BMW just recently held its annual shareholders meeting where it revealed its strategy to launch a brand-new model called the iNext, an all-electric self-driving automobile that is slated to go on sale by 2021.
As per the name, the BMW iNext will fall under the automaker’s i brand along with the i3 and i8. BMW didn’t provide any particular information about the iNext, though CEO Harald Krueger told shareholders the iNext will be the company’s “new innovation driver, with autonomous driving, digital connection, smart lightweight design, a totally new interior and ultimately bringing the next generation of electro-mobility to the road.”
Back in March, BMW commemorated its 100th year anniversary and displayed its Vision Next 100 concept. The concept included fancy butterfly doors and shape-shifting body panels, however more notably, it acted as a mean BMW’s concept for autonomous automobiles. The concept includes various modes including a “Boost Mode” that enables the motorist to take full control of the vehicle.
BMW isn’t the only company feverishly dealing with self-driving technology. Mercedes-Benz, for example, has actually fitted the all-new E-Class with sophisticated semi-autonomous technology, while Volvo, Audi, and Ford continue to invest heavily in self-driving development. Self-driving tech might be developing at a fast pace, but legislation managing autonomous cars might posture a larger difficulty in future.
