BMW and Qualcomm have teamed up to develop a new technology that will provide driver comfort. The jointly developed Snapdragon Ride Pilot driver assistance system will be first used in the BMW iX3 electric SUV. This system will offer drivers features such as hands-free driving on the highway, automatic lane changes, and parking assistance.
Ride Pilot Will Provide Drivers with Comfort
The software suite, powered by the Snapdragon Ride on-chip system, will be officially unveiled at the IAA Mobility 2025 event. The system does not offer fully autonomous driving. Instead, it stands out as a Level 2+ driver assistance system. This means that even when the system is active, the driver remains responsible for controlling the vehicle and paying attention to the road.
The system combines both rule-based and AI-based models to plan behavior in complex driving scenarios. It also uses a 360-degree camera view package to detect objects, interpret traffic signs, and provide parking assistance.
This system, which Qualcomm calls a “security-first approach,” also includes cybersecurity features and complies with rigorous global vehicle safety standards.
Snapdragon Ride Pilot is now available to all automakers. Qualcomm states that the system has been approved in 60 countries worldwide and aims to be ready for use in more than 100 countries by 2026. This technology offers important insights into the future of driver assistance systems in the automotive industry.
