At the interface between the vehicle and its environment, technologies are needed that go beyond a vehicle-oriented viewpoint. The BMW Group is working on a large number of innovative functions and services that offer the driver useful and effective assistance in coping with the daily solid line of cars in congested areas. As a result, as much data as possible pertaining to traffic volume, the weather, or also local occurrences such as road works or major events, is utilised as an input parameter for assistance technologies such as navigation, Telematic services or driver assistance systems. To this end, BMW employs a team of experts with focused interdisciplinary traffic competence who work within the framework of various projects in the field of research, consultancy and concept planning.
Traffic information. In times of ever-increasing traffic congestion, accurate and reliable traffic information is becoming more and more important. Determining where traffic is still flowing in congested areas, or - should one get caught in a traffic jam - being able to reliably predict the anticipated time of arrival is precisely the challenge we are faced with. Therefore, it is particularly important that traffic information ensures access to required data at all times and that any data sources that may be lacking are constantly improved and developed further.
Route-related information. In addition to solely traffic-related information, route-related information is also very crucial. Which route is the fastest and most effective? Where are phased traffic lights in operation? On which routes can road works currently be expected? Ideally, the answers to these questions should be incorporated into route planning. Reliable and consistent access to this information provided by urban traffic management is the prerequisite.
But also during the journey, such information contributes towards a more relaxed and safer driving style. Critical situations and possible hazards can be prevented or avoided using route-related information. Here too, the close cooperation with authorities and national institutions is of great importance, as in this way, access to data and information sources is ensured. Assistance systems can calculate and propose a new route based on the information given. Consequently, the driver is optimally warned in good time of any danger spots that may lie ahead.
Here you see selected projects, within the framework of which the BMW Group is working in the field of research, consultancy and concept planning:
