Google Maps may not be the world's best Best map system, but it is perhaps the world's most available. If you are online, you probably have access to Google Maps
Google Maps in the car is based on mobile technology. You need a separate SIM card that can handle data traffic, as well as a favorable agreement with the mobile company. I have tested Google Maps in an Audi A3 e-tron equipped with Audi's navigation system and Audi Connect. There is a box in the glove compartment where you can push in the SIM card.
My purpose was to bring up Google Maps on the screens in the dashboard. I entered the PIN code and after a few seconds I got a list of all the services Audi Connect offers. Audi Connect consists of several nifty solutions in the interface between car and owner, which are probably more or less the same as those offered by other car manufacturers. It is worth mentioning Google-based info on traffic flow. But now I chose to only test Google Maps. Currently, I do not know if there are others than Audi Connect that offer this.
Google Maps means that the car's navigation system uses Google's maps instead of its own. Three-dimensional graphics show the buildings along the road. Display of three-dimensional buildings is also found in Audi's own maps, but is not as well developed and as lifelike as in Google. I am fascinated by Google's StreetView function which gives the opportunity to study the surroundings. But I won't be able to see that until the car is completely stopped. A wise limitation. While the car is stationary, you can also view any photos stored in Google, or search for service offers nearby.
One can ask whether Google Maps offers any significant advantages compared to the car's original road map, seen in relation to the fact that costs are incurred by downloading mobile data. One can also ask whether there are any advantages to using Google functions via the car's infotainment system instead of using the mobile phone, when the car is stationary anyway.
Google wants to be a player in the automotive industry – an industry that is becoming more and more IT-oriented. Google Maps through the car's infotainment system will probably become more common when 5G is introduced. Then we might also be able to stream the music from Spotify.
I conclude that Google Maps is not necessary in cars with usable navigation systems. In no way. But it is very cool to see well-known Google Maps in the car. About as cool as it was ten years ago to be able to operate the radio from the steering wheel.
I have no doubt that we will see the Google logo in the dashboard of the future.
Update as of 16.02.2019/XNUMX/XNUMX
Audi Connect Trafikkflyt is a useful aid that you can access with a SIM card. Works great! Directs traffic where there is least congestion. Then you drive together with all other expensive German brands and Teslas 🙂 MVH/Terje
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