Monday, 18 June 2007
Mercedes reportedly teaming with Apple to develop navigation system
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Factory-installed navigation systems in vehicles are among the hottest luxury-oriented options available today, but some analysts and customers have questioned the value of paying multiple thousand dollar premiums for the manufacturer-developed technology. As reported last month by The View from Inside, aftermarket stand alone units exist at much lower prices and are often more current in terms of software. Shorter research and development times by dedicated navigation suppliers – such as Garmin – are primarily responsible for the lag in OEM units.
According to Leftlane News, however, Mercedes-Benz has commissioned Apple to create a new navigation system expected to debut for the 2009 model year. Once fitted in Mercedes products exclusively for six months, the technology will become available to other manufacturers.
Although details on the system are not known, Apple’s all-new iPhone – which uses Google Maps - probably provides the best glimpse. The Mercedes/Apple navigation system could potentially include Internet and email access, as well as the iTunes music jukebox.
Source: Leftlane News
Image: DaimlerChrysler media [Mercedes S-Class navigation]
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