Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Equus - Click above for high-res image gallery

As part of its product and marketing development process, Hyundai has reached out to owners and enthusiasts to create a network of consumers with which to discuss everything from future models and technologies to advertising tactics, polls, and so on.

Autoblog has learned of a communiqué issued to members late last week where Dean Macko, Hyundai's Manager of Brand Strategy, appealed to focus group members to help come up with a name for a new "Advanced Technological System" - a telematics package likened repeatedly to General Motors' OnStar and Ford's Microsoft Sync.

According to Macko, the system Hyundai is pursuing focuses on "four buckets of service": Safety and Security (including theft immobilization and automatic emergency service notification in the event of a crash), Infotainment (wireless connectivity features for telephone, music, etc.), Navigation (like OnStar's turn-by-turn direction service), and Vehicle Diagnostics, a tool for both owners and dealers that could help track the need for maintenance and potentially even notify one's dealer to order parts for a forthcoming repair.

Macko admits Hyundai has come up with a number of possible names on its own, including In Touch, Ring, Fuse and Emerge, but the company is reaching out to its network for suggestions. Calling them "naming experts," Macko indicates that this focus group has already helped come up with titles for future paint colors.

To be clear, in Macko's video message, he only says that Hyundai is "thinking about" introducing such a system - he does not commit to a product, timetable, or price. However, given the tone of his message and the nature of the group that Macko is appealing to, we have to believe that this new technology is just around the corner... perhaps tied to the launch of the Equus luxury sedan?

Hyundai apparently needs these naming suggestions by this Wednesday, November 4, and while most of you probably aren't part of Hyundai's focus group, we know that top company officials trawl these hallowed precincts on a daily basis. Thus, if you have a suggestion of your own, why not drop it in 'Comments' - who knows, they just might pick yours. Thanks for the tip, Mike!


Gallery: Quick Spin: Hyundai Equus

equus_ride---01equus_ride---02equus_ride---03equus_ride---04equus_ride---05

BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothbreakingbreakingnewsconnectivityDean MackoDeanMackoFord SyncFordSyncGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGPShaptichyundaiimmobilizerinfotainmentinfotainment systemInfotainmentSystemMicrosoftMicrosoft SyncMicrosoftSyncOn StarOnstarSat-navtelematictelematicstheft recoveryTheftRecoveryvehicle diagnosticsvehicle immobilizationVehicleDiagnosticsVehicleImmobilizationwireless connectivityWirelessConnectivityMon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Google bringing free turn-by-turn navigation to mobile Maps [w/ VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/google-bringing-free-turn-by-turn-navigation-to-mobile-maps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/google-bringing-free-turn-by-turn-navigation-to-mobile-maps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/google-bringing-free-turn-by-turn-navigation-to-mobile-maps/#commentsFiled under:

Click above to view the video after the jump

If you've been following today's news in the mobile gadget world, you've already heard about the Motorola Droid smartphone powered by the latest version of Google's open-source Android operating system. It's a pretty slick setup, particularly with the new 2.0 OS, but the bigger news (to us) is Google's announcement that it's offering a free, turn-by-turn navigation system built around its popular mobile Maps program.

Available on the Droid (and future Android 2.0 devices), the system features all the functionality of Google Maps -- integrated search by location or business, traffic data, etc. -- but now includes voice-guided directions, satellite and street views (yay!), layers and the ability to search for points-of-interest along the chose route. A dock will be available to mount the device on your windshield and in addition to typing your destination, it also accepts voice searches. Yes, Garmin and TomTom have something to worry about.

Make the jump for a video covering all the features of the new system, and be prepared to pony up $199 for the Motorola Droid (on contract) when it goes on sale November 6th through Verizon. If you're looking for all the latest news on the device and Android 2.0, there's a site for that.

UPDATE: Hands-on video of the system in action added.

