Google reveals its first self-driving car prototype (video)

Google’s first self-driving car prototype (pictured) Google might not be the first company that springs to mind as a car maker, but Tesla has already proved that Silicon Valley can produce a car that buyers want and Google are intent on following a similar route. But where Tesla’s USP is its long-range electric capabilities – and a desire to build cars for the market – Google’s goal is more technology orientated and is all about developing self-driving car technology that works in the real world. For the last few years, Google has been experimenting with existing cars kitted out with self-driving gubbins, but now they’ve taken the next step and built their own self-driving prototype.

Charles Morgan to build rival cars

Sacked Morgan boss Charles Morgan is to set up new sports car company that he says will rival the 104-year-old British car manufacturer that bears his family name and recently dismissed him. In a report in the Telegraph, Charles is quoted as saying his new company will “build on the innovation and heritage of my grandfather”. On Bing: see pictures of Morgan cars Find out how much a used Morgan costs on Auto Trader The news comes less than a month after Morgan lost his appeal against his dismissal from the Malvern carmaker his family set up in 1909.

Volkswagen creates driving style-linked music app

VOLKSWAGEN has created a new smartphone that improvises its own music based on how the car is being driven. Working with British electronic musicians Underworld, Volkswagen has built the experimental ‘Play the Road’ app to help celebrate the launch of the seventh generation Golf GTI. It works by connecting to the car and using its own in-built accelerometer to analyse speed, engine revs, steering, throttle and braking inputs and the urgency of each to create a unique, ever-changing music that ranges from serene background chillout vibes to fast-paced electronica.