Why do something yourself when there are robots around?
BMW claims to be the first carmaker to use an automated optical-measuring system to generate virtual 3D models for development projects. The system uses robot arms with sensors to scan a car and take precise measurements, which are then used to generate the 3D model. BMW says this technology is being used to develop its next 5 Series sedan.
The optical measuring “cell” includes two robot arms mounted on rails that run parallel to the car being measured. Since the pair of robots can scan both sides of the car simultaneously, BMW says this setup provides optimal efficiency. Each robot is equipped with two sensors that scan parts of the vehicle in patches, which are then digitally stitched together to create a 3D model. The whole process takes a few days, and is fully automated.
Read more: Ford turns shipping containers into a mobile wind tunnel
BMW plans to use optical measuring to detect defects in cars as it transitions new models from development to production. It allows engineers to detect defects in early-build examples of those new models so that adjustments can be made before full-scale production starts. BMW believes the new measuring system will streamline this process by identifying defects quicker. It previously used the technology in toolmaking to measure parts and inspect tools.
The next-generation 5 Series replaces a model that has been on sale since 2011, so it’s about time for a redesign. Expect the new model to offer a range of turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, plus a first-ever plug-in hybrid version. The M5 performance model will return as well, and BMW may also offer an updated version of the ungainly 5 Series Gran Turismo hatchback.
Look for the new 5 Series at the 2016 Paris Motor Show this fall. It will likely go on sale next year as a 2017 model. More details will be revealed in the coming months.
BYD has launched the third-generation Qin Plus DM-i in China, and the first thing that caught my eye is its price. According to CarNewsChina, the plug-in hybrid sedan starts at 79,900 yuan, which is about $11,980. That’s an incredibly low price for a brand-new car, especially by US standards.
What’s even more impressive is the range. The Qin Plus DM-i can drive up to 137 miles on electricity alone, which should cover most people’s daily commutes without using a drop of gas. Once the battery runs out, the 1.5-liter engine takes over. Thanks to its 17-gallon tank and roughly 91 mpg with a drained battery, the combined range reaches up to 1,423 miles.
Apple won the PC market’s worst quarter, but that’s not the entire story. It won the race by stumbling less than everyone else.
PC makers shipped just 57 million computers worldwide in Q3, which might look good, but it’s a 21% year-over-year plunge (via Counterpoint Research). And despite Apple’s Mac shipments falling by 11%, to 5.6 million, its market share rose from 8.7% to 9.8%. How did that happen?
Update (October 22 23:54 PT): In response to our query, GM clarified that offline recording support is already available on eligible vehicles. Like Tesla's Sentry Mode, it requires owners to connect a USB drive to save incident recordings, which can be viewed on the vehicle's infotainment screen. The upcoming Connected Cameras feature will build on this by giving owners remote access to these recordings via the revamped OnStar app, allowing them to check footage without walking out to their car.
General Motors has announced plans to add a new Connected Cameras feature to its OnStar service starting next year, giving drivers a way to monitor parked vehicles remotely and capture footage of certain incidents.