BMW has partnered with Vodafone Germany to fit adapted mobile SIM chips into its ConnectedDrive cars. Intended to improve safety, traffic avoidance and motoring efficiency, the Vodafone SIM will provide customers with access to in-car services, including BMW Online Services; a personal concierge service for BMW drivers; and an automatic emergency call function.

“Our services facilitate networked driving and provide a driving experience that goes far beyond conventional mobility,” says Jan Geldmacher, Vodafone Germany CCO enterprise, “The co-operation with BMW positions us well in the lucrative automotive sector, one of the key M2M communication markets, and enables us to effectively demonstrate our global competence.”

The companies have signed a five year agreement, with Vodafone providing M2M service, and all of BMWs cars, starting in the summer, being fitted with the SIMs at the assembly stage. And its a hardy bit of kit – according to Vodafone, the SIM has a lifespan of more than ten years, can withstand temperatures from -40 to 85°C and is coated with anti-corrosive protection.