AC Schnizter Upgrades BMW's iDrive. Sort of...

Since we're not sure this could be called a "tuning process" here's what the guys over at AC Schnizter came out with: a BMW iDrive modification that replaces the standard i-drive knob with a tiny aluminum wheel like controller. Fairly awkward we would say, especially if taking into account that this brings absolutely no modification to the way the system works, except the fact that it improves the central console's appearance. Sort of...

The German tuner says the new controller is electronically-mounted on the center console to give you access to the main functions without having to move your body.

"The controller is the central control unit of the i-Drive system in BMW vehicles. Ergonomically mounted on the central console, the rotary pushbutton can easily be operated with one hand by both driver and passenger. And the intelligent operating concept is now further enhanced by the new design AC Schnitzer cover."

"The new aluminium cover from AC Schnitzer is available for all BMW vehicles with the latest generation of i-Drive system. Naturally the familiar AC Schnitzer Aluminium Cover is still available for BMW vehicles with the previous generation of i-Drive system," the company said in a release.

BMW's iDrive was first introduced in September 2001 on the E65/E66 7-Series. It allows both the driver and passenger to browse among the main features of the car, including climate control, audio system, navigation system and communication straight from the console-mounted knob.

Overall, the system also consists of a large LCD display mounted at the top of the console. The last upgrade was launched in September 2008 and is offered on a wide range of models, including 1-Series E81/E82/E87/E88 manufactured from September 2008, 5-Series E60/E61 built and from January 2009 and 7-Series.