If your BMW X1 already has an inbuilt full colour display just like the one you see in this video, you can add an integrated rear view camera system, otherwise known as reverse camera. Generally, the best position for the actual rear camera is just above the number plate at the rear of the car, which is the same position used for the genuine BMW rear camera system. When your car is in reverse, the camera image will display automatically. This particular system comes complete with dynamic guidelines which move with the steering position, and show the vehicle trajectory when reversing.

Here are 2 of the points you might consider if you want to add a rear view camera system to your vehicle:

1. Would you prefer an integrated solution or a stand-alone system?

There are options such as replacement mirror or mirror overlay systems which can display the rear camera image on the rear view mirror. We would normally consider these to be a stand-alone, or non-integrated system. There are 2 main factors that would normally influence your choice here, one being whether or not you have an existing factory OEM display, and the other being cost. If your X1 does not have an existing full colour display, you can add one in, and this will also give you the ability to add other infotainment features such as navigation, and video playback. In reality, it is not generally worthwhile to install an additional screen if you just want a rear view camera system, so in this case you could use the rear view mirror system. We won’t expand on rear view mirror systems too much here.

Generally, the preferred option is the fully integrated solution. A fully integrated solution, like the one you see in this video, utilises a large full colour display which will generally provide a much more detailed image. For some smaller objects which might be harder to see, a larger screen is a major advantage. Features such as dynamic guidelines are also generally only available in fully integrated solutions, as they require connection to the data systems in the vehicle, and are also much more effective on a larger display.

2. What type of camera should you use?

There are a few things you might consider here.

  • How does the camera system perform in different lighting situations?
  • How reliable is the camera system, and how long will it last?
  • Is camera water resistant?
  • Is the camera positioned correctly to give you the best rear view?
  • Is the camera installed so that it will not have any adverse affects on the vehicle or other systems in the vehicle.

Briefly, there a thousands of camera systems out there. We believe that all of the above points are relevant and important, and we always test our camera systems against these criteria before releasing them as a product. The camera systems that we choose have passed testing consistent with the above points and offer excellent image quality, integrated look and durable design. We hope to delve further into more technical specifications in another post.

For more information about this integrated solution, check out the dedicated product page.