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[Review: Google Maps turn-by-turn navigation on Android 2.0]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/review-google-maps-turn-by-turn-navigation-on-android-2-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/review-google-maps-turn-by-turn-navigation-on-android-2-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/review-google-maps-turn-by-turn-navigation-on-android-2-0/#commentsFiled under: ,

Google maps turn by turn navigation - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's no secret that we've been openly critical of the prices charged by automakers for built-in GPS navigation systems. Frankly, paying $2,000 or more for an in-dash system when you can buy stand-alone navigation units for as little as $100 is ridiculous. Even the newer, larger seven-inch screen units are now down to as little as $250, and even though they aren't tied in to a vehicles' wheel sensors, they tend to be plenty accurate. Now, however, there is a new option that is even cheaper - as in (sort of) free.

It's only "sort of" free because the Google maps turn-by-turn navigation app is built into the new Motorola Droid smartphone (see sister-site Engadget's full review of the Droid here) that recently became available from Verizon Wireless. In this case, you have to sign up for two years of mobile phone service, which includes a data plan. I've been a Verizon customer for a decade and just happened to be up for a biennial discounted phone upgrade. When the Droid appeared a few weeks ago, the plan to wait until the new year for a Palm Pre was discarded. We've now had the chance to play with the Droid and its new navigation software, so follow the jump to find out if it lives up to expectations.


Gallery: Motorola Droid Google Navigation

Continue reading Review: Google Maps turn-by-turn navigation on Android 2.0

Review: Google Maps turn-by-turn navigation on Android 2.0 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 1.6android 2.0android navigationAndroid1.6Android2.0AndroidNavigationdroiddroid navigationDroidNavigationfeaturefeaturedfeaturesgooglegoogle mapsgoogle maps turn by turn navigationGoogleMapsGoogleMapsTurnByTurnNavigationMotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidnavigation systemnavigation systemsNavigationSystemNavigationSystemsNavigationUnitreviewturn by turnturn by turn directionsturn by turn navigationTurnByTurnTurnByTurnDirectionsTurnByTurnNavigationTue, 01 Dec 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Nav for All: Nissan offering inexpensive nav system on popular cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-to-offer-low-price-nav-system-for-high-volume-products/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-to-offer-low-price-nav-system-for-high-volume-products/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-to-offer-low-price-nav-system-for-high-volume-products/#commentsFiled under: ,



When navigation systems started showing up in the center stacks of luxury vehicles, the new (at the time) tech typically would set owners back a couple grand or more (and still does). As we gear up for 2010, mapping tech is everywhere from the most expensive luxury sleds to economical hatchbacks, but there is still one problem. If you want an LCD screen with navigation capability, the option will still set you back from over $1,000 to above and beyond $2,000 in most cases. The only exception is Suzuki, which includes its TRIP nav system as standard equipment on the sub-$20k SX4.

Nissan is looking to change the navi pricing paradigm by offering a $400 navigation system in some of its high volume 2010 MY products. That's $400, or the same price as Ford's LCD-less SYNC system. Or less than half the price of most options available in vehicles today. The nav system, which was developed by Nissan and Bosch, gives directions, integrates your tunes with USB and Aux inputs and has integrated Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling. The low cost system also connects with a backup camera and can help you save money by pointing out the route that will cost you the least fuel.

The Detroit News reviewed the nav system in 2010 Nissan Sentra and came away impressed with its overall operation, though the smallish five-inch LCD screen was reportedly a bit hard to read at times. We're hoping low cost navvies are here to stay, and with the ultra-competitive nature of the auto industry, we're thinking any automaker that doesn't follow Nissan's lead will be at a major competitive disadvantage.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Nav for All: Nissan offering inexpensive nav system on popular cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 nissan sentra2010NissanSentralow cost navigationLowCostNavigationnavigation systemNavigationSystemnissannissan navigationNissanNavigationMon, 30 Nov 2009 09:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Microsoft may one-up Google Street View with virtual video drives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-microsoft-may-one-up-google-street-view-with-virtual-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-microsoft-may-one-up-google-street-view-with-virtual-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-microsoft-may-one-up-google-street-view-with-virtual-vide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Click above to view the video after the jump

Until cars drive themselves and we absolutely can't get lost, automakers and sat nav companies are steadily enhancing the graphics of navigation systems to make it easier to find the next right turn. Navigation systems in Renaults, for instance, provide a graphic representation of buildings that you'll see as you drive along, and now Microsoft, working with researchers at the University of Konstanz in Germany, have added video to navigational maps.

