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BMW Unleashes Level 3 Autonomy in the 7 Series: Hands-Free Driving Enters the Luxe Lane

Georg Meier

Nov 10, 2023 — 3 min read

From March 2024: Highly automated driving at level 3 in the new BMW 7 Series. In addition to the latest generation of cameras, ultrasonic and radar sensors, the vehicle with the option Personal Pilot is equipped with a highly sensitive 3D lidar sensor to monitor the environment and traffic conditions.

In a move that's set to redefine 'hands-off' luxury, BMW is rolling out its Level 3 automated driving system, dubbed 'BMW Personal Pilot L3', in the new 7 Series. It's like your chauffeur has a digital twin, and it’s ready to take over the wheel!

Visualisation in the Information Display when Personal Pilot is activated.

Driving Without Driving: The BMW Personal Pilot L3

Ever fancied editing emails or streaming the latest series while cruising down the autobahn? BMW's making this sci-fi dream a reality. With the Personal Pilot L3, the driver can literally check out from driving duties, letting the car handle the nitty-gritty of steering, braking, and keeping a safe distance from the car in front.

Highly automated driving at level 3 in the new BMW 7 Series enables secondary activities such as video streaming.

Night Vision: Automated Driving in the Dark

What's even cooler? This tech-savvy system doesn't need a nightlight. Thanks to BMW’s cutting-edge sensors, the 7 Series will navigate the dark all by itself – a first of its kind.

The Price of Futuristic Travel? 6,000 Euros

Exclusivity has a price, and in this case, it's 6,000 euros. But hey, can you really put a price on turning your car into a mobile office/lounge?

Requests for intervention are provided via visual and acoustic signals.

Level Up from Level 2: What’s the Big Deal?

Now, BMW already has Level 2 autonomy in its arsenal with the BMW Highway Assistant. But Level 3? That's a whole new ballgame. We're talking full relinquishing of driving responsibility under certain conditions. The Highway Assistant is like having a co-pilot, but the Personal Pilot L3 is like having an autopilot.

Visualisation in the Information Display and Head-Up Display when Personal Pilot is activated.

BMW’s Tech Symphony: Lidar, Cameras, and 5G

How does it all work? Imagine a symphony of tech – lidar, radar, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras, all conducted by a powerful software stack and connected through 5G. This ensemble makes the car aware of its surroundings, even more than some drivers (no offense!).

In addition to the latest generation of cameras, ultrasonic and radar sensors, the vehicle with the option Personal Pilot is equipped with a highly sensitive 3D lidar sensor to monitor the environment and traffic conditions.

The Fine Print: Driver, Be Ready

But before you plan to snooze your way through traffic, remember, this isn't a free pass to never pay attention. The system requires the driver to be ready to take back control when needed. A little like having a safety net, but you still need to know how to walk the tightrope.

BMW’s Tech Ambition: Unmatched and Unrivalled

BMW's not just pushing the envelope; they're redesigning it. This leap into Level 3 autonomy in the 7 Series isn't just about adding a feature; it's about setting a new standard in automotive luxury and technology.

Wrapping Up

In a world where time is luxury, BMW's offering a slice of the future, today. And for those who can afford it, the new 7 Series isn’t just a car; it’s a mobile tech haven. Just remember, it's still a BMW at heart – so when you do decide to take the wheel, expect that familiar thrill of driving pleasure. The future's here, and it’s wearing a BMW badge.