[Source: Google]

Continue reading Google bringing free turn-by-turn navigation to mobile Maps [w/ VIDEO]

Google bringing free turn-by-turn navigation to mobile Maps [w/ VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>droidgoogle android 2.0google android 2.0 donutgoogle mapsGoogleAndroid2.0GoogleAndroid2.0DonutGoogleMapsgpsmotorola droidMotorolaDroidnavinavigationturn by turnTurnByTurnWed, 28 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Like a Rolling Stone: Bob Dylan to voice sat-nav systems?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/like-a-rolling-stone-bob-dylan-to-voice-sat-nav-systems/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/like-a-rolling-stone-bob-dylan-to-voice-sat-nav-systems/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/like-a-rolling-stone-bob-dylan-to-voice-sat-nav-systems/#commentsFiled under: ,



Want an interesting voice on your satellite navigation system but tired of the Yoda, Stewie, Arnold and Homer themes you've already downloaded? Good news, then. Bob Dylan has just announced on his "Theme Time Radio Hour" show in the U.K. that he may be providing his distinctive vocals to a GPS unit near you soon. Says Dylan:
I am talking to a couple of car companies about being the voice of their GPS system. I think it would be good if you are looking for directions and hear my voice saying something like: left at the next street, no a right - you know what? Just go straight... I probably shouldn't do it because which ever way I go I always end up at one place: Lonely Avenue.
We can picture it now... the first time you're lost, Bob Dylan's elastic voice comes on loud through the speakers, "How does it feel? To be on your own... with no direction home. Like a complete unknown." Comforting, no?

[Source: Telegraph]

Like a Rolling Stone: Bob Dylan to voice sat-nav systems? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob dylanbob dylan gpsbob dylan sat navbob dylan satellite navigationBobDylanBobDylanGpsBobDylanSatelliteNavigationBobDylanSatNavdylangpssat navsatellite navigationSatelliteNavigationSatNavTue, 25 Aug 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: D.C. police chief says drivers who use iPhone to find speed traps are "cowardly"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/18/report-d-c-police-chief-says-drivers-who-use-iphone-to-find-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/18/report-d-c-police-chief-says-drivers-who-use-iphone-to-find-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/18/report-d-c-police-chief-says-drivers-who-use-iphone-to-find-sp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

D.C. police chief Cathy Lanier, frustrated that iPhone technology is one step ahead of the red-light and speed cameras in her jurisdiction, has announced that those who use their hand-held electronic devices are "cowardly" and "...are going to get caught" in one way or another.

The subscription-based software that has Lanier shaking her fists and blurting out names is called PhantomAlert. In a nutshell, its GPS-enhanced database of law enforcement "points of interest" mimics alarms similar to those common to radar detectors (remember, radar detectors are already illegal in Virginia and D.C.). Drivers are alerted to approaching speed traps and photo enforcing locations on in their iPhone, or portable GPS units, enabling them time to slow down.

Not surprising when you consider that the greater D.C. area is home to nearly 10 percent of all traffic cameras in the U.S., according to experts. Chief Lanier is frustrated that the innovative technology is "designed to circumvent law enforcement -- law enforcement that is designed specifically to save lives." What Lanier seems to be forgetting is that attentive drivers using PhantomAlert will be slowing down at all 290 enforcement zones... saving countless lives in the process.

[Source: Washington Examiner, Photo by Michael Harley]

REPORT: D.C. police chief says drivers who use iPhone to find speed traps are "cowardly" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Jul 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beat the photo radarBeatThePhotoRadarCathy LanierCathyLanierGPSiPhoneLaw EnforcementLawEnforcementPhantomAlertphoto radarPhotoRadarRadar DetectorsRadarDetectorsspeed cameraSpeedCameraWashington D.C.WashingtonD.c.Sat, 18 Jul 2009 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[In-car navigation systems set to go 3D?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/in-car-navigation-systems-set-to-go-3d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/in-car-navigation-systems-set-to-go-3d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/in-car-navigation-systems-set-to-go-3d/#commentsFiled under: ,



Navigation systems have quickly gone from being an interactive way to direct one from Point A to Point B to massive infotainment centerpieces capable of MP3 player integration, web browsing and wifi. Auto Express is reporting that GPS units could go 3D as soon as next year, because advancements in hardware could make the technology feasible with already available dual image LCD screens (like the one in the 2010 Jaguar XJ).

