BMW rolls out automated parallel parking feature for i3 with push-button

Luxury carmaker BMW reportedly demonstrated one of its self-driving feature that allows for automated parallel parking at the push of i3 button.

The new automated parallel parking system for the new i3 allows the driver to keep hands off the wheel and feet off the pedals while the car parks itself.

According to Cnet, once the driver of the i3 electronic car is ready to find a parking spot, he can push the button on the car's console after which, the car's ultrasonic sensors scan around and look for a space.

The open slot is then indicated on the car's main LCD and the driver is advised to put their foot on the brake as the car parks itself.

A BMW spokesperson said that the system could park in a space just 22 inches longer than the car itself.

However, the system needs to be optimized for real-world conditions as the system's ultrasonic sensors cannot detect no-parking zone and the driver needs to be judicious in deciding which spots to take.

The report added that BMW would launch the automated parallel parking feature as an option for the i3, and would roll out to other BMW models in the near future.