Quote:
Originally Posted by ard
BMW has always given electronics very low respect- from their steadfast reliance on German companies who did not have 'best in class' capabilities, to 'low bid' navigation and car electronics/entertainment systems.
IMO, their DNA views this stuff as a 'necessary evil', and they simply do not give this all the attention it requires. Their failings with all things electronic- from comfort access systems that open windows and sunroofs in the rain on their own, to nav systems that are woefully inadequate, all step from an organization fault.
But, then again, maybe just bad luck.
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I partially agree. I think BMW gives engine electronics high respect. And chassis electronics. They give entertainment electronics (and they lump a lot of convenience items into 'entertainment' IMO), low respect. As you say, it is not part of their DNA. I suspect that many BMW engineers can't imagine that the features that some of today's customers (and the market) demand, are important to their traditional customer. I always thought it would be fun to sit in on the product planning meeting where BMW USA was trying to convince the product managers in Germany that they needed 13 or so cup holders in the new X5, to compete with the Escalade.
Personally, it doesn't bother me too much. I don't want navigation systems in my cars. Cars designed and built on a seven year release cycle will never be current with advances in electronics. I don't want cameras, front or rear or side. I don't want HUD, or active cruise. I want a basic stereo, with speakers on the left and the right. I am happy with two zone AC (not four), but that is about it. Memory seats are good, but I would be fine with leaving all those other preference items off the program. I have had comfort access, and used it, but wouldn't pay more for it, trading off convenience for reliability. I suspect that I would be welcomed with open arms by the bespoke BMW engineer who agrees with my priorities (even though I am in the minority).
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