BMW 330Li ConnectedDrive feature withdrawn in India: What's the reason

Brochures of all models still talk about "ConnectedDrive" specifically. In the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine's manual, it can be found on page 11.

BHPian Impulsivemedusa recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hello Everyone,

I brought home a BMW 330 Li just a fortnight ago after extensive research from the forum. However, I am slightly disappointed that the forum so far hasn't discussed the (total lack of) connected features in the BMW.

While in India a lot of cars come with a "connected" tag just to show some mundane things like your fuel level, whether your car is unlocked (beats me as most cars lock themselves automatically) and such things (yes, you can get the thrill of asking Alexa or Google Home these things and get them as well).

BMW is different. Its on-board computer, when connected to the Internet, can take intelligent decisions like whether it can coast you on Eco Pro mode, can pre-condition the car (turn on A/C or warm it before you get in), integrate with your parking assistant to find parking information near your destination and so on. However, I was baffled to note that BMW has withdrawn ConnectedDrive features and the app is not downloadable in India any longer.

This is in spite of the fact that the brochures of all models still talk about "ConnectedDrive" specifically (In the 3 GL manual, it can be found on p-11). A mail to the organization just elicited a "caveat emptor" response. I wanted to know why they have withdrawn ConnectedDrive in India and their plans to get it back.

Just wanted to know from fellow BHPians if they have had this conversation with BMW and if they have had any responses. It is rather baffling that BMW would be starting to sell their electric vehicles based on their iDrive7 systems without connectivity!

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