BMW's new 5-series sedan comes equipped with a unique feature that enables the driver to change lanes through gesture control. This system, named Highway Assistant, enables the driver to go long distances on major highways without using the pedals or steering wheel. The feature adds to the growing trend of similar systems provided by automakers, but it goes a step further: a driver can change lanes solely by gesturing at one of the outside mirrors.
Most other similar systems require the driver to request the lane change either through the turn signal or by allowing the car to suggest the move. With BMW's Highway Assistant, if the car's automated driving system suggests a lane change, the driver simply needs to look at the corresponding side mirror, and the car promptly responds. A camera placed behind the steering wheel captures the driver's gaze to determine which direction they look.
The same camera also verifies that the driver is watching the road at all times. If not, a warning will flash, and the system will not work. In a scenario where the driver seems incapacitated, the car will come to a halt, with the hazard lights lighting up.
If the car has not recommended a lane change, the driver can still initiate one by tapping the turn signal stalk to indicate which direction they want to move. The system uses various sensors to detect if it's safe to change lanes and whether there are any incoming vehicles at high speed. Once it determines that the road is clear, the car switches to the desired lane with no input from the driver.
The new BMW 5-series will get powered by several gasoline engines come October, including a fully electric model. The electric version, the i5 eDrive40, has an estimated range of 295 miles on a single charge and will retail at $67,000. A plug-in hybrid of the same model will be available next year.