Car interfaces have seen their fair share of evvolutio through the years, and BMW’s latest reveal at CES 2025 feels like a turning point – but I’m not sure if it’s the good kind.
Let me paint you a picture of what they’re planning for their new electric cars. Imagine your entire windshield becoming one giant display. BMW calls it “Panoramic Vision,” and it projects information onto a black strip at the bottom of your windshield. They’re promising it won’t need special glass, but let’s be real – HUD-compatible windshields already cost more to replace.
Here’s where it gets interesting: they’re adding a second 3D display right in front of the driver. So now you’ve got two HUDs showing different information. One might show your active safety systems while the other gives you turn-by-turn directions.
The center screen is getting a makeover too. It’s running something called OS X (not to be confused with Apple’s system). It’s built on Android Open Source Project and acts more like your phone – you can customize it with your photos and arrange apps how you like.
But here’s what raised my eyebrows: they’ve removed almost all physical buttons. Instead, they’re betting big on voice controls, partnering with Amazon to make an AI system that understands natural language. The system will even try to anticipate your needs, suggesting Sport Mode on twisty roads or starting your favorite playlist.
Is this what drivers actually want? Many car owners have been asking for more physical controls, not fewer. Touch screens are great until you’re trying to adjust your air conditioning while keeping your eyes on the road.
The AI assistant sounds smart – it’s supposed to learn from your preferences and stop making suggestions you always ignore. But we’ve all dealt with overeager digital assistants before. Time will tell if BMW’s version hits the right balance.
For anyone considering a future BMW electric vehicle, this tech looks impressive, but consider how much information you really need while driving. Sometimes less is more, especially when you’re trying to focus on the road.
These features will debut in BMW’s Neue Klasse electric vehicles soon. Whether this marks the future of driving or information overload, one thing’s clear: the traditional car dashboard is becoming history.
