HIGH HOPES
‘We’re not dreaming’, Volkswagen vows as it launches app to rival popular Google Maps & Waze
New changes include the return of a useful button feature
VOLKSWAGEN has launched an app to rival the popular Google Maps and Waze.
The German car maker has unveiled a new set of changes to upcoming models - including a new navigating system.
2
Manufacturers are planning to introduce new features to their new infotainment systems to attract more users.
VW vehicles boast augmented reality with a 5.3in display and navigation system projected onto the windscreen.
But bosses admitted there is “a little bit lacking in our performance and navigation” when compared to smartphone mirroring.
Volkswagen’s head of innovation and systems architecture Axel Heinrich told : "We are not dreaming.
READ MORE MOTORS
“Our maps and traffic are not the best, like Google.”
For this, the brand is giving a new glow up to its systems to rival top competitors.
Bosses warned drivers who choose to use navigation from other brands can miss out on exclusive features.
Models will come with integrated battery management systems - which recommend charging times and locations.
Most read in Motors
Heinrich added: “It’s a trade-off you have to make when multi-stop routing."
To encourage loyal drivers, VW is will start sharing data with Google to improve its functionality.
Cars will boast in-house mapping platform featuring Google's in-car metrics.
Heinrich said customers could choose to share data about their vehicle with third-party apps.
Among the new wave of changes being made across the firm's cars, manufacturers are returning physical buttons to its steering wheels.
They are also including a reorganisation of the infotainment software to prioritise critical functions.
Volkswagen's bid to renew its interior comes after drivers slammed the Mk8 Golf and the Volkswagen ID 3.
A cars enthusiast previously criticised the new vehicle by saying its performance fell short.
What should have been a smooth driving test became an EV nightmare - and things started to go wrong before he could even get into the vehicle.
He claimed the high-tech screen display has too many touch buttons and they don't even light up at night.
The steering wheel also features touch controls - which are supposed to make the driving experience more convenient.
VW brand boss Thomas Schäfer admitted the cars' unconventional interiors "definitely did a lot of damage" among loyal customers.
It comes as sat navs will now automatically update short-term traffic measures - and stop sending drivers down closed roads.
The Government is set to launch new measures to ensure sat navs are up to date and drivers get the most accurate real-time data.
As part of its new Plan For Drivers, all Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) such as temporary speed limits or sudden road closures will be made digital.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
Meanwhile, Volkswagen's upcoming EV boasts an array of smart features - including two secret storage compartments and a hidden towbar.
VW's electric ID.2 has been reviewed by in a recent TikTok video, with the German social media team able to get their hands on a concept of the motor years before it hits showrooms.
2
Topics