What significant hardware step did BMW take in 2004 that moved the car toward being an independent IoT node?

Answer

Integrating a SIM card directly into some of its vehicles.

By integrating a SIM card in 2004, BMW meant the car held its own permanent identity on the network, allowing it to access services without relying on an external mobile phone.

What significant hardware step did BMW take in 2004 that moved the car toward being an independent IoT node?
inventionAutomobileVehicleconnectivity