If you're thinking that you're going to have to wear those goofy paper 3D glasses to find the nearest McDonalds, that's not the case. Faster processors and increased memory will enable the LCD to oscillate between two images fast enough to give the illusion of depth. The incorporation of important landmarks embedded within the 3D image ought to go leaps and bounds towards finding your destination easier.

In the near term, it's likely that the functionality will first be available in aftermarket systems, with OEM models becoming available after the tech becomes a bit more mainstream. Actually, Clarion has been selling a 3D nav system in the UK for over a year and Sony and Panasonic have had the tech available in Japan, so it's more a matter of when, not if, the tech will be available in North America.

[Source: Auto Express]

In-car navigation systems set to go 3D? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D3D navigation3dNavigationclariongarminGPSlcd screensLcdScreensnav systemnaviNavSystemtomtomThu, 09 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jersey bill aims to ban driver's use of GPS while driving]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/21/new-jersey-bill-aims-to-ban-drivers-use-of-gps-while-driving/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/21/new-jersey-bill-aims-to-ban-drivers-use-of-gps-while-driving/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/21/new-jersey-bill-aims-to-ban-drivers-use-of-gps-while-driving/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Satellite navigation systems - click above for high-res image gallery

It is already illegal to manually use a cell phone for texting or calling while driving in New Jersey. A state legislator has aimed at the next in-car distraction: GPS devices. Democratic Assemblyman Harvey Smith wants a ban on manually programming GPS devices while driving. You would need to pull over to input your destination, or have a voice-operated unit. Punishment otherwise would be a $100 fine.

Probably every single one of us has had to drive defensively around someone who was obviously not paying attention to their driving. At this point, the question in New Jersey is how many activities are they going to ban? And what makes a GPS unit worse than an MP3 player or those folks who drive with their knees while they eat?

Another Assemblyman, John Wisniewski, had proposed a blanket ban on distracted driving in 2006 but that was passed over in favor of the cell phone-specific ban. New Jersey also already has a law against careless driving, which carries a $100 fine and two points on your license. Smith's proposed law would give New Jersey officers -- Smith is an undersheriff -- a specific behavior to target, but it all seems a bit scattershot in light of the copious distracting activities drivers engage in. Hat tip to Rich!


Gallery: Satellite navigation systems


[Source: Daily Record | Gallery Images: Getty]

New Jersey bill aims to ban driver's use of GPS while driving originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>distractionetcgovernmentgpslawlegalnew jerseyNewJerseySun, 21 Jun 2009 12:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Gov't warns GPS system could begin to fail in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/govt-warns-gps-system-could-begin-to-fail-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/govt-warns-gps-system-could-begin-to-fail-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/govt-warns-gps-system-could-begin-to-fail-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: ,



Big government's inefficiency comes in a variety of flavors, and this one could hit your dashboards as early as next year. According to a report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the U.S.' Global Positioning System (GPS) could begin to experience black-outs and general failures next year due to the delays, mismanagement and underinvestment by the U.S. Air force.

The report states, ""In recent years, the Air Force has struggled to successfully build GPS satellites within cost and schedule goals" and "If the Air Force does not meet its schedule goals for development of GPS IIIA satellites, there will be an increased likelihood that in 2010, as old satellites begin to fail, the overall GPS constellation will fall below the number of satellites required to provide the level of GPS service that the U.S. government commits to."

Not only are we all dependent on a variety of GPS devices - from standard-issue dash-mounted and in-car systems to smartphones - in our daily lives, there's the national security issue. China, India and Russia are working in earnest to get their own systems in place, and considering that the first replacement satellite is expected to be launched in November - three years after its initial deployment date - speeding up future launches is going to come at a significantly higher cost, adding additional complications and red-tape into the mix.

