BMW to introduce city-driving assistance system in Germany from 2027

German carmaker BMW plans to introduce new driver assistance functions in Germany from 2027 that work together with the navigation system and are designed for city traffic. Until now, partially automated driving has mainly been possible on motorways and rural roads; the new features extend it to urban streets.

What the system can do

The assistance system will help the driver turn at intersections, change lanes, observe right of way and negotiate roundabouts.

It is built on BMW's own Symbiotic Drive principle, which is based on close cooperation between driver and car. Even with the system switched on, the driver can still steer, brake and accelerate personally, adjusting the car's behaviour to their own driving style.

Driver responsibility remains

The system corresponds to SAE Level 2 automation (SAE is the engineering standards body that defines levels of driving automation). This means the driver must still monitor traffic and be ready to take over control when necessary.

Which models and when

The new functions will be available on the BMW iX3, iX4, X5, 3 Series and 7 Series. The required hardware will already be installed in these models, while the software can be activated after purchase through an over-the-air update.

After the launch in Germany, the company intends to offer the technology gradually in other countries as well. The source does not name specific countries or dates.