The device connects to the Web via cellular or wi-fi networks, and will be available in consumer electronics outlets. Dash plans to launch the product in California this spring before rolling it out to the rest of the country in the fall. No pricing has been announced yet.

Entering a search term on the Dash Express returns a list of local businesses, from which a user can then obtain directions. Search terms can range from business names to broader categories like "dim sum" or "plumbing supplies." Search results are ranked according to relevance as on the online version of Yahoo Local, but do not include contextual paid listings.

Last year, Google entered into a deal with Volkswagen to jointly develop a prototype automotive navigation system. The prototype would integrate the search giant's satellite mapping product, Google Earth, into the dashboards of VW cars. A Google spokesperson said Wednesday that there was nothing further to announced on the project at this time.

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