In-car internet coming to BMWs

BMW New Zealand has announced plans to offer wireless internet functionality in its vehicles. Drivers and passengers will be able to access the web and email via an internet-capable mobile phone, with the car’s iDrive display screen acting as the computer monitor, and the iDrive joystick operating as a mouse.

To avoid any driver distraction, BMW’s in-car internet system will only work when the car is in “Park”.

BMW Group New Zealand Managing Director Mark Gilbert said the announcement opens a new chapter in vehicle infotainment system technology.

“BMW has always been at the forefront of technological innovation and we continue that tradition by offering full in-car access to the internet,” said Gilbert. “For many of us, the internet is an integral part of our daily lives which is why the ultimate driving machine must fully support, and be compatible with, our information and communication needs,” he said.

The system also allows a direct interface with the Bluetooth and BMW Navigation System Professional for the purpose of calling numbers or inputting addresses, sourced from the internet.

“The beauty of this system is in its simplicity, utilising the driver’s internet capable mobile phone,” said Gilbert.

Customers will be able to order BMW Internet from September onwards for delivery in November 2010.

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