Video: BMW takes the joy out of driving, shows hands free-driving on the Autobahn

In 2011 BMW’s Track Trainer began testing, a model based on the 330i that drives itself via a built-in GPS system.

The autonomous technology is now being implemented in the BMW 5 Series ConnectedDrive with an improved version of the 330i tester. Using a system of cameras, radar, and laser scanners, the car brakes, accelerates, passes vehicles, and abides by traffic laws while simultaneously analyzing traffic conditions.

Our main challenge was to develop algorithms that can handle entirely new situations. In principle, the system works on all freeways that we have mapped out beforehand with [a] centimeter accuracy,” said Nico Kaempchen, project manager of Highly Automated Driving. at BMW Group Research and Technology.

The i3 will be the first BMW that comes with the option of a “traffic-jam” feature, which, at low speeds, will steer, speed up and slow down on its own.

Follow the jump for the video.

By: Alexandra Koken