[Source: GAO via Engadget]

Gov't warns GPS system could begin to fail in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 May 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010black outsBlackOutsfailuresgpsgps satellitesGpsSatellitesWed, 20 May 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Can GPS units makes you more fuel efficient? Navteq seems to think so...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/can-gps-units-makes-you-more-fuel-efficient-navteq-seems-to-thi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/can-gps-units-makes-you-more-fuel-efficient-navteq-seems-to-thi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/can-gps-units-makes-you-more-fuel-efficient-navteq-seems-to-thi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A recent survey conducted by research firm NuStats and funded by GPS-maker NAVTEQ found that drivers equipped with in-car navigation units use 12% less fuel than their non-guided counterparts. The study focused on three groups of drivers in Germany. The first used no GPS at all, the second had a basic GPS and the third had a GPS unit that included traffic information. None of the participants had previously owned navigation units.

Once the participating drivers that had been given GPS units got used to relying on the computer's directions, some interesting results were observed. Drivers with navigation units ended up driving shorter distances and spent less time behind the wheel. As a result, these drivers used less fuel than motorists without GPS units. Want to know more? See the full press release after the break.

[Source: NAVTEQ via Jalopnik]

Continue reading Can GPS units makes you more fuel efficient? Navteq seems to think so...

Can GPS units makes you more fuel efficient? Navteq seems to think so... originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 May 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreengpsnavigationnavigation systemnavigation systemsNavigationSystemNavigationSystemsnavteqFri, 01 May 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA["Ya'll turn left now, ya hear?" - NASCAR-branded Dale Earnhardt Jr. sat-nav hits the market [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/yall-turn-left-now-ya-here-nascar-branded-dale-earnhardt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/yall-turn-left-now-ya-here-nascar-branded-dale-earnhardt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/yall-turn-left-now-ya-here-nascar-branded-dale-earnhardt/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Follow the jump to hear Dale, Jr. giving you directions on the RightWay Spotter GPS

The Dale, Jr.-edition Spotter GPS has Junior gearing you up for the ride with "You drive, I'll ride shotgun." The portable device offers turn-by-turn directions and features Junior-isms like "Hang a right" and "Park it, we're here." The RightWay Spotter comes installed with 1.7 million points of interest, which includes a point-of-interest tour of Charlotte, North Carolina that can also lead you to some of Dale's favorite places. If that weren't enough, the GPS plays MP3s and videos, displays photos, and has an e-book reader, all for $299.

Admittedly, we were kinda hoping it would only instruct left turns, which, in the words of our tipster, might go something like this:
"Alright y'all are gonna go down here a ways, then turn left. Keep going then turn left. Merge over to the high side and and at the next corner turn left. Then make an immediate left. Continue down this stretch of road then y'all need to turn left...
Follow the jump to watch a video of the real Dale, Jr. telling you how it's done. Thanks for the tip, Derek!

[Source: Twice]

Continue reading "Ya'll turn left now, ya hear?" - NASCAR-branded Dale Earnhardt Jr. sat-nav hits the market [w/VIDEO]

"Ya'll turn left now, ya hear?" - NASCAR-branded Dale Earnhardt Jr. sat-nav hits the market [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dale earnhardtdale earnhardt jrdale earnhardt jr.DaleEarnhardtDaleEarnhardtJrDaleEarnhardtJr.gadgetgadgetsgpsjuniorlifestylemotorsportsnascarnavinavigationpndrightwayrightway spotterRightwaySpotterTue, 21 Apr 2009 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Example #4,239 why sat-nav isn't always to be trusted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/example-4-239-why-sat-nav-isnt-always-to-be-trusted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/example-4-239-why-sat-nav-isnt-always-to-be-trusted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/example-4-239-why-sat-nav-isnt-always-to-be-trusted/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Anyone who uses a satnav regularly knows the feeling of looking at the directions being given - or actually trying to follow them - and wondering "WTF?" Try an experiment and plug one of your regular destinations into your satnav and see what it spit out; seven times out of ten you'll wonder "Why would it tell me to go that way?"

A driver in England has once again followed the instructions from his car's GPS system as if he were Abraham heeding instructions from The Almighty. Headed to a friend's house, the driver was told by his GPS to go up a steep walking path, and he did so. Luckily the path was lined by a fence, because when the driver crested a hill, he slid down the path and into the fence, which stopped him from going over a 100-foot cliff.

Fortunately, he was unhurt, although charged with careless driving. Never forget: trust your good sense before you trust your satnav...

