RENTAL customers in Germany and the UK will be able to book car hire - and buy ex-rental vehicles - via their TV screens.

European daily rental giant Avis Europe is launching the service and has not ruled out expanding it into other countries. The service takes advantage of digital cable TV technology to enable customers able to find information on Avis car rental, make a reservation or buy an Avis ex-rental car. Avis will extend the service to offer online quotes and bookings for cars worldwide. (August 2000)