BMW Model With Eye-Activation Launched
German carmaker says innovation is an industry first.
When the vehicle suggests a lane change, its driver can confirm the suggestion by looking over at the corresponding side mirror.
IMAGE: BMW
BMW’s new 5 series, introduced on Wednesday, features the unique capability of eye-activated technology.
The series will debut in the fall as both gas-powered and electric, followed by plug-in hybrid versions next year.
Among the automated functions of the sedan’s optional Highway Assistant system, which allows long-distance highway driving without active driver control, is a lane-change feature that can now be controlled with eye movement, an innovation BMW is calling a world-first.
When the vehicle suggests a lane change, its driver can confirm the suggestion by looking over at the corresponding side mirror. Then the Active Lane Change technology moves the steering wheel at speeds as high as 85, “traffic conditions and speed limits permitting,” BMW says.
With the updated technology, the driver no longer must confirm a lane change with the turn signal, as is the case with other makers’ automatic driving systems. A camera behind the steering wheel follows the driver’s gaze.
When using the Highway Assistant, the driver is monitored by the camera to ensure he or she is continuously watching the road. Otherwise, warnings appear in the dash, and the system would eventually stop altogether.
LEARN MORE: BMW Remote Key Now Open to Android
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