[Source: The MIrror]

Example #4,239 why sat-nav isn't always to be trusted originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drivingenglandetceuroeuropegpsnavigationsatnavukWed, 25 Mar 2009 19:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Freightliner debuts RunSmart Predictive Cruise Control]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/22/freightliner-debuts-runsmart-predictive-cruise-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/22/freightliner-debuts-runsmart-predictive-cruise-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/22/freightliner-debuts-runsmart-predictive-cruise-control/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The next step in cruise control comes courtesy of Freightliner semis and GPS data company NAVTEQ. Freightliner broadened communication between the cruise control and map data: the GPS transmits information on the road ahead up to a mile, and then the cruise control computes the best speed at which to cover the distance with the greatest fuel efficiency.

It's called RunSmart Predictive Cruise, and it employs slope data from the NAVTEQ system that has been collected on 200,000 miles of the most used truck routes. While RunSmart is looking for peak efficiency, it won't sacrifice speed; the system remains within 6% of the set speed. It's an available option on Freightliner's Detroit Diesel DD15-equipped Cascadia model with the 72-inch raised roof.

[Source: Daimler]

Freightliner debuts RunSmart Predictive Cruise Control originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercial truckCommercialTruckcruise controlCruiseControldaimlerefficiencyfreightlinerfreightliner cascadiaFreightlinerCascadiafuel economyFuelEconomygas mileageGasMileagegpsnavteqrunsmartsemitechnologytruckSun, 22 Mar 2009 13:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmann, Mercedes-Benz working on modular, built-in nav systems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/harmann-mercedes-benz-working-on-modular-built-in-nav-systems/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/harmann-mercedes-benz-working-on-modular-built-in-nav-systems/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/harmann-mercedes-benz-working-on-modular-built-in-nav-systems/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Factory navigation systems might be a popular option on high-end vehicles, but there's no denying that their astronomical price tag and lack of upgrades make them pale in comparison to aftermarket units available at a fraction of the cost. Automakers contend that the integration with the vehicle's systems and the lack of unsightly cords are worth it, but when you consider that the technology was locked in three years ago, the choice is clear. Time to go to Best Buy.

Thankfully, Mercedes-Benz and Harman International have recognized the problem and are working on a two-piece solution to solve it. The modular system consists of a screen and a separate control unit mounted in the dash, allowing the system to be upgraded quickly and, more importantly, cheaply. The hidden "processing box" will handle all the heavy lifting, including the GPS, music storage and Bluetooth integration.

If the collaboration works, expect the modular sat-nav systems to be available in the second half of 2010 on eight Mercedes-Benz models.

[Source: Twice via Gearlog via Engadget]

Harmann, Mercedes-Benz working on modular, built-in nav systems originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpsharmannmercedesmercedes-benzsat navsatellitenavigationSatNavTue, 10 Feb 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan working on wrong-way warning system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/nissan-working-on-wrong-way-warning-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/nissan-working-on-wrong-way-warning-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/nissan-working-on-wrong-way-warning-system/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Earlier this week, a 21-year-old driver got on the wrong entrance ramp to the 10 freeway in Los Angeles and ended up going westbound in the eastbound lanes. Doing up to 70 mph in the fast lane, he collided head-on with a police car and he and the officer were killed instantly. Nissan and West Nippon Expressway are working on technology that, using GPS and Telematics, will work to keep such things from happening.

The R&D is for an "IT-assisted road information system." As is becoming de rigeur these days, it uses your cell phone to detect situations in which a warning might be needed before a dangerous situation. The GPS component would come into play in a wrong-ramp situation, while telematics could be used to warn drivers of long downhill stretches. The efforts join Nissan's bumblebee-and-crash-avoidance research aimed at halving incidents in Nissan vehicles. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading Nissan working on wrong-way warning system

Nissan working on wrong-way warning system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drivinggpshighwaysjapannissansafetytechtechnologytelematicswarningsFri, 30 Jan 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2009: Navigon takes routing personal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/10/ces-2009-navigon-takes-routing-personal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/10/ces-2009-navigon-takes-routing-personal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/10/ces-2009-navigon-takes-routing-personal/#commentsFiled under: ,


Navigon and Rand McNally have teamed up to develop some interesting new GPS features that make it easier for users to personalize their trips.

