Tech

Self-Driving BMWs Are Integrating AI for Emergency Vehicle Detection

Artificial intelligence (AI) is carving a significant role in the automotive industry. How has BMW approached this advanced technology and its subsets? Recently, the German automaker began integrating AI in its self-driving vehicle program to aid emergency detection. 

With this addition, BMW is enhancing the future of autonomous cars. 

BMW Leans Into AI for Emergency Detection

Most states require drivers to pull over for emergency vehicles. While humans know these laws, it may be more difficult for a self-driving car to hear the sirens and react quickly. If they don’t, transitioning to these autonomous vehicles could be more challenging. With this complication in mind, BMW has recruited reinforcements to help these futuristic cars. 

In June, BMW announced its partnership with Cerence, an AI company specializing in transportation solutions. With Cerence’s Emergency Vehicle Detection (EVD), cars can better detect when police, firetrucks or ambulances are approaching. BMW’s current autonomous capabilities are at level 3, prompting the driver to take action when emergency vehicles are nearby. 

How will Cerence’s technology work? Developers have trained the EVD system on the sound structure of emergency sirens, and it detects these vehicles from up to 1,968 feet away with exterior microphones. Upon hearing the sound, the EVD software turns down your music and tells you to pull over. This innovation could also benefit drivers with hearing problems. 

Where Can You Use the EVD System? 

Cerence’s EVD software is available in the BMW Personal Pilot L3. These vehicles operate in Germany on a limited basis and let you reach speeds up to 37 miles per hour on the highway. Last summer, the automaker became the world’s first to combine level 2 and level three via the Personal Pilot program. If you want to test this software, you can find it in the BMW 7 Series. 

While it was exclusive to Germany, the Personal Pilot L3 software has received approval in China. In December 2023, the Chinese government permitted BMW vehicles with this technology to drive on specific sections of Shanghai highways. With more development, this BMW software suite should be available in other major metropolitan areas. 

Currently, the BMW Personal Pilot L3 and the Cerence software are unavailable in the United States. The country’s laws for self-driving vehicles differ from Germany and China, so it may take a while for American drivers with Bimmers. The only level 3 cars in the U.S. come from BMW’s fellow German automaker, Mercedes-Benz. 

How Else Is BMW Incorporating AI? 

With Cerence, BMW has found ways to incorporate AI for increased safety. That said, it’s not the only way the German automaker uses AI. The Munich-based manufacturer has started using these technologies on the supply chain. For instance, you can see AI at work in facilities like the BMW iFACTORY and AIQX. 

With AI’s integration, BMW has had to be more conscious of security. In 2020, the manufacturer adopted a code of ethics for AI, and one of the principles included privacy and data governance. This section expanded its privacy and data security measures to include AI applications. With cars becoming more connected, these technological advancements are necessary. 

While security has traditionally applied to computers and phones, BMW drivers must be aware of it with their new vehicles. Outside threats have become more intelligent and savvy regarding car intrusion. So, how can AI help Bimmer owners? One option is using a modern surveillance system. Developers have combined surveillance systems and AI to make security cameras smarter. 

What Are Potential Uses of AI for Future BMWs? 

With AI, the future is bright for BMW and other automakers. How could you see it in the future? One of the significant implications could be fully self-driving cars. Industry experts are leveraging programming languages like C++ to make this technology more effective. Its versatility and integration with the automotive sector make it a natural choice in research and development. 

Besides the driving experience, AI is making vehicle assembly easier for manufacturers. Since GM’s robotic arm in the 1960s, the industry has gradually relied more on this advanced technology. For example, supply chain management has recently become more critical. AI’s integration will help automakers optimize material sourcing, inventory management and lead times. 

It’s also vital to consider AI for the middle of the supply chain. For instance, BMW dealerships will benefit from AI and machine learning (ML) as they progress. Future uses could include AI-predicted sales forecasting and dynamic pricing strategies. These advanced technologies could also improve customer experiences through enhanced personalization and recommendations. 

BMW’s AI Integration in 2024 and Beyond

Safety is among the key obstacles for self-driving cars. How are the automakers solving the issue? BMW’s partnership with Cerence is a significant first step in integrating autonomous automobiles. 

With this joint venture, self-driving BMWs are more aware of incoming emergency vehicles. AI is growing with the German manufacturer and has a bright future in other applications.

