Google’s philanthropic arm today announced the RechargeIT initiative. Google.org awarded $1 million in grants and announced plans for a $10 million request for proposals (RFP) to fund development, adoption and commercialization of plug-ins, fully electric cars and related vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. Google aims to speed up the adoption of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Join discussion...

Apple is developing a navigation system for Mercedes-Benz, according to German magazine Focus. The technology will debut for the 2009 model year, exclusive to Mercedes automobiles. Six months later, other automakers will be allowed to license the technology, the report claims. The first 2009 models are likely to show up in mid to late 2008 — roughly 12 to 16 months from now. With 2008 models already finalized and either at dealers or arriving this fall, Mercedes is likely already testing the Join discussion...