The project took the snapshots of cities collected by mapping companies (like Google Streetview does) and 'plays' them like video at important sections of the route. The text route and route overview are still provided, the video simply aids in noting or remembering where you need to remember a crucial direction.

You can watch the video before you actually get in your car so that, like cheating for an exam, you'll visually recognize the turn or a landmark when the time comes. The photographs are also skewed as necessary to create the right perspective, and when you get to a turn, the video will look in the proper direction beforehand so that you can note specific features. It's currently still in trial phase, but during the first study it improved people's ability to follow direction by 20 percent. Follow the jump to watch the video, and here's to no more getting lost. Soon.

[Source: Microsoft and MIT]

Continue reading VIDEO: Microsoft may one-up Google Street View with virtual video drives

VIDEO: Microsoft may one-up Google Street View with virtual video drives originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>germanyMicrosoftMicrosoft ResearchMicrosoftResearchnavinavigationnavigation systemNavigationSystemsatnavtechtechnologyuniversity of konstanzUniversityOfKonstanzvideoTue, 20 Oct 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Road Trip Review: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe with Navigation [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/road-trip-review-2010-hyundai-genesis-coupe-with-navigation-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/road-trip-review-2010-hyundai-genesis-coupe-with-navigation-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/road-trip-review-2010-hyundai-genesis-coupe-with-navigation-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe w/Nav - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been less than a year since the Hyundai Genesis Coupe hit the streets, but the Korean automaker isn't sitting on its hands. Just as it's done in the past, Hyundai is launching a steady stream of refreshed and redesigned models, and even new models - like the Genesis - are benefiting from the updates. At the top of Hyundai's list of early cycle improvements is fitting the Genesis Coupe with a satellite navigation system, something that's been missing since it's launch earlier this year. So after getting an exclusive glimpse of a prototype system in May, Hyundai invited us back to sample the production version in a few Coupes and one Sedan. How's it work? We hit the road to find out.


Gallery: Road Trip Review: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe with Navigation


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Road Trip Review: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe with Navigation [w/VIDEO]

Road Trip Review: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe with Navigation [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 hyundai2010 hyundai genesis coupe2010 hyundai genesis coupe navigation2010Hyundai2010HyundaiGenesisCoupe2010HyundaiGenesisCoupeNavigationfalsefeaturedgenesis coupeGenesisCoupehyundaihyundai genesishyundai genesis coupeHyundaiGenesisHyundaiGenesisCoupenavigationnavigation systemNavigationSystemnavigationsystemsreviewreviewsroad triproad trip reviewroad tripsRoadTripRoadTripReviewRoadTripsFri, 02 Oct 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[New Nissan driver-assist tech helps the James May in you find his inner Stig]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/26/new-nissan-driver-assist-tech-helps-thejames-may-in-you-find-his/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/26/new-nissan-driver-assist-tech-helps-thejames-may-in-you-find-his/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/26/new-nissan-driver-assist-tech-helps-thejames-may-in-you-find-his/#commentsFiled under: ,



For the last century, automotive engineers have worked diligently to send Charles Darwin's concept of natural selection into obsolescence. It appears that we're inching closer to the time when any fool with a pulse may be able to climb behind the wheel of car and traverse a series of curves looking much more like the white-helmeted mystery driver from Top Gear than Captain Slow. The new Nissan Fuga (known here as the Infiniti M), debuting this fall at the Tokyo Motor Show, will feature fresh technology including new driver assistance systems.

In this case, Infiniti has integrated the GPS navigation system (hope those satellites hang in there) with the M's electronic stability control. As always, ESC uses inertial sensors to detect what the car is actually doing and compares that information to the actual driver inputs to see if they match. If not (i.e. understeer or oversteer) the brakes are individually applied at each wheel and engine torque may be reduced to help make the car go where the driver intended.

