Mapbox Enhances BMW and MINI Navigation Experience with 3D Visualization, Charging-Optimized Route Planning, and Unique Design Features

By Brian K. Neal

The BMW Group is poised to redefine the in-car navigation landscape with the introduction of new models featuring BMW/MINI Operating System 9, boasting a groundbreaking navigation system backed by Mapbox. The upgraded features encompass an immersive 3D map style with intricate building details and dynamic lighting, coupled with advanced navigation functionalities like charging-optimized route planning. The inaugural launch of this cutting-edge navigation system is scheduled for the BMW X1 and the new MINI Family, with subsequent rollouts including models such as the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and BMW X2.

Mapbox stands as a pivotal collaborator for the BMW Group, contributing to an in-car experience that surpasses both smartphone applications and conventional in-car navigation systems in terms of capability and design. Specifically, Mapbox provides advanced map styling tools, 3D building data, and a high-performance map rendering engine. This collaboration affords BMW the flexibility to seamlessly integrate data from diverse sources, ensuring continuous and frequent updates.

Stephan Durach, SVP at BMW Group, highlighted the importance of meeting BMW customers’ expectations for a navigation experience that aligns with the brand’s exceptional standards. He emphasized the need for an experience rivaling smartphone accuracy while seamlessly blending with BMW’s iconic design and integrating with in-car systems such as the EV drivetrain and audio. Durach stated, “Mapbox offers the ideal technology that enables us to fulfill these dual objectives.”

Recognizing the evolution set by navigation apps on mobile phones, the integration of Mapbox directly into vehicles takes it a step further, especially for electric vehicles (EVs). Both MINIs and BMWs will leverage Mapbox for EV services tailored to the specific needs of EVs, including range prediction and EV-optimized routing. The charging-optimized routes, integrated into the BMW and MINI navigation experience, take into account vehicle characteristics, road data, and charging station information to help drivers plan safer, more efficient, and personalized trips.

Mapbox services seamlessly integrate with BMW Group’s cloud systems, allowing for the surfacing of custom content relevant to drivers, such as partner charging locations and certified service centers. Even in cellular dead zones, the vehicle predictively downloads map data, ensuring uninterrupted navigation.

In the cockpit, BMWs and MINIs feature distinctive display form factors, with Mapbox’s adaptable and high-performance map rendering technology serving as the preferred solution. This technology allows BMW to optimize each pixel, delivering a visually stunning experience across various screen layouts and map styles. For instance, the new MINI offers seven different map styles that dynamically adjust to a driver’s choice of infotainment theme.

Michael Würtenberger, Vice President of Business Line My Journey at BMW Group, highlighted the unique flexibility from Mapbox, stating, “Everything in the cabin changes based on the active Experience Mode—the lights, the sounds, and thanks to unique flexibility from Mapbox, the navigation changes too.”

Peter Sirota, CEO of Mapbox, outlined the company’s vision to empower customers with exceptional navigation experiences reflecting each brand’s uniqueness. Sirota emphasized that this collaboration with BMW is just the beginning, with Mapbox technology facilitating rapid iteration and continuous enhancement of the navigation system, ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation even after launch.