BMW engineers at it again.....

[bmwrocks]

Heard today on the news that BMW engineers have developed hardware and software to detect traffic and road conditions, then disable functions like radio, nav, phone.

The idea is this is supposed to help drivers focus more on driving when adverse conditions exist enhancing driving safety.

My gut instinct on this is I don't like it, too invasive and personal. Just leave me alone already!!

 

[man02195]

I hope the system will also put my coffee in the cupholder and turn my head in the direction of the altercation, and put both hands on the wheel at 10 and 2.

 

[PuShAkOv]

It will drop BMW sales thats for sure. But I bet you can turn the feature off. If this system is used it will turn my radio off every time that temperature reading blinks and it is wet outside. With Blizzaks I can have excellent traction even during those "dangerous" times and I do not want any machine telling me what not to do.

Whats next? Limiting HP for safety reasons? Adding another wheel for stability? Detecting streets through GPS and limiting speed accordingly? BOOOOO [thumbd] My Car. My Choice.

~P.u.S.h.

 

[Kirby]

BMW is part of a large group of companies working on a grand plan (= expensive!) to improve safety and traffic flow in Europe. If you have lots of time on your hands, there is a ton of information about the current status and future plans for this technology:

http://www.invent-online.de/index.html

 

[Krafty04]

Prior to picking up the Bimmer at the Factory, we rented an Renault something-rother and while listening to the radio, it cut-out and started talking about traffic accident causing delays.... since I don't understand German, I switched that feature off.... just pushed the button with the "?" and it stopped. This would be a very cool feature for those living in a big city and trying to get somewheres quickly... plus nice you can turn it off when not required.

Another fine sign of European Ingenuity.