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[J.D. Power releases sat-nav study findings, crowns Ford tops]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/jd-power-releases-sat-nav-study-findings-crowns-ford-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/jd-power-releases-sat-nav-study-findings-crowns-ford-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/jd-power-releases-sat-nav-study-findings-crowns-ford-tops/#commentsFiled under: ,



Not only does Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey, it ranks number two as well. The top ranking system, according to Power's study, is the one found in the Lincoln MKS, followed by a nearly identical system (if not 100% identical) in the Ford Flex. And get this, Ford took down five of the top ten spots with the F-150 coming in fourth and the Escape and Edge taking seventh and eighth place, respectively.

To anyone that's driven a modern Sync-equipped Ford with navigation, these survey results probably won't come as any sort of shock, as FoMoCo has been making some of the best systems in the business ever since they released Sync with Sirius Travel Link. Here's what Ford user interface design engineer Jason Johnson had to tell us about why Ford got ranked tops:
"I think what really makes our system stand out is the fact it's designed with the user in mind. Yes, it has all the features you'd expect from a high-level navigation system -- the 3-D maps, the digital jukebox, the customizable home screens, and of course we pride ourselves on SYNC and SIRIUS Travel Link -- but it's more than that. This system is easy to use. It's intuitive. The buttons are where you'd expect them to be, the grouping is logical and the graphics are bright and easy to read. Everything is integrated, so it all works together, simply and easily."
Non-Ford top ten nav-system finishers include the Acura TL (third), Porsche 911 (fifth), Cadillac CTS (sixth), Hyundai Genesis (ninth) and Infiniti FX-series (tenth). Interestingly, Ford is the only non-luxury/premium brand to make it into the top ten. If you were wondering, seven of the bottom ten nav-systems were made by Toyota, with the Avalon finishing dead last. Complete results list and official press release available after the jump.
[Source: J.D. Power]

Continue reading J.D. Power releases sat-nav study findings, crowns Ford tops

J.D. Power releases sat-nav study findings, crowns Ford tops originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FlexFordFord FlexFordFlexJ.D. PowerJ.d.PowerJD PowerJD Power and AssociatesJdPowerJdPowerAndAssociatesLincolnLincoln MKSLincolnMksMKSNavigationsat-navsatnavSiriusSirius Travel LinkSiriusTravelLinkSyncMon, 07 Dec 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Which iPhone navigation app should you buy? This'll help]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/which-iphone-navigation-app-should-you-buy-thisll-help/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/which-iphone-navigation-app-should-you-buy-thisll-help/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/which-iphone-navigation-app-should-you-buy-thisll-help/#commentsFiled under: ,



The season of hitting the roads to places you don't really want to go, so that you can give gifts you didn't really want to buy and eat food you don't really like has begun. Naturally, a lot more people on the road means a lot more folks getting lost. Fear not, you invincible iPhone-equipped holiday travelers: Appcast has ranked the created a list of navigation apps taking into account 31 different features and metrics.

With all the measuring they've done, they leave the decision of which one is best up to you. But with factors such as coverage area, traffic and speed camera notifications, demo routes, and even text-to-speech (including how the application handles voice instructions when the phone is playing music), you should have plenty of tools to make the best choice for your tastes.

There are seven apps tested, starting at $29.99. One of them could help make your holiday treks that much more manageable -- but they still won't eat fruitcake.

[Source: Appcast]

Which iPhone navigation app should you buy? This'll help originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeappcastsAppleappsAppStorenavnavinavigationsatnavtechFri, 27 Nov 2009 13:57:00 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[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[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[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[Audi introduces the next MMI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/21/audi-introduces-the-next-mmi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/21/audi-introduces-the-next-mmi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/21/audi-introduces-the-next-mmi/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you're buying an A8 this year, prepare to spend a lot of time getting to know your new MMI system. We have consistently thought that Audi's buttons-and-knob interface is the best, and it looks like they've put an entire NASA team on the job of making it better. A seven-inch TFT screen with 800x400 resolution is now controlled by an 8-position joystick. Moving from one screen to another is done via "elegant crossfades," which sounds a bit PowerPoint-ish, but we'll wait until we see it to judge. And among other improvements, navigational maps can be rendered in "birds-eye perspective" 3D, with topographical map coloration. The only thing missing is the Encyclopedia Britanica. You can check out the exhaustive press release after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi introduces the next MMI

Audi introduces the next MMI originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a8audiaudi a8audi mmiAudiA8AudiMmicar audioCarAudioelectronicsmminavinavigationsatnavMon, 21 Jul 2008 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Suzuki SX4 Special Edition gets TRIP navigation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/05/suzuki-sx4-special-edition-gets-trip-navigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/05/suzuki-sx4-special-edition-gets-trip-navigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/05/suzuki-sx4-special-edition-gets-trip-navigation/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



As previously reported, Suzuki has decided to include navigation on its SX4 Sport and Crossover before you make the first mark on the options list. That will make the $15,999 car the lowest priced car in America to come standard with talking maps. And now they're set to arrive in the SX4 Special Editions that arrive in Suzuki showrooms this month.

