A prototype has been developed by Bmw Group Research and Technology for a multifunctional car key which allows cashless payment and customized access to the vehicle. “As part of our research project we first integrated a security chip into the key casing, which communicates across short distances by radio with a card reader,” says Hans-Jörg Vögel, project manager at Bmw Group Forschung und Technik.

The key can also be utilized for other transport systems in the future. The feasibility of storing electronic tickets for bus, train and air travel on the chip is within reach. Electronic fund transfers for payments can be done fast, safe, and comfortably from the prototype key. Details and photos after the jump!

Providing a customized credit card function to the car key brings in a myriad of other mobility possibilities. For instance, the owner of the key can enjoy secure in-car access to private data because the key provides the driver access to his customized ConnectedDrive services inside a Bmw and not only in his own car, but also from a rental Bmw. In this one, the driver identifies himself utilizing his personal key and the car automatically adopts his personalized settings. Data access to address books, favorite radio stations and personal subscriptions to services and content providers is turned on via the multifunctional key.

Since the identity of the driver can be identified with total certainty, the key can now be connected to the car owner rather than just any specific car. This will make car sharing even more convenient.

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