While self-driving cars are quickly becoming a staple of every major manufacturer, BMW is kicking up the competition with a high-speed self-driving, self-drifting car.
BMW unveiled the vehicle for the first time this week at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show.
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The German auto manufacturer debuted two models with the new technology from two of its newest product lines, the 2-Series Coupe and 6-Series Coupe. The M235i in the video from the CES demo raced around the track and drifted into turns at high-speed with a passenger aboard.
A combination of tech — including a LIDAR (light radar) system, onboard cameras, sonic sensors and 360-degree radar, along with electronic throttle, braking and steering (standard equipment on new BMWs) — allow the car to tackle high-speed tracks while performing multiple functions like switching lanes, avoiding obstacles and drifting turns autonomously.
BMW’s self-driving system has already racked up about 9,000 miles of real-world driving time through cities and on the speed-limitless autobahn at up to 80 miles per hour, surrounded by other cars.