Car Care

Protect Your BMW From Snow and Ice Buildup by Following These 7 Tips

Is your BMW ready to survive winter’s icy grip? Snow driving comes with several challenges, from snow and sleet to salted and wet roads, not to mention the drop in temperatures. However, when you and your prized vehicle are prepared, you can safely handle anything. 

Discover seven winter-ready strategies to protect your BMW while snow driving and parked.

7 Strategies for Winter-Proofing Your BMW

Winter preparations start before the first ice hits. It’s always good to head off any challenges by taking preventive measures rather than having costly repairs. Follow these strategies to keep your beloved “beamer” in tip-top shape. 

1. Fit High-Quality Winter Tires

Unlike regular tires, cold-temperature tires provide better traction in icy weather. They use a softer rubberized material that doesn’t contract in freezing temperatures, making them more pliable. A softer tire surface allows the rubber to “stick” to the cold road for better grip. 

Good winter tires make your vehicle less likely to drift across lanes or slip on that hidden patch of black ice. Fit these tires when temperatures drop below 45℉ to enable better use of the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and decrease braking distances. 

If you choose not to fit specialized tires, ensure your current tires have sufficient tread depth. 

2. Top up on Antifreeze

Freezing temperatures can crack pipes and damage engine components. This is why having a high-quality antifreeze or coolant running through your radiator to the engine is vital to maintaining your car. Select the type of antifreeze recommended for your model vehicle and your unique winter conditions. 

This is also an excellent time to change the regular wiper fluid for a winterized variant, preventing the fluid from freezing on your windshield in the cold.  

3. Protect Your Battery

Winter eats batteries for breakfast, and if your BMW struggles to start on cold mornings, it’s a sure sign that the low temperatures have affected its performance. Changing older batteries before ice or snow is a great preventive measure to ensure you can quickly start your car. 

Using a battery charger in winter can help maintain the chemical reactions in the battery if you don’t drive your vehicle every day. 

4. Consider a Preheater

A cold car interior isn’t fun. Fitting a timed preheater helps warm your car’s cabin and de-ice the windows. Newer versions even pre-heat the engine. Not having to tussle with a door that sticks because of the cold is also a good way to preserve the rubber seals of your doors and windows. Rubber seals become brittle during cold weather when not correctly protected. 

Insulating your garage door is a fantastic combination with a preheater, and if you choose a door with a higher R-value — which indicates its insulation performance — your garage will remain warm. 

Top Tip: Spray all your door and window rubbers with a recommended rubber care fluid. Avoid using DIY solutions that could damage your BMW’s rubber seals and paintwork.   

5. Pack Winter Essentials in Your Car

When you suddenly have to take emergency measures to de-ice your car or deal with a temperature-related issue, you should have all the necessary tools and sundries within easy reach. Keep these handy items in a bag in your car for quick access:

  • An exterior car windshield cover to help prevent ice buildup if your vehicle is parked outside. 
  • A de-icer and ice scraper. 
  • A moist chamois to clean up misted or fogged windows — stored in your driver’s door for easy access.
  • Work gloves to protect your hands when fitting snow chains or cleaning windows.
  • A towing cable if you need help or to help others. 

6. Familiarize Yourself With Your BMW’s Winter Features

You already know your BMW is amazing, but familiarize yourself with the features that can help you drive more safely on icy roads. Most newer BMW models have xDrive all-wheel-drive systems, which improve traction by distributing the power between the front and rear wheels, reducing the risk of spinning and sliding off the road. 

Likewise, a cabin feature like a window demister and automatic wipers that sense ice cover can make all the difference in maintaining visibility on winter nights.  

7. Prepare Yourself to Drive Safely in Winter

The best protection you can give your beloved “beamer” is to be a safe all-weather driver. Ensure you take these steps to drive your BMW safely in snow and during ice buildup. 

  • Driver slower than the speed limit in snow and maintain a steady speed.
  • During extreme weather, keep a safe following distance of 5-10 seconds between you and the car ahead of you. 
  • Avoid braking suddenly, slow down for turns and don’t take sharp turns. 
  • If you live in a cold-weather state, consider taking a winter driving course to increase your knowledge and skills.  