The GPS integration allows the system to detect where the road is going ahead and further manipulate the car, while alerting the driver to slow down by pushing the throttle back against his or her footn. Maybe it's all just a part of Nissan's master plan to save trees by preventing cars from being wrapped around them. Or perhaps we're just seeing the evolution of the Idiocracy. You can read the official PR from Nissan after the jump.

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading New Nissan driver-assist tech helps the James May in you find his inner Stig

New Nissan driver-assist tech helps the James May in you find his inner Stig originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 infiniti m2010 nissan fuga2010InfinitiM2010NissanFugaelectronic stability controlelectronic stability programelectronic stabilty programElectronicStabilityControlElectronicStabilityProgramElectronicStabiltyPrograminfiniti mInfinitiMnavigationnavigation systemnavigation systemsNavigationSystemnavigationsystemsnissannissan fugaNissanFugaSun, 26 Jul 2009 11:41:00 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[Apple reportedly files patent for safer touch screen nav system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/29/apple-reportedly-files-patent-for-safer-touch-screen-nav-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/29/apple-reportedly-files-patent-for-safer-touch-screen-nav-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/29/apple-reportedly-files-patent-for-safer-touch-screen-nav-system/#commentsFiled under:

Navigation systems have become ubiquitous in vehicles ranging from $100,000 luxury cars to $16,000 compacts. The auto industry has been grappling with the best way to safely navigation, with some companies going to touchscreen units, while others opting for a joystick solution like BMW's iDrive. Either way, you're still taking your eye off the road, making nav use a potentially dangerous endeavor.

Apple may have other plans, however, as Cupertino has filed a patent for a safer touchscreen system. According to the filing, Apple's ideas include voice-activated directions; a detachable, iPhone-like device that can also be used as a still or video camera; and navigation that can only be accessed by the front seat passenger when the vehicle is moving.

The 11-page document also includes mention of wireless communication subsystems, such as 802.11b/g, Bluetooth, CDMA, GSM and EDGE. The wireless communications would enable the nav system to sync up with an iPhone to load information already stored on the latter before entering the car. The proposed Apple system sounds like SYNC on steroids, but the road from the patent office to the dashboard can be a long one. Hit the read link below for more info on Apple's extensive patent filing.

[Source: Apple Insider]

Apple reportedly files patent for safer touch screen nav system originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Mar 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple touch screenAppleTouchScreeniPhonenavigation systemNavigationSystemSun, 29 Mar 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[<em> Don't tell <b>ME</b> how to drive! </em> - Next-gen Ford navigation system could have "emotions" ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/em-dont-tell-b-me-b-how-to-drive-em-next-gen-ford-na/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/em-dont-tell-b-me-b-how-to-drive-em-next-gen-ford-na/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/em-dont-tell-b-me-b-how-to-drive-em-next-gen-ford-na/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



In the near future, Ford vehicles may fire back a retort if you get cheesed off enough to yell at the car. According to the details of a patent filing, Ford is working on an Emotive Advisory System (EAS) that simulates emotions when interacting with occupants, and may also use an avatar to express itself.

The EAS also uses sensors to detect the emotional state of occupants and generate responses based on that data. We all tend to forge some kind of bond with our cars, but it's a little too fantastical and hilarious to imagine rocking down the blacktop in a new Taurus SHO and having the car say "You don't need to drive like a jerk just because you're mad at me."


Gallery: Ford Next-Gen Navigation System


[Source: swdelaw]

Don't tell ME how to drive! - Next-gen Ford navigation system could have "emotions" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electronicsford nav emotionsford navigationFordNavEmotionsFordNavigationin car electronicsInCarElectronicsnavigation systemnavigation system emtionnavigation systemsNavigationSystemNavigationSystemEmtionNavigationSystemsTue, 10 Mar 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Navi<i>GONE</i>: Portable GPS system theft reportedly up 700%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/navi-i-gone-i-portable-gps-system-theft-up-700/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/navi-i-gone-i-portable-gps-system-theft-up-700/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/navi-i-gone-i-portable-gps-system-theft-up-700/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


More and more people are adding electronic gadgetry to their car's arsenal after their initial purchase, which often makes sense since it almost always costs less to add audio equipment or GPS navigation from an aftermarket company than it does to spec if from the factory.

