In this age of modern innovation, it’s sometimes hard to keep up with all the different advancements that seem to come out on a daily basis. Between vehicular autonomy, running on electricity, and the array of accessories featured in newer models, the automotive industry is at the forefront of this technological influx. After years of reports, speculation, and demonstrations, BMW’s 7 and 5 series feature a unique ability for drivers to remotely park the car using the display fob on their key. The remote parking system enables drivers to fit their vehicles in those narrow parking spaces that are otherwise too tight for anyone to exit out of their vehicle.
The process requires the driver to align the vehicle with the space (before exiting), and instruct the car to park itself using the display key fob. A simple push of a button on the key fob activates the system, after which the touchscreen can be used to guide the vehicle in or out of the space. For safety purposes, the process is supervised by the vehicle’s park distance control, parking assistant, and surround view systems. If their sensors detect any obstructions in the car’s vicinity, the vehicle stops instantly. Users can also halt the car manually by simply removing their finger off the touchscreen.
While unique and innovative in its own way, the vehicle can only move the vehicle forward or backward (and 10 meters in either direction). While some might consider this one of the system’s shortcomings, keep in mind this setup is specifically designed for maneuvering a car in tight spaces, not to navigate an entire parking lot. The video below breaks down how the display key fob works.
Filed Under: M2M (machine to machine)
