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BMW Australia today announced plans to offer wireless internet functionality in its vehicles, making it the first car manufacturer to offer this ground-breaking technology.
Drivers and passengers will be able access the internet and email accounts via the BMW iDrive system, using an internet-capable mobile phone.
The system will operate only when the vehicle is stationary to avoid any driver distraction.
BMW Group Australia Managing Director Stavros Yallouridis, 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 Mr Yallouridis.
“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 will utilise the BMW iDrive controller as a computer mouse, to navigate, select and scroll through web content, in the same fashion as a desktop computer.
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 Mr Yallouridis.
Customers will be able to order BMW Internet from next month for delivery in 2010. The cost is $200, or $154 for vehicles below the Luxury Car Tax (LCT) threshold.
The BMW Group
The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. Revenues for 2009 totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.
The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.
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