Sadly, recent statistics prove that you'd better be careful with that shiny new piece of technology. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 24,700 portable navigation systems were swiped in 2008, representing a whopping 700% increase over 2006. While the number in thefts has rocketed skyward, the number of units sold have likewise gone supernova, leading us to wonder if the actual percentage of thefts over units in service has changed appreciably overall.

Apple's iPod is also attractive to thieves, who stole 17,000 of the little music players in '08. Perhaps the rise in iPod thefts helps explain why half as many car stereos (14,000) were stolen last year than in 2006, although we are willing to bet that automakers' continued move away from standard-sized, non-integrated head units is also a major factor.

Our common sense advice? Add-on nav systems and iPods are portable for a reason... remove them from your car when you leave it parked. Disaster averted.

[Source: Ecommerce Journal]

NaviGONE: Portable GPS system theft reportedly up 700% originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipod theftIpodTheftnavigationnavigation systemnavigation theftNavigationSystemNavigationTheftportable gpsportable gps theftportable media playerPortableGpsPortableGpsTheftPortableMediaPlayerTue, 03 Feb 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 Autoblog Holiday Sweepstakes - Day 6: TomTom XL330·S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/2008-autoblog-holiday-sweepstakes-day-6-tomtom-xl330-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/2008-autoblog-holiday-sweepstakes-day-6-tomtom-xl330-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/2008-autoblog-holiday-sweepstakes-day-6-tomtom-xl330-s/#commentsFiled under:


Click above to view TomTom's full line of portable navigation systems

We suspect that one of the most popular gift this holiday season will be portable navigation systems. Their prices are plummeting and every day new features are being added to these magical maps-in-a-box. TomTom is arguably one of the biggest and best manufacturers of portable nav systems, so we're proud to be giving away a TomTom XL330·S on Day 6 of the 2008 Autoblog Holiday Sweepstakes.

The XL330·S features a 4.3-inch widescreen for easy viewing, an EasyPort mount that folds into the back of the unit, TomTom's Map Share technology that allows you to edit your own maps and incorporate the edits of other users and it's RDS-TMC traffic ready. Of course, TomTom has a full line of portable nav systems that range in price from $99.95 to $449.95, which is still about 1/4 the cost of an OEM nav system. Read below on how to enter to win your own TomTom XL330·S.

HOW TO ENTER:
  • Leave a single comment on this post (if you leave two or more, all of your comments will be disqualified)
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person during entry period
  • This entry period begins 1:30 PM EST on Monday, December 22nd and ends at 12:00pm EST on Tuesday, December 23rd. We'll randomly select 1 winner at that time to receive a TomTom XL330·S navigation system (ARV: $199.95). Please check your e-mail!
  • For a list of complete rules, click here
Click here to view official rules and come back Monday around 12:30 PM EST to see what else we're giving away. Happy Holidays from your friendly neighborhood Autoblog!

Congratulations to hunterharleyinc who is the winner of the 2008 Autoblog Holiday Sweepstakes - Day 5! If you're hunterharleyinc please check your email and verify your eligibility. If you're not, comment on this post for your chance to win a TomTom XL330·S navigation system!

2008 Autoblog Holiday Sweepstakes - Day 6: TomTom XL330·S originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 autoblog holiday sweepstakes2008AutoblogHolidaySweepstakesnavigation systemNavigationSystemtomtomMon, 22 Dec 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz myCOMAND concept brings internet safely into cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/mercedes-benz-mycomand-concept-brings-internet-safely-into-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/mercedes-benz-mycomand-concept-brings-internet-safely-into-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/mercedes-benz-mycomand-concept-brings-internet-safely-into-cars/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mercedes Benz myCOMAND interface

German automakers have gotten plenty of flack for their less than intuitive Navigation/Infotainment systems, but Mercedes Benz is working hard to change that with its myCOMAND concept. The myCOMAND system uses high-speed wireless Internet with upload and download speeds of over 3MB to bring the connectivity of the web into any driver's hands. It's similar to interfaces from the competition in that it gives access to phone info, different types of digital media and the web. The difference comes from Mercedes' decision to go entirely Internet-based. Gone are hard drives, CD/DVD players and most computer hardware. Mercedes stuck with a thin-client and incredibly intuitive graphical user interface coupled with the ubiquitous Mercedes command controller to pull the strings.

