My BMW App reveals drivers’ full carbon footprint for the first time

BMW expands My BMW App to display drivers' CO2 emissions from production and use, now available for selected models in Europe.

BMW has taken a decisive step toward climate transparency by introducing a personal carbon footprint feature in its My BMW App and MINI App. With this update, drivers can now track not only CO₂ emissions during vehicle use but also the emissions generated during production — from raw materials to final assembly.

According to Dirk Wiedmann, BMW’s Senior Vice President for Digitalization Strategy, the decision was driven by user demand: “Trip statistics are one of the most popular features. We’ve simply added a vital environmental dimension.”

This new feature stands out by covering the vehicle’s full life cycle. It draws on two primary indicators: driving-related emissions based on trip routes and energy consumption, and emissions linked to the manufacturing process. All figures are aligned with TÜV Rheinland-certified Vehicle Footprint Reports, adhering to ISO 14040/44 standards.

The tool is available for a wide range of drive systems — from internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids and fully electric models. For battery-electric vehicles, the app also shows the impact of switching from the average national energy mix to renewable electricity. In some cases, like the MINI Cooper E, life cycle CO₂ emissions are nearly half that of its combustion-engine counterpart.

Currently, the feature is rolled out only for certified models in select EU markets — including Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Supported models include the BMW 1, 2, 5, X2, X3, iX, and several MINI variants.

Also still available is the popular EV Analysis tool, which allows combustion-engine drivers to evaluate how well an electric BMW would match their driving habits. After at least 200 trips and 2,000 kilometers, the app estimates which routes could be covered on a single charge and shows charging stations near frequently visited locations.

User feedback has been mixed. Some appreciate the detailed stats, while others find the interface cluttered and question the practical value of the data. Still, interest in BMW’s digital sustainability tools continues to grow — with over 14 million users worldwide as of May 2025.

Whether these tools will change long-term driving behavior remains to be seen. But the first step toward awareness has been made — and such features may well become an industry standard in the years ahead.