Ever since Google first noted in the fall of 2010 that engineers at the search giant were trying to create an autonomous vehicle that could be widely sold, industry analysts have wondered how a self-driving car would fit into the Internet company's business strategy.

It could be technology for technology's sake, noted Ezra Gottheil, an analyst with Technology Business Research. "It's a very long shot for ultimate business relevance," he said. "But there's no reason an investor with lots of cash, which is what Google is, shouldn't have some long shots in its portfolio."

A visionary might look ahead 10 years and imagine people driven around by their cars, while they spend their time searching Google for nearby Thai restaurants or gas stations, instead of driving on busy highways, he said.

Sharon Gaudin covers the Internet and Web 2.0, emerging technologies, and desktop and laptop chips for Computerworld. Follow Sharon on Twitter at , on or subscribe to . Her email address is .

See .