We got a chance to sit in a myCOMAND-equipped Mercedes at the LA Auto Show today and were up to speed within seconds. We were able to surf the net (Autoblog was one of the presets, nice), explore Google Maps, check the weather and look for the cheapest gas in the area with minimal effort. The myCOMAND system is a concept right now and Mercedes engineers feel the technology is still a few years from production. It does, however, show the potential of future Infotainment systems, and we like what we see. See how it works by watching our video demonstration of myCOMAND with Mercedes Infotainment and Telematics VP Johann Jungwirth above, and you can view high-res pics of the system from Mercedes in the gallery below. As always, a press release with all the official details is after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes myCOMAND system

Continue reading VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz myCOMAND concept brings internet safely into cars

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz myCOMAND concept brings internet safely into cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ginfotainment systemInfotainmentSysteminternetmercedes benzMercedesBenzmyCOMANDnavigation systemNavigationSystemThu, 20 Nov 2008 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW ditching navigation DVDs for 2009]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/22/bmw-ditching-navigation-dvds-for-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/22/bmw-ditching-navigation-dvds-for-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/22/bmw-ditching-navigation-dvds-for-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,

BMW's MY 2009 cars will get a new iDrive system with a 40GB hard drive. According to Bimmerfile, the drive allotment will have 12GB dedicated to navigational maps (and 8GB for entertainment and 10GB for your address book, because you've got more friends than music, apparently). With nav maps placed on the hard drive, BMW will no longer be providing a case full of map DVDs. The maps will have the entire US on them, or Europe if you pick up your car at BMW Welt. When things have moved on and it's time to get your maps updated, you'll take your car and your checkbook to a BMW dealer, and they'll install U.S. v2.0.

[Source: BMW Blog]

BMW ditching navigation DVDs for 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwhard drivehard drivesharddriveHardDrivesnavnavinavigationnavigation systemNavigationSystemnavigationsystemsSun, 22 Jun 2008 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Teddy bear nav system points way home]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/19/teddy-bear-nav-system-points-way-home/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/19/teddy-bear-nav-system-points-way-home/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/19/teddy-bear-nav-system-points-way-home/#commentsFiled under: ,

Most of us don't like to be yelled at while driving, but a company called IXs Rearch is betting that there must be some people out there who want a suitable replacement for the nagging spouse when they're in the car alone. The tech company has developed a high-tech teddy bear that can do everything from spout directions to yelling "Watch Out!" when you brake too fast. The "Navi-Bear" is packed with technologies that can help drivers stay safe and get from point A to point B without fuss. The robotic bear has sensors that can detect alcohol on the driver's breath, can tell you when you need to turn on your headlights, and use its robotic arm to point in the direction you're supposed to turn. If this annoying little gadget is just what you're looking for, except you're scared of stuffed animals, IXs Research is also working with other forms besides lovable bears, too. Somehow we doubt there will be a Megan Fox navigation assistant coming any time soon.

Do robotic co-pilots have a place on American roads? We hope not, but they're only a few months from being sold in Japan, and if they're a hit there, then there's a good chance they'll end up here, too. We'll be armed and ready if that ever happens.

