This is what BMW’s highway assistant can do today: This is where autonomous driving is at

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Literally autonomous cars do not yet exist. The highest feeling will be driving in fully automatic level 5 so that the steering wheel can also be eliminated. However, technology still remains at level 3. The range of vehicles with such autonomous driving functions is manageable: Mercedes now offers the S-Class and its electric counterpart, the EQS, with a level 3 system in which the driver no longer needs to stop the first time.

One caveat: The system currently only works in Germany, in convoy traffic only at speeds up to 60 km/h, and only on motorways and autobahns. Models such as the Audi A8 or BMW iX have been announced with Level 3 technology, but the system in which the automaker takes responsibility for any accidents is not yet included in the vehicle. It’s surprising that the all-new BMW 7 Series and Mercedes’ new E-Class also lack Level 3.

Visual orientation

The same goes for the new BMW 5 Series, which will be launched in the autumn with an internal combustion engine and an electric i5 version. Some expected level three semi-autonomous driving for the next generation. Although the limousine from Munich offers many advanced technologies, it is lacking. After all, BMW offers consolation with its highway assistant, which is level 2+, so to speak. The system is currently only approved in Germany and the USA. But we were using a prototype on Portuguese highways.

From the outside, you can’t see anything in the 5 Series. If it weren’t for the stickers on the vehicle, no one would suspect that this was a prototype exempt from advanced driving functions via visual control. Operating condition: Driving on the motorway with structurally separated lanes and not exceeding 130 km per hour Start from Lisbon. The speed limit increases to 80, 100 and 120 km/h, and BMW allows the assistant to be turned on. Press the button on the steering wheel and off you go. The prototype stays on the road easily and safely for kilometers. Green arrows on the instruments indicate steering intervention, which can be felt by hands on the steering wheel. But they’ve been twiddling their thumbs in their laps for a long time.

BMW attracts attention

The vehicle is ahead! BMW offers an overtaking function via the display in the windshield because the white Renault in front of us is traveling at less than 100 km/h. A look to the left in the mirror and then over your shoulder is enough to give the i5 the starting signal: it automatically turns on the turn signal, passes and returns to the lane. It worked perfectly the next time too – only the third time there was a problem: a car was too close to the middle lane. However, when the required distance is reached, the i5 changes lanes. Surprising: The system also works with sunglasses on your nose and at a maximum speed of 180 km/h.

The i5 keeps us in sight: a message plays on the smartphone, the driver reaches for the charging slot in the center console for a quick look, and then loud complaints are heard from the annoyed BMW. Sensors in the cockpit detected our eyes looking away for a few seconds. If you look elsewhere for longer, the car will come to an emergency stop. This is the difference between levels 2 and 3: in a 2+ system, as in the BMW 5 Series, the driver is still solely responsible and must keep his eyes on the road. The automaker only assumes legal liability from level 3 onwards.

Cameras, ultrasound, radar

Cameras, ultrasound and radar sensors provide the driving assistant with the necessary information about the environment and the driver’s behavior. Real-time navigation map with exact routes and GPS tracking ensure precise positioning. For this purpose, the i5 connects to a cloud via a 5G connection.

Conclusion after the test drive: The assistant works really reliably in sunlight, in heavy city center traffic and at speeds of up to 130 km/h, even with a driver wearing dark sunglasses. However, we are still a long way from autonomous driving where you can do other things. Your hands are on your lap and you no longer have to blink: This may not be enough for many users, especially considering that the system will cost a corresponding extra fee. If you want to work or relax in your car, you will have to wait for Level 3 technology. You can also look at your smartphone later.

Source: Blick