BMW teases AirTouch technology, could debut in the new i8 Spyder

AirTouch works via gestures and will debut at the 2016 CES in Los Angeles

Overdrive|Dec 29, 2015, 15:01:54 IST

AirTouch technology takes the concept of a touchscreen display to a whole new level. From what we understand, you no longer have to physically 'touch' the screen. A year ago, BMW debuted its gesture control system in the brand new 7 Series which allowed touchless control for simple inputs like audio volume. AirTouch seems to be the next step.

The system works via sensors that detect hand movements made between the centre console and interior rear view mirror. BMW hasn’t elaborated on what the exact movements are but a simple gesture should allow you to browse menus while another gesture will enabling selecting a relevant menu item.

However, the technology doesn’t seem entirely touchless. A recessed AirTouch button resides on the rim of the steering wheel on the left side. The button lights up when a menu or icon is activated. A tap of this button can activate a program or change a setting. The passenger too has a similar button positioned in the door sill. So essentially one hand waves the inputs and the other taps a button to select them.

Tesla's Cybercab to feature built-in Starlink antenna, bringing satellite internet to robotaxis

Tesla has confirmed that its upcoming Cybercab will include built-in Starlink connectivity, allowing the autonomous vehicle to access satellite internet beyond traditional mobile networks. The move deepens ties between Elon Musk's companies while supporting Tesla's vision of self-driving robotaxis capable of operating across a wider range of environments.

3 min read

US rejects Tesla bid to avoid recall of nearly 20,000 vehicles over headlight issue

US auto safety regulators rejected Tesla's bid to avoid a headlight recall while a separate investigation found a driver overrode Full Self-Driving before a fatal crash.

1 min read

IIT Kanpur study finds no evidence E20 petrol damages engines, says mileage impact is minimal

Fresh research from IIT Kanpur challenges widespread claims that E20 petrol harms vehicle engines, concluding that the fuel blend causes no measurable engine damage and only a marginal impact on fuel efficiency. The findings come amid ongoing public debate over India's ethanol-blending programme and concerns raised by motorists.

2 min read

As Nissan expands its line-up from one model to four, the carmaker is betting on affordable SUVs, exports and ICE volumes before making its EV play

Nissan Managing Director Saurabh Vatsa explains why the Tekton SUV is central to the brand's India strategy, its export ambitions and why an EV launch will have to wait.

2 min read

Volkswagen layoffs could hit 1 lakh as CEO warns of deeper cost overhaul

Volkswagen is weighing further workforce reductions that could bring total job losses to around 1,00,000, according to an internal message from CEO Oliver Blume. The proposed restructuring comes as Europe's biggest carmaker grapples with shrinking profits, intense Chinese competition, tariff pressures and excess manufacturing capacity.

2 min read

Up Next

BMW teases AirTouch technology, could debut in the new i8 Spyder

Tags

Tesla's Cybercab to feature built-in Starlink antenna, bringing satellite internet to robotaxis

US rejects Tesla bid to avoid recall of nearly 20,000 vehicles over headlight issue

IIT Kanpur study finds no evidence E20 petrol damages engines, says mileage impact is minimal

As Nissan expands its line-up from one model to four, the carmaker is betting on affordable SUVs, exports and ICE volumes before making its EV play

Volkswagen layoffs could hit 1 lakh as CEO warns of deeper cost overhaul