Landmark View 3D is s a $40 upgrade for Navigon's 2200T model and has the ability to display 600 North American landmark buildings in 3D to aid directions... or at least add some novelty to your nav. In keeping with the tourist theme, scenic routes and city guides will be available for $20 each. The scenic routes will feature weekend getaway suggestions, picturesque tours and regional trips. More than 1,400 cites are covered in the guides and routes can be customized to fit your interests. And for another $30 a year, Navigon owners can now be alerted to red light camera locations.

Headed overseas? Add maps of 38 European countries to your Navigon for $130. The update comes pre-loaded on an SD card and covers 4.5 million miles of road and millions of points of interest. The new features will be available for download from the Navigon Fresh software website sometime in the Spring.

CES 2009: Navigon takes routing personal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Jan 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpsnavigationnavigonrand mcnallyRandMcnallySat, 10 Jan 2009 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Azentek nav-equipped SmartMirror coming end of year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/15/azentek-nav-equipped-smartmirror-coming-end-of-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/15/azentek-nav-equipped-smartmirror-coming-end-of-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/15/azentek-nav-equipped-smartmirror-coming-end-of-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Everything is in line to be a convergence device, and now the boring rear view mirror has stepped under the lights to get stuffed with extra equipment. The Azentek SmartMirror has a four-inch touchscreen on the right for a 2D and 3D text-to-speech GPS display. It's also offers Bluetooth connectivity, a call log, and caller ID. It has two video inputs, one that can be used for a rear view camera, and an SD card slot in case you want to record... well, whatever you might want to record with your rear view mirror.

The only thing missing from the mirror is availability -- it's been so popular that Azentek can't supply enough of them. The company says that will change later this year when you'll be able to get it at major retailers. The other potential hitch: it'll cost you $800 to do what your phone, TomTom, and regular mirror already do.

[Source: Engadget]

Azentek nav-equipped SmartMirror coming end of year originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesazentekazentek smart mirrorAzentekSmartMirrorgadgetsgpsrear view mirrorRearViewMirrorsmart mirrorsmartmirrortechWed, 15 Oct 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[PigTones offering Yoda, Terminator and Stewie nav voices]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/30/pigtones-offering-yoda-terminator-and-stewie-nav-voices/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/30/pigtones-offering-yoda-terminator-and-stewie-nav-voices/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/30/pigtones-offering-yoda-terminator-and-stewie-nav-voices/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



"Left at the next exit you will turn," or so we imagine none other than Jedi Master Yoda telling us as we attempt to pilot our land speeders toward some unknown destination. You can now download Yoda as the voice of your TomTom or Garmin GPS unit courtesy of a company named PigTones and a fee of $12.97. Not a Star Wars fan? Well, you should be (at least of the original trilogy). There's always the Terminator. On second thought, who wants to be told to make a legal U-turn by the governor of California? That leaves Stewie from The Family Guy. He's the megolomaniacal infant that's hell bent on killing his mother, Lois. There are others to choose from too, some raunchier than others. Click here for the full list. Thanks for the tip, yash!

[Source: PIGtones via The Earth Times]

PigTones offering Yoda, Terminator and Stewie nav voices originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>garmin voicegarmin voicesGarminVoiceGarminVoicesgpsgps voicegps voicesGpsVoiceGpsVoicesnavigation voicenavigation voicesNavigationVoiceNavigationVoicesstewie voiceStewieVoiceterminator voiceTerminatorVoicetomtom voicetomtom voicesTomtomVoiceTomtomVoicesyoda voiceYodaVoiceTue, 30 Sep 2008 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Dynolicious turns iPhone into cheap performance meter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/29/dynolicious-turns-iphone-into-cheap-performance-meter/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/29/dynolicious-turns-iphone-into-cheap-performance-meter/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/29/dynolicious-turns-iphone-into-cheap-performance-meter/#commentsFiled under: ,

