Like Jaguar and Mercedes BMW is planning on introducing full LCD gauges on it’s higher priced models. According our friends at Autoblog the new technology will be introduced in the 5 and 7 Series during their mid life-cycle refresh in the next 2-3 years. What does this mean for MINI? BMW is consistent with it’s approach of introducing new technology in higher-end models about 3-5 years before proliferating it throughout it’s line-up. We believe this could put this technology into the fourth generation MINI near 2020 in a worst case scenario and possibly even sooner. Given the current 5 and 7 series gauges integrating LCD technology already it seems like a natural extension. However what we find interesting in the Autoblog story is the thought that BMW won’t simply be replicating the same analogue gauges in LCD form. Instead BMW intends on looking at the space as a ‘blank canvass’ to allow for better use of the space and better automotive-grade usability. Our sources have told us not to expect something entirely new and/or radical but instead look for smart ways to extend information given to the driver. We can’t help but think this type of thinking would fit well within MINI’s current and future design language. While BMW plans on allowing the user to customize the data and look slightly, there is a concern that allowing too much freedom would cause usability concerns. Therefore look for user control to be present but kept to a minimum. The 7 Series refresh is scheduled to be the first time we’ll see this new technology. Look for a debut sometime late next year.
It would only be better if BMW was smart and programmed it so the user could make changes based on needs..... Things that come to my mind, all done with software.... A track option that keeps lap times.... A GPS option that flips the screen to show a google maps... A default setting that alerts the driver to a engine problem where the screen changes to say warn of an over heating issue.... An option that keeps track of engine operation perimeters..... Fault codes that display themselves. Kind of a built in Scangauge.... Basically get rid of the center stack location for the information screen and put it all right in front of the driver. Something to be said for eliminating a pointer swinging on a pin driven by a coil and magnet. A LCD screen will always be faster than a mechanical gauge. And changeable with software upgrades. Basically take it beyond just imitating an analogue gauge....
They'd have to go a long way to better what Lexus has been doing since 1989 with their electroluminescent gauges - look at what they did with the LFA's instruments - all done digitally but with analog readouts - for example the tach display changes color to red as it gets close to redline and so on - very cool stuff! [ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-1OK1kcFIA&feature=related]YouTube - Lexus LF-A Ultra Cool Meter Panel‏[/ame]
I don't know if you all noticed in that short clip I posted for the LFA, there were settings for lap time, rev limiter and many more....