Winterize Your BMW for Peace of Mind

Taking preventive steps before the cold hits is the best way to enjoy the season without worrying about snow or ice damage to your car. Start by checking all the vehicle fluids, such as antifreeze, engine oil and wiper fluid. Ensure your tires are winter-proof and protect your car from ice and sleet buildup with a properly insulated garage. 

Editorial

If I Owned a BMW Dealership, Here Are 5 Operational Changes I’d Make

My BMW is part of my family, so I want the best for repairs and maintenance schedules. Sadly, the local dealership isn’t always up to scratch, and that shows based on how few BMWs are roaming the streets in my town. 

Spending time at the car shop is far from enjoyable, so I’ve often wondered what I’d change if I were to take ownership.

1. Better CRM

I recall walking into the store about three months after I purchased my BMW 3 Series sedan, only to be greeted by unfamiliar faces. Because of the high staff turnover, nobody knew I was a returning customer. After spending far more than someone purchasing a Forte, I expected at least some recognition or for my customer file to be easily accessible.

This disconnect highlights why a robust customer relationship management (CRM) system is essential. It tracks clients and their journey, streamlines sales, and strengthens relationships. Clients don’t just buy a car and drive off into the sunset, never to be seen again. They return for services, upgrades and future purchases, and expect to be treated like valued, loyal customers.

A CRM that builds detailed client profiles — including the when, what, where and why of their purchase — can help dealerships anticipate future interest in trade-ins or deals. It’s a valuable investment that drives sales and nurtures a loyal customer base.

2. Integrated CRM and Online Presence

A CRM also integrates perfectly with a dedicated website, which is how I shop for cars. My 3 Series BMW purchase started as an online search. I browsed models and options from the comfort of my home, but when I decided I wanted a car quickly, I visited a local dealership.

It wasn’t their marketing or strategy that won my business — it was pure luck that they had the exact model and color I wanted on the lot. Meanwhile, the larger franchise would’ve needed time to source my dream car.

Businesses don’t thrive on luck alone. That’s why I want to create a shopping experience that starts online — where many car buyers begin — and transitions smoothly to the brick-and-mortar showroom. The overall atmosphere, personalized advice and attention to detail should make customers feel special when they walk through the door, sealing the deal.

3. Creature Comforts

The first time I went to the BMW dealership near me, I spent over an hour discussing the performance and specs of the model I liked. When I returned to my car, it had turned into an oven under the baking sun.

Exposure to harsh sunlight can fade paint colors and crack interior finishes, significantly lowering the vehicle’s value. Installing covered parking at the showroom protects both sale and visitor cars, keeping them in top condition while offering protection from hail and snow. I know I’d feel more confident taking my BMW in for service if it wasn’t left in the sun while waiting for me to pick it up.

4. Personalized Messaging System

When I’ve just spent a large chunk of my paycheck on a vehicle, I don’t want a message or email reading “Dear valued customer.” Generic promotional emails and text messages make me feel I could’ve purchased a mass-imported vehicle, not a state-of-the-art, state-of-my-budget luxury vehicle. Customer-centric service improves return sales by up to 90%, with satisfied buyers more likely to share their experience through word-of-mouth advertising.

I would design promotions that consider my customers’ vehicle needs. I’d ensure they knew about upgrades to their model’s onboard computer and when newer, relevant models hit the market. To help them feel like part of the BMW family, I’d share images of other happy clients who’ve joined the club.

5. Innovative Designed Interiors

I may decide to wait in the lobby or reception while the mechanic checks my car, so I’d want to lounge comfortably, surrounded by tasteful decor and innovative use of the brand and logo. I don’t want to slide past a dozen showcased cars on the cramped showroom floor, fearing I’ll scratch one in passing.

So, I’d implement BMW’s latest showroom strategies, which include a more minimalist showroom with five or six cars on display and luxurious seating for waiting customers. I’d also place some carefully selected car books to engage my waiting customers with quirky facts about parking and automotive tricks and secrets.

My BMW Dealership Vision

Dealerships thrive when they have customer loyalty, but this only happens when you offer something unique and personalized. After all, owning a luxury car is an experience worth celebrating.

My dealership would create exceptional customer journeys that help owners get the most out of their vehicles and maintain them in top condition for resale or trade-in. Having a BMW is all about being part of something great, and that’s the sensation the dealership should create.

The Ultimate BMW Forum