Every driver has been in a situation where it's just not clear if passing another car is a good idea. BMW is working on a new technology to help drivers better assess their passing opportunities: Dynamic Pass Predictor (DPP). Using digital map data, the DPP will let you know what's coming up on the road ahead.

DPP calculates passing conditions using road geometry data, the speed of your vehicle, and sensor-generated speed information about the vehicle ahead. With this information, the navigation system screen visually highlights the road sections that would require a driver's increased attention. This is especially useful in case of sharp turns, junctions, or speed limit changes. Though DPP can tell you when it's not safe to pass, it can't recommend passing, since it can't detect oncoming traffic.

BMW Group is working on DPP with NAVTEQ Electronic Horizon, the company providing the digital map data to fully develop the application. There's no announce date as yet for when the technology will be available.

To read more about car safety technology, click here.