Safety System for BMW Cars

BMW estimates it will fit 30,000 cars with its Connected Drive safety
and navigation device this year.

The system works using an embedded navigation device, which knows the
exact location of the car at all times.

Depending on the level of information or help required, the driver can
use the system to contact the emergency services, BMW's breakdown
service or a BMW call centre for local information such as the
location of a restaurant or cinema.

If the car is involved in an accident where an airbag is deployed, the
system will automatically contact the emergency services. If the
emergency operator doesn't receive feedback from the car's occupants,
they will then be sent the car's exact location.

Drivers of cars fitted with Connected Drive can also use the system to
alert the emergency services if they see an accident, allowing them to
exactly pinpoint where it has happened.

In addition, the system allows drivers to browse Google maps at home
or work and send route information to the car's sat-nav via a
dedicated website. Owners can also use the website to set up RSS news
feeds that will be sent direct to their car.

Connected Drive will be supplied as standard with all BMWs equipped
with satellite-navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.