BMW shows Comfort-focussed mobility solutions at CES 2020

BMW has revealed several concepts at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show in LA, from chauffeur-spec i3s to the future of the interior. They aren’t the only German company at CES though, with Audi debuting their AI:ME autonomous vehicle.

BMW is already off to a strong a start with electric tech thanks to their i3 which has been around since 2013 and over 165,000 on the road, but the Bavarians are not resting on their laurels.

Enter the i3 Urban Suite, a rethink on the compact city machine that only leaves the dashboard and driver seat intact. Twenty i3s were converted to this specification and shipped to Los Angeles where the chauffeur piloted i3s can be summoned via an app and passengers can recline in comfort.

And, well, recline they can. The front passenger seat has been replaced by an ottoman and the rear bench now features a modernist lounge-chair with electrically adjustable backrest. Some beautiful wood panelling surrounds the chair, a place to rest bags or maybe cocktails, and has the appearance of a mid-century coffee table.

A chauffeur-driven i3 might not be a high demand vehicle, especially given the lack of autonomy, instead, it’s BMW showcasing their ability to blend luxury with sustainability.

If the i3 Urban Suite’s pews look a little too firm for you, don’t worry, BMW has developed a chair dubbed the ZeroG Lounger designed to show what the interior of near-future of autonomous vehicles will look like.

With the ability to recline up to 60º, the cocoon-like chairs will be installed in several X7s at CES. BMW have slatied these comfy chairs for production in the coming years.

For whatever reason the idea of zero gravity has caught the attention of those at BMW, roll on the conceptual i Interaction EASE display. Although not strictly automotive, the Bavarians claim it’s an indication on the future of intelligent mobility.

Step inside and all materials are recycled, there’s no leather here. The knitted surface is said to incorporate smart materials. The seats within will recline to a position that feels like an occupant is ‘floating’.

Naturally, 5G integration is on the cards as well. This is displayed in the i Integration EASE display, but BMW claims the tech will arrive with the briefly mentioned iNext model by 2021, making them the first brand to offer the tech.

5G isn’t only about a quick internet connection, it will make autonomous driving far more achievable. The high speeds achieved can easily position and direct vehicles, allow it to scan for traffic data and create a safer driving experience.

The displays at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show demonstrate the future possibilities of mobility. For better or worse, BMW thinks it’s one where driving is not the primary concern when in a vehicle.