In 2006, there are at least 16 automakers who have integrated iPod into their stereo system. "Almost every car company in the world is working to integrate iPod into their cars in 2005.

iPod customers want to take their entire music collection with them everywhere they go, including their car, so we’re excited to be able to work with so many leading automotive companies to provide customers with integrated solutions" said Phillip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide product marketing.

Manufactures such as Mercedes. Volvo, Chrysler, Dodge, and Honda are just a few car companies already offering this feature a full list can be found at: http://www.apple.com/ipod/ipodyourcar/

Mercedes Benz was the first car maker to offer full iPod music navigation for passengers to listen to their entire iPod music collection through the Mercedes Benz audio system, as well a choose their music by playlist, album, or musician with the multifunction controls on the steering wheel and the display on their instrument display.

 

Mitsubishi Motors is has gotten into the market with a car called the "i"--that completely removes the need for a separate, add-on mount for the Apple Computer music player.

Instead, it offers a built-in dashboard slot for the iPod Nano.

If you already own a car and don’t see yourself buying one soon, do not be dismayed as there are a variety of conversion kits available that can connect your iPod to your current stereo. Individual car companies offer factory connectors as well as being to buy ones for a more "generic" stereo system.

You will just have to wait until your new car to have the complete integration offered on the new car models.