BMW could expand car-sharing scheme

* Short term, pay-as-you-use rental scheme * Costs from 25p per minute * Part of investment in mobility services...

BMW could expand car-sharing scheme

BMW is looking to expand its Germany-based car-sharing scheme across the UK.

The initiative is currently available only in Munich, and offers access to 300 1 Series models for use throughout the city.

Drivers register with BMW dealers, and are able to locate cars through mobile phone app. Each user is given a unique PIN code, which is required to start the vehicle.

Tony Douglas, marketing innovation manager for BMW, said that the scheme was going to be introduced to Berlin and that there was a 'strong possibility' it could be extended to UK cities, including Birmingham, London and Manchester.

The service is part of BMW's wider investment in mobility services such as 'My London Way', which uses traffic cameras to give information on the best route to take through the city.

The manufacturer has also invested in parking website ParkAtMyHouse.com, which matches homeowners looking to let a private parking space with motorists looking for a convenient and cost-effective place to park.