Audi A8 gets Googled
* A8 will surf the web in 2010 * Uses mobile phone connection * Google Earth on the sat-nav...
Web giant Google has found a new outlet: the sat-nav system of the Audi A8.
Audi's luxury flagship A8 is no stranger to the most high-tech advances. Next year, customers will be able to upgrade Audi's MMI (multi-media interface) navigation system to include internet connectivity.
The MMI system will search Google for points of interest, so users can type in 'shoe boutique' or 'kebab shop', with results displayed on the map or as destinations for the sat-nav.
Owners will also be able to plan routes using Google Maps or the Audi web portal from home or the office, then retrieve them once in the car.
The world in your car
In the middle of 2010 Audi will launch a new modem, allowing faster data transfer, as well as letting drivers use the phone and web at the same time. Google Earth, the searchable satellite view of the whole world, will also be made available in the Audi A8.
This means that drivers will be able to explore the earth in a three-dimensional view from inside the car, as well as the associated photographs and articles on Google Earth.
How does it work?
Drivers either slot their existing mobile phone SIM card into the MMI Navigation Plus system, or pair it with their phone using Bluetooth.
How much will it cost?
Online connectivity in the Audi A8 is included as part of a phone upgrade costing 750.
