VW, Google, Nvidia in partnership to develop in-car navigation system
AUBURN HILLS, Michigan - German auto giant Volkswagen's American division announced today that it was teaming up with search behemoth Google to produce a prototype vehicle equipped with Google's "satellite-mapping software" so that drivers can have a clear picture of what lies ahead on the road.
Video graphics maker Nvidia is also working with the two companies in this venture that aims to construct a navigation system that would allow drivers to view three-dimensional images and recognize exactly where they are in relation to their surroundings. Volkswagen's Electronic Research Lab based in Palo Alto, California is spearheading the project.
Arne Stoschek, the chief of display materials at the lab elaborated on what they envisioned, "It's not the way we actually perceive the environment. A photo representation of the surrounding environment with respect to the car is a much better way for navigation," he said, adding that people would be able to see the outside of the shop or building that they are looking for.
Google's role in the venture is to provide the software and the search engine layout from the Internet. Google Earth is to be the main source of the 3-D display. This particular software can be easily downloaded from the Mountain View, California-based Company's website and provides a bird's eye view of the landscape by combining road maps with satellite imagery.
The system operates in a simple manner. Once the driver types in his/her destination, a detailed route plus the best way to get there, traffic conditions and all other necessary information would be provided. "With this kind of system, you could see the hotel where you're staying, instead of just getting directions from A to B," Stoschek observed.
|
|
