Mirrorless Bimmers Expected by 2019

BMW AG plans to introduce a model that uses video cameras in place of traditional rearview mirrors before the end of the decade. The carmaker displayed the technology on its i8 Mirrorless concept vehicle earlier this month at the CES electronics show in Las Vegas.

Mirrorless systems will be launched on an unnamed high-end model and eventually be used throughout BMW’s lineup, BMW development chief Elmar Frickenstein tells Germany’s Focus magazine. He notes that rearview video cameras also can be used for advanced driver assistance systems to help spread the cost of the technology.

The i8 Mirrorless concept includes two rear-facing exterior side cameras and one interior camera. The video feeds from the cameras are integrated into a single image, which is displayed on a high-resolution screen positioned where the interior rearview mirror usually is located. This provides drivers with a panoramic view and larger field of vision without any blind spots.

In addition to safety benefits, BMW says, using cameras in place of mirrors can improve vehicle aerodynamics. Several other carmakers have shown similar systems in recent concept cars.