The BMW i Vision Dee says hello to Singapore

Singapore - The BMW i Vision Dee, which is a preview of tech which (in the bestest of ways) might appear in BMW’s revived Neue-Neue Klasse. We got a walk-around session at the Mediacorp Theatre today, and here are some of the pictures.

“Dee” which stands for Digital Emotional Experience, is a  “traditional-shaped” three box sedan, is a nod to past models, featuring traditional design elements like the signature Hofmeister Kink, twin circular headlamps and forward leaning grille with closed kidneys, all of which have been re-interpreted. First presented in January at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023 in Las Vegas, the i Vision Dee is BMW’s vision for mobility in the future.

But while this prototype will not see production, it is intended to be a showcase how a vehicle can be designed for all senses. In-essence, it is positioned to be the “ultimate companion” for owners. Featuring BMW’s minimalist Shy Tech, which we first saw in the BMW iX, it brings with it new levels of interaction, which includes nine different facial expressions, and the ability to comprehend human dialogue, even on the outside. It also can recognise users approaching, where it is able to automatically open its doors.

BMW’s commitment of having driver-focused cars is also evident. Its advanced Head-Up-Display, which can be tweaked in up to five different levels, by way of the Mixed Reality Slider, ensures that eyes are always kept on the road.

What is missing from the car on display is the E Ink technology, which allows you to select from a palette of 32 different colours, animations and even messages. The BMW i Vision Dee’s body surface is divided into 240 E Ink segments, where each segment can be controlled individually.

"The future of the BMW Group is electric, circular and digital,” said Lars Nielsen, Managing Director of BMW Group Asia. “The electric future is clearly visible through our range of BMW i vehicles that have been launched, such as the BMW iX, i7 and iX3, and those that will be launched in the coming years. The BMW i Vision Circular, showcased in 2021, represents the BMW Group's project to become the most sustainable manufacturer for individual premium mobility.

The BMW i Vision Dee, which we are thrilled to showcase for the first time in Southeast Asia, exemplifies the full potential of digitalisation that will transform the car into an intelligent companion. It demonstrates what is possible when hardware and software merge and is about the perfect integration of virtual and physical experiences.”

There will be a public viewing of the BMW i Vision Dee, from 10am to 10pm daily, at BMW Joy Electrified at Suntec City Atrium (Convention Centre), from 27 to 30 July 2023. Matthias Junghanns, Director Automotive Design, BMW Designworks Shanghai, who was Head of BMW i Interior Design in his previous role, will be delivering presentations on all event days, at 12pm, 4pm and 8pm.

Visitors can learn more about BMW’s talking car, and also snag a test drive of the latest range of BMW i vehicles.

TEXT & PHOTOS Clifford Chow