Introduces "Search & Send" Feature for Navigat

MONTVALE, N.J.

Mercedes-Benz USA has rolled out a new Search & Send feature that allows consumers to send directions directly from their computers to their vehicles. The company will gradually phase in the feature on much of its lineup starting September 5, including the C-Class, CL-Class and S-Class, it said.

Simply put, the feature allows the driver to skip inputting addresses into the vehicle's GPS system. Instead, customers use a home computer, PDA or cell phone to pick out where they want to go, use Google or Yahoo! Maps to get directions, and then send the information to their vehicle. In addition, Mercedes-Benz said, "They can also have friends or family pull down a destination and send the information to them in the car." The driver pushes the i-button on the car's Tele Aid system to upload the directions to the navigation system.

The feature was developed in partnership with Google, Yahoo! and DaimlerChrysler Research, Engineering and Design North America.