Internet now available in BMW cars

AUSTRALIAN BMW customers will be able to surf the internet using the vehicle’s dashboard-mounted information display screen from next month.

The company has announced that customers with a suitable screen, iDrive system and internet capable mobile phone will be able to buy wireless internet functionality.

It will cost $200, although that is reduced to $154 for vehicles that slip in below the luxury car tax.

The system will allow BMW customers to access the internet and email, although drivers will only be able to view the web and email pages when the vehicle is stationary.

BMW’s iDrive controller effectively will be used as a computer mouse, and the customer will be able to navigate through web content much like they would with a regular computer.

BMW Australia managing director Stavros Yallouridis said BMW Australia was opening a new chapter in vehicle information 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,” Mr Yallouridis said.

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