Tuesday 12th April 2005

BMW adds hotspots to dealerships

But only three, and it's not free.

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BMW 320Cd -- surf while it's serviced

Three London BMW dealerships are to offer a wireless hotspot service -- but while the coffee is free, you'll have to pay for broadband, despite the BMW price premium.

BMW claimed to be the first major car manufacturer to introduce Wi-Fi internet access in its UK dealerships. This means BMW customers can browse the Web, check emails and access their corporate network when while their cars are serviced. The Wi-Fi service, also known as wireless broadband, is being provided by BT Openzone and will be available in three BMW-owned London dealerships.

Access points called ‘hotspots’ have been installed by BT and, when in range, customers can use their Wi-Fi enabled laptop or PDA to securely log on to their corporate network. Customers can also receive free coffee, newspapers and massages to help them relax. BMW said it is part of its premier Fast Track service which aims to service, repair and valet customers’ cars within an hour.

In addition to BMW owners, potential customers viewing the cars on show and guests attending the high-profile events held at the dealerships will now also be able to take advantage of BT Openzone.

Customers can use BT Openzone in the Park Lane, Westminster and Nine Elms BMW centres. To use the service customers need a Wi-Fi enabled laptop or PDA and a BT Openzone voucher or subscription. Staff at the BMW dealerships have been fully trained to provide support and help people use the service.

BT's Openzone site allows you check for your closest hotspot.

 

[PetrolTed]

Bit petty to charge for it.

[Donut]

PetrolTed said:

Bit petty to charge for it.

Would seem to, but then it would depend on how much it costs to install and use?

I'm sure if it proves to be very popular then it will be introduced across the network and be free to customers.

[manek]

I'd have thought that you could install one of these systems inside £1,000 -- say £1,500 -- including hardware plus a couple of hours' labour (sorry, consultancy) time at the most.

In other words, at a conservative four customers/day buying an hour each at BT's standard £6/hr, it's quids in after two or three months. Ever felt ripped?

>> Edited by manek on Tuesday 12th April 14:09

[Donut]

manek said:

I'd have thought that you could install one of these systems inside £1,000 -- say £1,500 -- including hardware plus a couple of hours' labour (sorry, consultancy) time at the most. In other words, at a conservative four customers/day buying an hour each at BT's standard £6/hr, it's quids in after two or three months. Ever felt ripped? >> Edited by manek on Tuesday 12th April 14:09

But another £6 an hour on the labour charge when your car is serviced would make you feel ripped if you didn't use the service though.

But as I said if it proves to be popular and it generates more business then I'm sure just like the coffee it will become free!!

[john_p]

With BMW dealers charging >£100 per hr I'd expect free Internet!

[Scoobz]

When the majority of tinpot coffee shops here in Seattle give you free wireless and don't even expect you to buy a coffee, charging is indeed a tad petty...