Apple And Volkswagen Unveil iBeetle

Steve Jobs famously wanted Apple to build an iCar, but he died before he was able to oversee that dream. Volkswagen collaborated with Apple on the most thought out iPhone integration in a car so far. They’re calling it iBeetle and it was just announced at the Shanghai Auto Show.

iBeetle will be available as either a hard top coupe or as a convertible starting in 2014.

iPhone takes over the Volkswagon’s center console with a new docking station. Once connected, iPhone becomes a part of the car’s electronic system. It can be used to navigate, make calls hands-free, listen to music, and even more with a new Beetle app.

The Beetle app connects to iBeetle both when docked in the station or wirelessly. Built in to the Beetle App are several other apps. According to the VW press release, here’s what you’ll get:

• Spotify: lets users stream media such as new songs, customized playlists or online radio stations into the Beetle. Those who wish can post their favorite music directly to friends. In addition, users in the Beetle can switch between “Spotify” and “iTunes” at any time.
• Expert: offers five functions which make the iPhone an extended on-board instrument of the Beetle, such as a G-Meter (for measuring lateral acceleration), oil and coolant temperature gauges for the engine, a chronometer, and a compass.
• Trainer: can be used to compare driving times, distances, and fuel economy values for different routes between any two destinations. Here, too, tips can be posted via social networks like Twitter and Facebook—such as which route is faster to the office.
• Reader: lists the latest messages from social networks like Facebook, and reads iPhone messages aloud.
• Postcard: Sends the current location of the Beetle to friends as a digital postcard with a map motif.
• Photo: Sends photos taken inside the car to numerous social networks. Simply activate it, and the app does the rest.
• Milestones: Available when the smartphone is undocked. Rewards its users with virtual “milestone stickers” for the Beetle when certain tasks have been completed.

Volkswagon says iBeetle will come with Apple inspired design options and colors. They don’t say, but based on descriptions, it seems like colors are inspired by the colors of an iMac:

The wheels are 8-inch Disc alloy painted in “Galvano Grey” with chrome wheel covers. The door mirror housings and side trim panels (above the sill) are also “Galvano Grey.” Black door sill plates have an iBeetle signature, and that iBeetle signature is also featured as chrome badges on the front fender.

iBeetle’s interior is inspired by iPhone’s color scheme. You can one in “Candy White”, “Oryx White Mother of Pearl Effect”, “Black Monochrome”, “Deep Black Pearl Effect”, “Platinum Grey”, or “Reflex Silver”.

Inside, steering wheel accents and the dash pad are “Galvano Grey”.

I’m not a car person, and certainly not a new car person, but this is one I want!