Audi has teamed up with Google to integrate the world’s most used search engine into its navigation system, resulting in the first production vehicle to have Google Earth available and the ability to search for online content.

While not the only new piece of boundary-pushing technology making its debut in the flagship model, we must say the prospect of being able to utilise Google’s information services via a GPRS/EDGE modem that’s integrated in the latest MMI navigation, is very exciting indeed.

Especially considering that the proposed online service will allow users – or should I say, passengers – to instantly use the Google interface to search for points of interest which results in Googlemap visualising, for instance, where all the nearest pubs are located – which is obviously extremely useful.

By the same token, Audi A8 drivers will also be able to sync Googlemap with their personal or work computer, meaning it will be possible to plan a journey on Googlemap (or Audi’s web portal) and seamlessly retrieve the navigational route for use in the car.

Sounds technical, ey? Well actually, to use this service will be astoundingly easy. Because the service is automatically channelled via mobile, all that’s required is pairing one’s mobile phone with the new Audi A8 MMI system (using bluetooth connection). Alternatively, they can be paired by inserting the owners SIM card in the MMI Navigation port.

In recent years Audi MMI interface system has gone from strength to strength and this collaboration of heavyweights is set to continue that run of form. And so it should, they’ve been working on this piece of kit since 2005!