BMW has announced details of the world's first in-car communications centre featuring on-line access.

Acting like a newspaper, on-line directory, personal assistant and virtual co-driver all rolled into one, drivers and passengers can stay in touch wherever they go in the UK.

BMW Online became available on Monday, to coincide with the UK launch of new 730d and 760i/Li models. Initially available as an option across the 7 Series range, the system allows drivers and passengers to access news and business information, and to send and receive email without leaving their vehicle.

It uses a dedicated BMW portal which links to selected on-line partners Michelin, The Press Association and Dun & Bradstreet. As well as access to key data and market information, these partners open up leisure info including places of interest, theatres, restaurants, cinemas and weather forecasts.

The package is interactive too, with links from BMW Online to the in-car telephone and GPS satellite navigation.

It is activated via the vehicle's iDrive system, with information and images delivered straight to the car's on-board monitor.

7 Series customers specifying BMW Online as an option must also have an in-car phone and GPS navigation system. It will be available at a cost of £450 (inc VAT) which includes a year's subscription to the service.