Modern cars become more and more loaded with novel technology, and a prime example of that is BMW, who is offering a special ‘Remote Engine Start’ feature for select models with its iDrive Operating System 7.0 and Remote Software Upgrade functionality.
Remote Engine Start is available in the facelifted 5-Series and new M5 / M5 Competition and will also be used by the new 4-Series. The system allows the vehicle owner to start the engine for up to 15 minutes at a time from any location through the BMW ConnectedDrive App. This allows for the cabin conditions to be optimized before the driver and occupants enter the car.
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BMW says the function can also be enabled via the car’s key at a range of between 30-70 meters (98-229 feet). If the vehicle in question has features like seat heating, seat ventilation and steering wheel heating, these functions can also be toggled remotely. Remote Engine Start will be particularly useful in hot and cold climates, where the owner may want to pre-heat the interior or cool it down before stepping inside.
Vehicles that leave the BMW factory without the function but with the Remote Software Upgrade can be equipped with it through the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. A plethora of models can be equipped over-the-air with the system. These include the 320i, 330i, and M340i models produced since July 2019, the entire 4-Series Coupe range built from July 2020, 520i and 530i models from July 2020 onwards as well as 740i, 740Li, and 840i models built from July 2019. It is also available on post-July 2019 Z4 models, and post-August 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i and X6 xDrive40i models.
