BMW plans to bring navigation-guided, partially automated driving to urban environments through software updates starting in 2027. Germany will receive the feature first, with other markets expected to follow.
The system will use the vehicle’s built-in GPS navigation to assist with steering, acceleration and braking on highways and city streets. In urban areas, it will be able to support lane changes, turns, yielding to other vehicles and roundabouts.
BMW classifies the technology as a Level 2 driver-assistance system, so drivers will remain responsible for the vehicle and must keep their eyes on the road. They will also need to be prepared to take control at any time. On highways, BMW will allow hands-free driving, but drivers will be required to keep their hands on the wheel on local roads.
The company says the system is designed to work cooperatively with drivers. They will be able to steer, brake or accelerate to adjust the vehicle’s behavior without deactivating the assistance. Information about the vehicle’s surroundings and the system’s actions will be shown through the head-up display and a 3D map on the central dashboard screen.
BMW says the required cameras and sensors are already installed in models including the 3 Series, 7 Series, X5, iX3 and iX4. The feature can be activated through an over-the-air update. It is designed to comply with new European safety rules that allow automated driving functions to suggest and perform maneuvers on urban roads.
According to BMW, outside experts have tested the system and confirmed that it meets the relevant technical standards. Final government approval is expected in early 2027.
The planned rollout comes as automakers compete with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system and expand Level 2 assistance beyond highways. BMW’s latest Neue Klasse platform includes a driver-assistance system partly supported by Qualcomm technology.
The move also comes amid safety concerns about partial automation. Researchers have warned that drivers can become overreliant on assistance systems and may react more slowly when they need to resume control. As with Tesla’s FSD, BMW emphasizes that drivers remain responsible while using the technology, including in urban environments.
Sources: The Verge.