Yahoo! Inc. and Dash Navigation Inc. have announced a partnership that will combine Yahoo's local search technology with Dash's internet-connected automotive navigation system.

"Drivers will have ability to do local search on the device and then immediately navigate to the results of that local search," says Paul Lego, chief executive of Dash.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Dash plans to launch Dash Express in California this spring and then nationally in the fall. Dash's global-positioning-system technology will provide location data that Yahoo may use to narrow search results to nearby businesses.

"It really is a new implementation of mobile search. People need to find information about local businesses and what's around them not just when they're at their PC," Peter MacDonald, senior director of business development for Yahoo Local, told the Journal.

Last week, Ford Motor Co. and Microsoft Corp. announced plans to deliver more wireless connectivity into a car's cockpit. The system, which is dubbed Sync, will allow hands-free cell phone communication and other options like receiving email and downloading music.

"What we are seeing here is a trend toward delivering technology that will not only enhance the driving experience but the overall quality of life, as well, for those who rely on their cars to enable on-the-go lifestyles. Marketers who embrace the opportunities this level of connectivity presents will certainly have an advantage with these consumers," says Jodi Harris, editor, Driving Interactive, iMedia's automotive newsletter.

"Yahoo is committed to providing innovative ways to help consumers find relevant information when, where and how they want it," says Paul Levine, general manager of Yahoo Local. "Working with Dash takes us one step closer to that goal and provides consumers with another meaningful and relevant way to interact with our products."