[Source: Wired]

Teddy bear nav system points way home originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ixs researchIxsResearchnavi-bearnavigation systemNavigationSystemThu, 19 Jun 2008 16:59:00 EST<![CDATA[How about a <em><i>smaller</i></em> nav screen? Magna develops in-mirror display]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/13/how-about-a-em-i-smaller-i-em-nav-screen-magna-develops-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/13/how-about-a-em-i-smaller-i-em-nav-screen-magna-develops-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/13/how-about-a-em-i-smaller-i-em-nav-screen-magna-develops-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,



While Ford's giving the Fusion an LCD large enough to watch feature films, Magna has joined up with Swiss firm u-blox and Germany's Paragon to develop a navigation system that puts the map display in your rearview mirror. The system is called MirrorPilot, and it does look like a slick way to add factory navigation with a minimum of effort on the automaker's part. It's also far nicer than suction-cupping some aftermarket unit to the windshield and dealing with its tangle of cables. It's not just a mirror with a display; the MirrorPilot incorporates a GPS receiver and antenna, as well as a speaker. The mirror itself self-dims electrochromically, and the display automatically zooms at intersections and also comes with a remote control. The screen may be small, but the cost is large; this unit will be priced above $1,000 when it goes on sale in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. While it's a nice idea, it's not $1,000 worth of nice, especially with such a diminutive screen. We'll buy a cheaper unit and stock up on zip ties to keep the wires in check, which should leave enough in our pocket for a very nice dinner out - we'll just punch up a fancy restaurant on the POI menu.

[Source: Inside Line]

How about a smaller nav screen? Magna develops in-mirror display originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We already know that in-car web browsing is on its way. Both BMW and Chrysler have already revealed that the feature is forthcoming in their vehicles, and more automakers are sure to follow. But telematics provider ATX Group is sticking its nose in to ensure that the web we're one day browsing in our cars is safe to use (read: no fun at all). ATX is working with a group called the Connected Vehicle Trade Association to push a standardized method for getting web content into automobiles. ATX is exploring ways to adapt the traditional web experience to meet the demands of the automotive environment, similar to the way mobile versions of websites target cellphone browsers, nevermind that the mobile web experience pales in comparison to surfing normal websites on a device like the iPhone, which works inside cars last time we checked. One idea is to target automobile surfing through implementation of a standard top-level domain, .car, which would house content specifically designed to work with the to-be-determined vehicular web standard.

With safety in mind, we're guessing that ATX and the CVTA will kick around a text-to-speech function that allows pages to be read-aloud to a driver by the embedded hardware, and possibly a standardization of page size for reliably fast loading. Telematics also opens up another area for targeted services, such as remote diagnostics, parental surveillance via performance monitoring, and dynamic traffic information. Developing a standard also helps automakers avoid duplicating each others' efforts as they all race to deliver E! Online to your dashboard. Ah yes, in-car internet will no doubt be the latest whiz-bang distraction from the task of actually driving one's car.

[Source: ATX]

Continue reading Drivers may surf .car websites while driving

Drivers may surf .car websites while driving originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 May 2008 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Honda's launching the next step in navigation system evolution that will automatically warn drivers to be on guard when traveling through areas of high crime. The system is launching in Japan on Tuesday, but we haven't heard of any plans to bring it to the United States. It's probably for the best, as there'd be wide swaths of the country that this navi would recommend you avoid. Places like Washington DC, where crime is apparently legal and perpetrated by criminals with offices and staffs. Detroit might be marked with an avoidance warning too, but that's more likely due to Honda wanting to avoid a Jets-Sharks danceoff.

Honda's warning system uses historical data from the Japanese police to pinpoint areas where vehicle damage or theft has happened in the past. Areas then receive ratings based on the level of danger they pose to automobiles just passing through. We guess it could be useful for people who don't take notice of their surroundings when behind the wheel, but some of us may lump it in with other "safety" annoyances like self-locking doors.

[Source: AFP]

Honda system warns motorists of crime hotspots, steers clear of Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As of today, we're taking bets to see how long it will take before people realize that "GPS" does not stand for "Auto Pilot." The latest "But the GPS told me to..." story is brought to you by a charter bus driver in Seattle. Piloting a coach through the Washington Arboretum -- as the GPS instructed him -- the driver ignored, or didn't see, or didn't believe (take your pick) the flashing lights and sign warning him that his 11-foot-high bus was too tall for the looming 9-foot concrete overpass.

