Don't Laugh...Apple in Talks with Volkswagen over iCar...

At least not until you read this:

From AppleInsider:

Report claims Apple talking with Volkswagen over 'iCar'

By Slash Lane

Published: 02:00 PM EST

Readers may want to take this one with a bag of rock salt, but German magazine Capital is reporting that Apple and automaker Volkswagen have engaged in early discussions over a concept car dubbed "iCar."

The report -- available via Google translation -- claims that Volkswagen chief executive Martin Winterkorn recently flew to California where he sat down for a brainstorming session with Apple's Steve Jobs.

Though still in the early planning stages, the two firms reportedly plan to cooperate on the development of a new generation of Volkswagen compact cars that would include several Apple tie-ins.

Experts cited in the report say compact cars that come loaded with several pieces of Apple gear could serve as a particular draw amongst younger-generation customers.

Apple presently works with several automakers, including BMW, for iPod and iPhone integration. There have also been rumors that the company has teamed up with another German automaker, Mercedes-Benz, to develop a radically new dashboard navigation system due out next year.

Grrr. Could somebody move this to General Discussion? I really didn't me to put this here. Sorry!

#470198

i doubt this is true, it's probably  helping vw integrate ipod/iphone w/ their cars

#470212

It's just going to look like the Mac mouse. With an antenna or fin.

#470214

whoa, ellada, how'd you type the apple logo?

#470215

Breaking news, the iCar will have no Windows!

#470217

i doubt this is true, it's probably  helping vw integrate ipod/iphone w/ their cars

They already do, and if I'm not mistaken, VW was the first to have  integration.

( = ALT + SHIFT+ K)

#470218

VW was going to partner up with windows, but too many test drivers died on account of the BSOD popping up on the windshield.

#470221

lol at the corny window jokes.

it might be for a built in itunes program and sat nav and such with an  'twist' who knows

#470233

hahahaa next thing you know they'll create "iFruit". the joke's pretty self explanatory.

LOL @ The BSOD popping up in the windshield lmfao that would be SO funny until the person crashed and the car flipped over and caught on fire

#470236

lol at the corny window jokes.

ditto.

I was thinking more on the lines of having a navigation/computer system running OS X within the car.

#470241

Well... Toyota turned to Sony, for robotic and technological help in manufacturing car as well as Car navigation/control box system (something like OS for car).

Is it really a wonder that Europian car makers would not think of this? VW had worked previously with apple for iPod integration and stuff. Apple is known for building interfaces that are simple and fun to use. I would say, it's about the same thing.

#470243

^ wtf..?

i don't like the name "iCar" , but i wouldn't mind seeing os x installed in the car, as long as it isn't missing features like the iPhone does..

#470247

Unfortunately, starting the iCar will ultimately lead to the spinning circle of futility.

#470250

nahh i dont think the icar is gonna really exist....

its probably just better ipod/iphone integration and dash controls for these media devices... and maybe just maybe, volkswagon will co-develop a gps system that integrates with the iphone to display maps on its screen.

#470272

You'll be able to hook up your car to a Mac or PC to sync playlists and to charge the car battery.

#470284

You'll be able to hook up your car to a Mac or PC to sync playlists and to charge the car battery.

hahahaha petrol stations will have itunes fill up bowsers, $50 to top up with your favourite songs... I can see you pulling out the retractable usb cord from the side of the car already

#470310

Maybe this would shed some light... Think of it as, VW and Apple are trying to make something more than this : http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/cupertino-cars/...face-295751.php

#470517