iDrive is an in-car communications and entertainment system, used to control most secondary vehicle systems in late-model BMW cars. It was launched in 2001, first appearing in the E65 7 Series. The system unifies an array of functions under a single control architecture consisting of an LCD panel mounted in the dashboard and a control knob mounted on the center console.
iDrive introduced the first multiplexed MOST Bus/Byteflight optical fiber data busses with very high bit rate in a production vehicle. These are used for high-speed applications such as controlling the television, DVD, or driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, infrared night vision or head-up display.
iDrive allows the driver (and, in some models, front-seat passengers) to control the climate (air conditioner and heater), audio system (radio and CD player), navigation system, and the communication system.
iDrive is also used in modern Rolls-Royce models, as Rolls-Royce is owned by BMW,[1] and in the 2019 onwards Toyota Supra which is a collaboration between BMW and Toyota.[2] BMW also owns the Mini brand, and a pared-down version of iDrive is available on those cars, branded as Connected.[3]