Volkswagen Aims to Improve Infotainment System to Compete with Google Maps

Introduction

Volkswagen is determined to make its new infotainment system more appealing and user-friendly than popular third-party apps like Google Maps and Waze. The integration of maps with the battery management system could give Volkswagen an edge over its competitors.

Improving Performance and Navigation

Axel Heinrich, Volkswagen’s head of innovation and systems architecture, acknowledges that the performance and navigation of their maps are not as good as Google’s. He believes that the popularity of smartphone-mirroring functions indicates a need for improvement in Volkswagen’s system.

The Trade-Off

While drivers can choose to use non-VW navigation interfaces, they will miss out on Volkswagen’s integrated battery management system. This system provides recommendations for charging times and locations. Heinrich explains that it becomes a trade-off when multi-stop routing.

Encouraging the Use of VW’s App

Volkswagen is pushing to encourage drivers to use its own app, but Heinrich clarifies that they are realistic about their goals. One potential strategy to increase usership is by exchanging data with third parties like Google. This collaboration could enhance VW’s mapping platform while allowing Google to monitor in-car metrics.

European Data Act and Customer Choice

With the new European data act, customers may have the choice to share data about their vehicle with third-party apps. Volkswagen is exploring the opportunities this presents and discussing it with relevant parties.

Renewed Focus on Software and Interior Usability

Volkswagen’s renewed focus on software and interior usability is a response to criticism of the Mk8 Golf and the Volkswagen ID 3. The company aims to address the unconventional interiors and regain the trust of loyal customers. Changes include the reintroduction of physical buttons on steering wheels and reorganizing the infotainment software to prioritize critical functions.