Toyota uses Nintendo DS as an in-car GPS system controller
updated 10:51 am EDT, Thu May 17, 2012
Nintendo DS works with Toyota in-car navigation for control, more
At a press conference in Tokyo on Wednesday, Toyota showed off its upcoming Estima Hybrid minivan. At the same time, equipping the van with an aftermarket Smart Navi NSZT-W62G GPS head unit will let a Nintendo DS control the GPS system of the car, 4gamer reported. The DS needs to have a Kuruma de DS (meaning Use DS in the car) cartridge inserted, which allows the portable games console to communicate with the head unit over Bluetooth.
The hardware will allow passengers to control the navigation system even when the vehicle is in motion. Keeping said passengers occupied are trivia questions and hand-drawn map notes, along with tourist information. Mii characters will read out text information. Users can save trip information to the DS as well.
The navigation system is priced at the equivalent of $2,586, while the cartridge is priced at $92, and the DS needs to be purchased separately. All launch on June 1.
