Google and Volkswagen to engineer navigation system

Googlewagen...Volksoogle. Whatever they call it I'm sure it will be cool. Last Friday Volkswagen's American unit announced it was working on a prototype vehicle that would feature Google's satellite mapping software (seen in Google Earth) in order to provide drivers with a bird's eye view of the surrounding area.

Graphics chipmaker, NVIDIA, is also working with the two companies to build an in-car navigation system that will allow drivers and passengers to view surrounding topography via a three-dimensional display.

The prototype car was displayed at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas last month.

"A spokesman for the automaker said there were no definite plans to use the technology inside cars," according to Reuters. "But the collaboration between the automaker and Google shows the progress the Web search leader is making expanding beyond the computer realm."

I don't see why Google doesn't just forget Volkswagen and make it's own car. You know everyone would buy one (because they'd probably be free). I heart Google.