-definition display for the instrument cluster that projects 3D-like image depth but without the need for any specialised head-gear or glasses. In addition to providing the usual readout, the display also gives details about the cars ahead and about on-coming traffic that is out of the driver’s line of sight. BMW claims that the system will allow for better safety, especially in autonomous mode where the car will warn the driver up to seven seconds prior to when an accident could occur.

The panoramic display stretching along the passenger side of the dashboard displays content from BMW’s Open Mobility Cloud system via a wireless data connection with the information displayed varying as per the cars driving modes – even allowing for video calling during full autonomous mode. Furthermore, the car comes equipped with a system the company calls Air Touch. The system uses sensors on the dashboard to allow the driver or passenger to control the panoramic display’s readout through hand-based gestures.

The car is equipped with three drive modes – Pure drive, Assist and Auto. Under Pure drive mode, the car delivers optimum levels of performance with driver assist function kept in the background. In Assist mode, the assistance systems become more involved with the driving of the car and actively intervene in times of need. In Auto mode, the car is fully autonomous, controlling all aspects of driving including steering, acceleration and braking. The steering lights up in a blue hue and the car provides an early warning to the driver to take control in case of the car moving out of its lane.

Volkswagen readying new variant nomenclature

Pictures of VW's Passat Flagship variant for China show a new 380 TSI badge instead of the regular 2.0 TSI.
1 min read6 Jan '16
Staff WriterStaff Writer

Hyundai readying Dzire Tour rival

The Xcent Taxi variant will be available in both petrol and diesel guises.
1 min read6 Jan '16
Akbar MerchantAkbar Merchant

Hyundai Xcent base variant shown. The Taxi trim will not come with full-wheel caps.

ARAI Homologation and Technology Centre opens in Chakan

The centre was inaugurated during ARAI's golden jubilee celebrations; offers homologation services to carmakers in the Indian and global export markets.
3 min read6 Jan '16
Staff WriterStaff Writer

Anant Geete, Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, inaugurates the ARAI Homologation and Technology Centre, at Chakan.

Jaguar XJ sedan replacement confirmed

The carmaker is also considering introducing new model lines, rather than adding new body styles to Jaguar's current line-up.
2 min read6 Jan '16
Staff WriterStaff Writer

Maruti Baleno vs Honda Jazz vs Hyundai i20 comparison

Maruti's new Baleno takes on the Jazz and i20. Which one is worth the hype?
3 min read6 Jan '16
Gavin D'SouzaGavin D'Souza

Baleno's dash design is fresh but still too many standard Suzuki bits.

Large headrests impede view from rear.

Surprising amount of room in Baleno and seats comfy too.

High, small opening spoils this large boot.

Info screen in Baleno is very detailed.

Some plastics in the Baleno aren’t as good as others.

Projector lamps give Baleno a premium look.

Jazz’s City-like asymmetric cabin design doesn’t feel special enough and plastic quality is inconsistent.

The most spacious and comfortable seats, front or rear.

Largest boot and easiest to load too.

Jazz touch AC tricky to use on the go.

Storage spaces in the Jazz are thoughtful and plenty.

Jazz’s snappy, short-throw gearshift is a delight to use.

i20's dash has the best design and the highest quality materials as well.

Space not as good as the others and seats are too soft.

i20 seats low and window sill high.

Smallest boot here, but well shaped.

i20 switches and ports are illuminated.

The i20 is the only one to get a rear AC vent.

i20’s power delivery feels too flat and is weak low down.