The world has gone iPhone crazy since Apple released v2.0 of its sleek mobile device, and while GPS and 3G have been big draws, the multitude of available software apps in the new App Store has been the real wild card. One app that has us really psyched is a new automotive performance meter called Dynolicious from BunsenTech. It uses the accelerometer inside the iPhone to let you record 0-10 through 0-100 times, quarter mile and trap speed, Lateral Gs, horsepower and more. Results are also displayed in real-time on the phone itself with graphs and a speedometer. You can also configure the tool with updates to your car, weight, before and after performance measurements, and keep a complete history of all your runs. The kicker is that you don't even have to plug in your iPhone anywhere, just set it in the cup holder and drive. The folks at Dynolicious promise 0-60 accuracy to within .08 seconds and a quarter mile speed to within 1.5 mph. The performance meter software should also work with the iPod Touch.

The Dynolicious performance meter is now available on iTunes for $12.99 despite its own website saying that it's coming soon. The app has an average rating of four stars out of five so far with 11 user reviews and counting. We're going to purchase the software ASAP and take it for a spin, so we'll let you know soon if it delivers on its lofty promises. Check out more screen shots of Dynolicious in the gallery below. Thanks for the tip, Fooman!

Gallery: Dynolicious screen shots


[Source: Dynolicious, iTunes]

Dynolicious turns iPhone into cheap performance meter originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This is the JATY DR7200 GPS, and it does a lot more than just tell you where you are and how to get where you're going on that 7-inch screen. You see, it's got an integrated breathalyzer, too, so it'll also tell you whether you should even be trying to get where you're going. Blow "over" and you get a standard BAC readout, a red "OVER" warning, and if that's not enough, a yellow skull and crossbones to drive home the point that, well, you really shouldn't be driving at all. In addition to all that, it supports just about every techno-acronym you can imagine (USB, MP3, DiVX, JPEG, MPEG, etc.), so if you're in no shape to drive, you can at least watch a movie on the thing while you wait it out. Want one? Just run on down to the local electronics store...in Korea.

[Source: Engadget]

JATY DR7200: Breathalyzer and nav...all in one! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breathalyzerdr7200gpsjatykoreanavWed, 16 Jul 2008 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone app finds your car, dude]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/iphone-app-finds-your-car-dude/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/iphone-app-finds-your-car-dude/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/iphone-app-finds-your-car-dude/#commentsFiled under:

We've known for a while that the new iPhone 3G would have the magic of GPS, but we didn't fully realize how that power might benefit car owners. While we've seen a few semi-cool, car-centric applications available for the device -- from mpg calculators to maintenance reminders -- this program could prove the most useful for the forgetful among us.

After parking your car at a crowded shopping mall, users of G-Park tell their iPhone where their car is. When they wrap up their shopping, the application will provide directions back to the car.

PosiMotion says their application will even work on the first-generation iPhone, though without the accuracy of GPS.

There's no word on when the application will be available or what it will cost, but avoiding the shame of wandering parking lots for hours looking for a tan Camry is worth any price.

[Source: Gizmodo via Gizmag]

iPhone app finds your car, dude originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Internets are abuzz with the announcement of an all-new iPhone, and with features like 3G data connections, new applications and GPS navigation, we're excited too. If you've been making plans to produce your own navigation app for iPhone 2.0, however, you may not be all that thrilled. A closer look at the iPhone SDK agreement shows that creating software for "real-time route guidance" is forbidden. This may mean that the creative kids at Cupertino aren't going to let anyone compete with the the Google maps solution it's already settled on. If true, companies like Garmin and TomTom, the latter of which has already confirmed that it's created a navigation app, would be unable to create salable navigation software for the popular touch-screen phone. Then again, you also can't do automatic or autonomous control of vehicles, aircraft, or other mechanical devices; dispatch or fleet management software; or use the iPhone for emergency or life-saving purposes.

Our friends over at Engadget may be on to something, however, when they note that Apple may just be covering its rear-quarters in the event people start suing for bad directions. Lets hope it's just a liability thing, because competition is always a good thing when it comes to new technology, and we want some TomTom on our new iPhone.

[Source: Engadget]

Apple forbids navigation apps on iPhone 3G (except its own) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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