BMW has revealed a roofless and doorless concept version of its i8 plug-in hybrid sports car at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
Called the i Vision Future, this BMW is based on the i8 roadster concept previously revealed back in 2012.
As well as hinting at how a future production i8 convertible could appear, the BMW i Vision Future showcases new tech from the German car maker, including autonomous driving support and internet-reliant gadgets.
The interior of the i Vision Future includes three main display units. One of these is an all-new head-up display which can project info such as speed, speed limits and sat-nav instructions on the windscreen within the driver’s field of vision.
Also featured is a three dimensional digital instrument display behind the restyled multi-function steering wheel. An ultra-high definition monitor can alter the depth of field in order to adapt to current lighting and therefore display information in the clearest manner possible. The large panorama display on top of the dashboard can display content when the driver accesses mobile or wireless internet functions.
BMW says the i Vision Future can also provide info on the cars on the road ahead and about on-coming traffic which has not yet appeared in the field of vision. This should allow drivers to better respond to various conditions, particularly when the car is in autonomous mode.
Speaking of autonomous mode, the driver can use a switch on the steering wheel to adjust the BMW between three driving modes. These models include pure drive, assist (provides real time traffic info to provide the quickest route to a destination) and Auto (the car controls itself).
In Auto mode, the BMW will stick to an approved lane and can control acceleration, braking and steering without driver intervention. When the car leaves its approved lane, a red light signals the driver to take back control of the car.
