MULTISTAGE DATA PURCHASE

A multistage information purchasing system comprises a vehicle onboard computer configured to arrange for the purchase of information through a wireless communications network. The vendor from whom the information has been purchased indicates a proximate docking station from which the purchased information is available and the vehicle is directed to that docking station. At the docking station, the consumer downloads the purchased information to the onboard computer for later manipulation or use. Alternatively, the consumer may abort the transaction if it is inconvenient to travel to the docking station.