Google may be giving navi makers a slight jolt as the Internet search giant moves to integrate its panoramic Street View application with the Google Maps platform.

Last year Google's fleet of Chevy Cobalts, equipped with 360-degree cameras and GPS transmitters, hit the road to create its image-based virtual topography tool that will, starting today, give travelers visual context for Google Maps' routs, pikes, intersections and action points.

Called Google Maps Street View, the program will feature camera icons marking each step of the journey. Clicking the icon opens a Street View image of the location, along with a directional arrow. From there users can track their route in Street View all the way to the arrival point.

The new Street View-Google Maps fusion will not replace navigation systems. However, it offers a no-cost way to preview the route, tolls, speed limits, size of the road, and the availability of parking from any web-enabled PC or handset.