As reported by CNN, Volkswagen (VW) AG, Europe’s biggest automaker, is going to offer a stereo component that lets motorists plug in all manner of portable digital players and manage their tunes and podcasts on a dashboard display. It’d use a USB connection as the bridge between the dashboard and the portable player. The option of using USB connection will be available in December for VW Golf, VW Golf Plus, and VW Touran models; while the rest will be available next year.

The built-in console is installed in the center armrest. That’s where you plug in your portable device. There’ll be two option: for the iPod and for other USB-based players. Up to six of the player’s folders will be displayed on the car stereo system, and the radio buttons can be used to scan, search or shuffle your mix.

How much will it cost? Around $240. Not too expensive I guess.

Apart from VW, Mazda Motor Corp. recently unveiled their Sassou concept car this week at the International Auto Show. The car will not use a key, but instead a special USB drive to lock, unlock, or start the car. The USB drive would also carry your favorite tunes.