Mercedes-Benz said on Wednesday that it has partnered with Google to develop branded navigation for its new MB.OS operating system, as carmakers seek more control over technology in their vehicles.
The system will equip Mercedes-Benz cars with Google traffic information and automatic rerouting, and enable drivers to watch YouTube on the cars’ entertainment system when the car is parked, or in Level 3 autonomous driving mode.
Level 3 driving, for which Mercedes-Benz has received certification in Germany and Nevada, allows a driver to take their eyes off the wheel on certain roads as long as they can resume control if needed.
Google and Mercedes-Benz also agreed to explore further collaboration with Google Cloud data and artificial intelligence capabilities.
Mercedes-Benz is moving from a patchwork approach of integrating software from a range of suppliers to controlling the core of its software, Chief Executive Ola Kaellenius said on a media call on Wednesday, “That’s where the paradigm shift is going on in the auto industry.”
Mercedes will control the hardware and software “base layer” but work with partners for various services and content, the luxury carmaker said at a software-oriented capital markets day held in California.
Technology companies are racing to control carmakers’ dashboards and automated driving features as software becomes an integral part of car design, but some carmakers are wary of allowing tech giants unfettered access to their cars’ valuable data.
The MB.OS operating system is due to launch in the middle of the decade in vehicles on the modular architecture — or MMA — platform, which will underpin its future compact cars, and be rolled out across the product line from then on.
A precursor to the system will be available in the new E-Class from 2023.
Self-driving sensor maker Luminar Technologies, in which Mercedes owns a small stake, said in a separate statement it had struck a multi-billion dollar deal with the carmaker to integrate its sensors across a broad range of its vehicles by mid-decade.
Google, Mercedes-Benz Partner to Develop Branded Navigation for Carmaker
Meta Description: Google and Mercedes-Benz have partnered to develop a new branded navigation system that integrates Google’s geospatial data and AI capabilities into Mercedes vehicles. Learn about the collaboration, key features, and what it means for the automotive industry.
Introduction
In an exciting new development for the automotive industry, Google and Mercedes-Benz have partnered to create a revolutionary branded navigation system for the iconic German carmaker. This partnership will integrate Google Maps and Google Cloud’s AI-powered solutions into Mercedes vehicles, enhancing the driving experience for millions of users globally.
This collaboration marks a significant step in how digital services and connected cars are shaping the future of mobility. By integrating Google’s cutting-edge technology into Mercedes-Benz vehicles, drivers will have access to seamless navigation, enhanced voice control, and AI-powered search capabilities, all designed to make driving more intuitive and enjoyable.
Let’s dive deeper into what this partnership entails and how it will affect the driving experience for Mercedes-Benz users.
What’s New with Google and Mercedes-Benz’s Partnership?
The new branded navigation system will be a part of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), which is the heart of the vehicle’s infotainment and AI systems. Google’s geospatial data, including Google Maps Platform, will provide users with real-time traffic information, automatic rerouting, and detailed location data for millions of places worldwide.
Here are some key features that the partnership will bring to Mercedes-Benz cars:
1. Google Maps Integration
-
Google Maps will power the navigation system, offering accurate and up-to-date routes with real-time traffic updates, location information, and points of interest (POIs).
-
The integration will enable smoother drives with automatic rerouting during traffic jams, road closures, or accidents, making every trip more efficient.
2. AI-Powered Voice Control
-
The new system will also feature Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent, powered by Google’s Gemini models.
-
MBUX Voice Assistant will allow drivers to interact with the car using natural language, such as asking the system to find a specific location or recommend nearby restaurants or gas stations.
-
Drivers can now ask more complex questions like, “Could you guide me to a fine-dining restaurant with outdoor seating nearby?” and receive answers in a more human-like conversation.
3. Google Assistant Integration
-
The system will include Google Assistant in vehicles, enabling voice-based controls for music, weather, phone calls, and navigation without taking your hands off the wheel.
-
The integration will be fully embedded into the MBUX system, creating a more seamless user experience.
4. In-Car Entertainment Integration
-
Google’s YouTube will be available for passengers (while parked or during Level 3 autonomous driving), giving them entertainment options during their journeys. This is a major move toward transforming the car into a mobile entertainment hub.
5. Enhanced Charging Station Mapping
-
Google Maps will provide up-to-date information on charging stations for electric vehicles, which will be particularly helpful as more EVs take to the roads. Drivers will be able to find charging stations along their route and check availability in real-time.
What Does This Mean for Mercedes-Benz and Google?
This partnership strengthens both companies’ positions in the evolving connected car market. For Mercedes-Benz, it enhances their MBUX system with Google’s world-class geospatial and AI capabilities, providing a cutting-edge digital experience to their users. For Google, it marks a significant move to increase its presence in the automotive industry, integrating its services directly into the driving experience.
The collaboration is also a strategic move as both companies focus on delivering a connected ecosystem of services that extend beyond traditional car functions. As autonomous vehicles and electric mobility become more mainstream, this partnership is shaping up to be a game-changer for the future of driving.
The Future of Mobility and Digital Integration
Mercedes-Benz and Google’s branded navigation system reflects the growing trend of digital transformation in the automotive industry. With the increased adoption of autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs), carmakers are leveraging the power of connected technology to improve safety, driving convenience, and overall vehicle performance.
For consumers, the collaboration promises an improved experience with smarter navigation and AI-based driving support features. As both companies continue to innovate and expand their automotive technology offerings, this partnership will likely pave the way for further advancements in vehicle connectivity and autonomous driving systems.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Google and Mercedes-Benz to develop a branded navigation system is a significant milestone in the world of automotive technology. With the integration of Google Maps, AI-powered voice assistants, and Google Cloud services, drivers of Mercedes-Benz vehicles can expect a highly connected, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience.
As Mercedes-Benz continues to lead the charge in luxury cars with high-tech features and Google strengthens its role in mobility, this partnership will surely set the standard for future innovations in the automotive industry. The new system will be rolled out in upcoming Mercedes-Benz models, beginning with the CLA, and it will redefine what drivers can expect from their in-car experience.
