BMW Night Vision: Introduction

Option 611 "BMW Night Vision" is available for the first time in the BMW 7-Series from 10/2005.

BMW Night Vision is a driver support system providing assistance in night vision.

BMW Night Vision aims to enhance active safety in darkness. In this way it augments the main-beam assistant and the adaptive headlights. BMW Night Vision makes it possible to look further ahead at night and in twilight conditions.

With a range of up to 300 metres, objects are detected very early. The system's range depends on weather conditions.

BMW Night Vision works using "long-range infrared". In contrast, other automobile manufacturers use "short-range infrared".

Studies have shown that "long-range infrared" best satisfies the following requirement: Early detection of persons and objects on the display in darkness.

BMW Night Vision is a passive system without active infrared lighting. This means that no additional headlights are needed.

The night-vision camera generates an abstract but clearly more symbolic black-and-white image. The selection of a passive system was a strategic decision by BMW.

Additional functions such as zoom and panning increase comfort.

Vehicles with rear entertainment system: No provision is made for BMW Night Vision on the rear display.

BMW Night Vision offers the following customer benefits: 

• Improved vision in twilight and darkness
• Display not dazzled by the headlights of oncoming vehicles
• Pronounced highlighting of persons, animals and warm objects
• Greater overview of driving situation due to display of course of road beyond that illuminated by headlights
• Magnified image of distant objects when driving fast through zoom function
• Improved recognition of objects on bends in the road through horizontally adjustable image section
• Enhanced personal safety on dark driveways and garage entrances through display of living creatures