- Daimler AG and Google will collaborate to bring the most up-to-date in-car map displays to Mercedes-Benz cars.
- Mercedes-Benz will have access to the suite of application programming interfaces (APIs) known as Google Maps API for Business and have early access to new applications as they are developed.
- These services will be available to Benz drivers in the U.S. by the second quarter of 2012.
LAS VEGAS — Daimler AG and Google will collaborate to bring the most up-to-date in-car map displays to Mercedes-Benz cars, the companies announced Thursday at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
Mercedes-Benz has access to the suite of application programming interfaces (APIs) known as Google Maps API for Business. In addition, it will be granted early access to other new applications as they are developed. The partnership speeds up the integration process, bringing cutting-edge technologies to drivers more quickly.
Google and Daimler have a history together. In 2007, Daimler was the first automotive manufacturer in the United States to launch the Google "Send-to-Car" function in a vehicle. This allowed Mercedes-Benz drivers the ability to send destinations directly from Google Maps to their in-vehicle navigation systems.
By 2011, Mercedes-Benz drivers were able to send individualized routes from Google Maps to their cars. Daimler was the first-to market with the implementation of this Google service. In the second quarter of 2012, all these services will be available to Mercedes-Benz customers in the U.S.
Inside Line says: Those looking for direction can find it in a Benz.
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mcd0234 says:
09:09 PM, 01/14/2012
This is good news, they needed to catch up with BMW and Audi (the latter especially with the excellent nav graphics since the roll-out of the A8). MB's nav systems are starting to look very dated which isn't a good position to be in for a premium brand. Lots of stories about MB's infotainment but what they really need are bigger, better screens in their vehicles like right now and a better interface. Cloud crap is nice I guess when there is nothing left to add, but they need to get the fundamentals sorted first to catch up with their German friends/rivals.
johnmarco says:
08:36 AM, 01/13/2012
Looks like the days of DVD updates to nav may be numbered.