WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — BMW Financial Services unveiled a new app for Facebook called “The Ultimate Drive.” The community app is designed to allow drivers to share favorite routes and roads.

This is the first time a captive automotive finance company has offered a Facebook app for this purpose. The free app is available to all driving enthusiasts and existing BMW customers.

“Providing this Facebook app is a natural extension of our strategy to strengthen the community among BMW Financial Services customers,” said Ed Robinson, president and CEO of BMW Group Financial Services, Americas Region.

“As a globally-recognized brand, BMW leverages the Facebook platform, which having surpassed one billion users, has become the preeminent tool for online conversations.” The Ultimate Drive for Facebook features millions of miles of user-suggested driving routes, detailed descriptions, photos and user ratings. The Facebook app includes the ability to view routes using Google Street View.

“We’re impressed by the degree to which BMW has understood its drivers’ needs and embraced the Ultimate Drive community platform to the fullest,” said Daniel Pifko, CEO and co-founder of SocialNav Inc., the San Francisco-based company that worked with BMW Financial Services to create the technology powering The Ultimate Drive for Facebook.

The Ultimate Drive for Facebook also allows existing BMW Financial Services customers to generate a loyalty voucher worth up to $700 off the first finance or lease payment on a new 2012 or 2013 BMW. Up until the end of this year, users can claim this offer by reserving a test drive within the app.

“What better way to enjoy the perfect road than with your friends. We hope that The Ultimate Drive for Facebook will help fans of BMW share their passion within their social networks,” said Pawan Murthy, general manager of online business for BMW Financial Services.