You can see how the story ends. The overpass ended up with some superficial damage, the coach got a removable top, and the girls softball team inside received some minor injuries. Luckily, the 60-inch sewage pipe inside the overpass wasn't ruptured. The driver was ticketed for $154. And in response to the charter company executive who remarked, "We just thought it would be a safe route because, why else would they have a selection for a bus?", a Garmin spokesman responded "Stoplights aren't in our databases, either, but you're still expected to stop for stoplights."

[Source: Seattle Pi]

Driver puts faith in GPS, shears off top of charter bus on bridge originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The latest gizmo from Japan's Takata will tell you where to go, but not like those verbally abusive digital keychains from the '90s. The Takata CSW steering wheel is designed to interface with sensors in your vehicle and display different messages on an LCD screen in the 12 o'clock position. There are already lights and sirens to let you know if your door is ajar or the washer fluid is low, but the CSW wheel's best trick is that it will talk to the Navigon 7100 navigation system, should you have one. It's an interesting cross-brand lashup that is pushing the envelope of aftermarket integration.

The screen in the wheel works in conjunction with the larger screen in the navigation unit to display instructions, though the improvement over just the Navigon would likely be sufficient. Both the wheel and the Navi can reportedly poll vehicle sensors, though we're not sure exactly how, so the systems would be more aware of what the driver is doing beyond merely position data. Both companies hope the wheel will reduce driver distraction, though we're not convinced that looking down to the wheel rim is any safer or more convenient than the slight gaze diversion to the customary upper center of the dashboard. We don't know of any manufacturer plans to OEM-issue these units, but the effort could portend a future convergence in the gadget galaxy.

[Source: Navigadget via Kicking Tires; Photo: SoundDomain]

Smart, but flawed: Steering wheel navigation screen originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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"Open the pod bay doors, HAL."
"I'm sorry, Dave, I can't do that."

That type of belligerence might be coming to your car under the guise of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Many cars can already be had with the necessary hardware like GPS navigation systems that help a vehicle determine its position, and stability control that can already fire individual brakes to effect course corrections. Is the next step writing the software to interconnect those systems into an active safety net? This would effectively enable the car to steer you out of trouble if it compares your trajectory with the nav system and determines you're off-course.

Passive safety systems have seemingly hit a wall, and the mass that all that crash safety adds must be either offset through the use of more exotic and expensive materials, or the result is a stupendously heavy vehicle. The next step will be active safety, a baby-step that has already been made with stability control and active cruise control. Current maps in navigation systems aren't adequate for driver aids, as they're mainly bird's-eye-view positional representations. Once maps with more data become available, the possibility of your car bringing all its situational awareness equipment to bear so that it can execute lane changes and warn you about a blind hairpin curve coming up might not be such fantasy.

[Source: Automotive Design Line]

I'm sorry, Dave - more autonomy in the name of safety? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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J.D. Power and Associates has polled owners of factory-nav equipped vehicles, and Infiniti's zippy-performing setup gets the nod for top honors from end users. Part of the win might be chalked up to the hard drive that the Infiniti system comes with, making it more responsive than a DVD based navigation system. Infiniti owners also tend to be more tech savvy than owners of other navigation-equipped vehicles, further contributing to the win. The study's results show that even after coming up with a few extra thousand dollars to get the fancy LCD in the dash, most drivers hardly scratch the surface of what the systems can do for them. Apparently, watching a little triangle follow an animated route is all many owners ever use their nav systems for, preferring to be even more helpless and use live operators to talk them in.

Ignorance leads to negative comments about maps that are out of date (easily rectified via updates), while actual technology gets in the way when it comes to wonky voice activation and real time traffic updates that have limited coverage in some areas. Despite the complaints, most owners declined to go back to the dealer for any kind of solution. Some owners apparently purchase navigation systems because they like the fancy cachet, while others actually use the systems. Those that use their nav more than twice a week tended to be more satisfied, pretty much proving that navigation systems are complex and take time to learn how to fully utilize before they're more than an expensive electronic bauble. Having used the Infiniti navigation system, we can say that it is among the best when it comes to ease of use and accuracy, but unfortunately, we're not junketing enough to far flung locales to actually need it.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Infiniti G35's sat-nav ranks top among users originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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