Already a highlight that promised excitement and driving pleasure at its launch in November 2022, BMW M Mixed Reality now reaches the next level: the revolutionary driving experience, in which the vehicle itself becomes the controller, not only merges the real world with the virtual world even more seamlessly with its latest extension. It also offers the possibility of a multiplayer mode for the first time – all wrapped up in a completely new, digital BMW M world whose map can be driven on multiple floors.
We want to combine the ultimate driving pleasure offered by BMW M models with the limitless possibilities of the virtual world.
Multiplayer driving fun on the rooftop.
The possibilities of virtual reality seem boundless: on a secret mission, users enter the BMW M Garage to get all the way to the top of the BMW M Rooftop Circuit from there. Surrounded by skyscrapers, two BMW M Mixed Reality players now race against each other virtually in a multiplayer mode. A new feature is that spectators with personified avatars can virtually watch the race live from the BMW M Mixed Reality Bridge. They do not have to be physically present in the area where the multiplayers are driving. They can be virtually connected using devices like the Meta Quest or Apple Vision Pro.
M Mixed Reality – how does it work?
In order to transfer position and movement to the virtual world and to reach a perfect immersion, very precise GPS positioning on the road surface is necessary. Every acceleration, every turn and every braking manoeuvre is transmitted to the virtual world without latency thanks to precise sensor technology and signal processing. Not only the movements of the vehicle are transmitted, but also those of the driver. The technology for this is already integrated into the standardised in-vehicle systems of all BMW and BMW M automobiles. These systems are so precise that no additional sensors are required.
Another key element is the VR headset that the driver wears to experience the digital world. This headset will be connected to the vehicle's internal systems in order to synchronise movements and data in real time. Thanks to this equipment, various BMW M models can be used for BMW M Mixed Reality, regardless of the drive system. This includes vehicles with a conventional combustion engine, such as the BMW M2 or BMW M4, as well as models with a fully electric powertrain, such as the BMW i5 M60. More M models will follow.
Mixed Reality as a digital enabler.
BMW Group Mixed Reality is an answer to what future virtual experiences in the automotive sector can look like. At the current stage of development, it enables perfect controllability in every driving situation. Drifting will also be possible in the future, although no date has yet been set for when it will be able to have this experience.