To recap, the nav system is called TRIP -- Travel, Real-time traffic, Information, and Play -- and incorporates several Microsoft features. Drivers can get traffic info, weather reports, headline news, stock quotes, movie listings, the lowest priced gas in the area, and directions to 500 nationwide Suzuki dealerships. If buyers go for the expansion module, they'll also get Fodor guide reviews of eateries and nightlife spots. It sounds like an awful lot to do in such a little car, but that's the march of progress.

[Source: Suzuki]

Suzuki SX4 Special Edition gets TRIP navigation originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 08:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovernavnavinavigationsatnavsuzukisuzuki sx4suzuki sx4 crossoversuzuki sx4 limited editionsuzuki sx4 sedansuzuki sx4 sportSuzukiSx4SuzukiSx4CrossoverSuzukiSx4LimitedEditionSuzukiSx4SedanSuzukiSx4SportSat, 05 Jul 2008 08:35:00 EST<![CDATA[UK Department for Transportation to set standards for satnav systems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/31/uk-department-for-transportation-to-set-standards-for-satnav-sys/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/31/uk-department-for-transportation-to-set-standards-for-satnav-sys/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/31/uk-department-for-transportation-to-set-standards-for-satnav-sys/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The UK's Department for Transportation (DfT) is trying to put an end to situations like the one you see above. A woman headed to a christening party, paying attention to her satnav -- and little else, apparently -- drove down a road marked "Unsuitable for motor vehicles," and then drove into a swollen river because that's what her navi told her to do.

The DfT wants satnav makers to improve their directions, and also wants them to start providing alternate routes depending on the particular car. In addition to consumer complaints, the DfT is also reacting to increasing incidents of truck drivers getting stranded on narrow country lanes. The 2,000 times it happens each year are estimated to cost £10 million and create 5,000 hours in delays.

The DfT will essentially issue a seal of approval that it wants buyers to look for as a sign of directional quality. We still don't know what they plan to do about drivers who ignore signs that say, "Don't drive down this road," and people who think its OK to ford a river just because the little voice inside their cars says so.

[Source: WhatCar?]

UK Department for Transportation to set standards for satnav systems originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentsdepartment for transportationDepartmentForTransportationgpslorrynavigationsatnavukMon, 31 Mar 2008 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Google help European drivers navigate better, read Autoblog]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/14/bmw-and-google-help-european-drivers-navigate-better-read-autob/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/14/bmw-and-google-help-european-drivers-navigate-better-read-autob/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/14/bmw-and-google-help-european-drivers-navigate-better-read-autob/#commentsFiled under: ,



Those of you rolling in any new BMW model equipped with sat nav and Bluetooth connectability, save the Z4 and X3, can now integrate Google's useful, albeit sometimes erroneous, route plotting into your Bimmer. The joint effort between ze Germans and the search overlords allow users to log onto Google Maps UK, plan their route and then send the information to the vehicle's sat nav.

While that might seem like a redundancy, the truly sweet feature of the system is the ability to import ten RSS feeds into the BMW's computer, allowing you to check up on the happenings of the automotive world from your go-to obessives at Autoblog. Just try to avoid gawking at galleries while in route to pick up the kiddies.

BMW's full press release is posted post jump.

Continue reading BMW and Google help European drivers navigate better, read Autoblog

BMW and Google help European drivers navigate better, read Autoblog originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw google rssBmwGoogleRssgooglegoogle mapsGoogleMapsrsssat navsatellite navigationSatelliteNavigationSatNavukFri, 14 Dec 2007 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[OnStar and MapQuest hook up on in-car navigation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/25/onstar-and-mapquest-hook-up-on-in-car-navigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/25/onstar-and-mapquest-hook-up-on-in-car-navigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/25/onstar-and-mapquest-hook-up-on-in-car-navigation/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A little while ago we reported on BMW using Google Maps to help motorists who might be directionally challenged. These BMW owners can conduct a trvael search on their home computer and beam the destination straight to their Bimmer. It makes entering the destination into the car's navi unnecessary and the whole process a little safer and error proof.

Well, now we can officially declare this a trend between mappers and automakers. GM has teamed up with Mapquest to allow Turn-by-Turn Mapquest search results to be sent directly to an OnStar-equipped vehicle. According to the press release, "This new Turn-by-Turn service enhancement, OnStar Web Destination Entry, will allow subscribers to conveniently use MapQuest.com to research and plan their driving destinations with more than 15 million points-of-interest available through the number one mapping Web site." More than two million 2007 GM models will get the upgrade and another 3 million will be added in 2008. The service upgrade will start with a pilot program this summer and will be opened up to all OnStar subscribers with Turn-by-Turn navigation-capable vehicles by the end of the year. In the interest of full disclosure, AOL is the parent company of both Weblogs, Inc. and Mapquest.

[Source: GM]

OnStar and MapQuest hook up on in-car navigation originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GPSMapquestOnStarOnStar Web Destination EntryOnstarWebDestinationEntrysatnavWed, 25 Apr 2007 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Pay no attention to the voice of God in your car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/27/pay-no-attention-to-the-voice-of-god-in-your-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/27/pay-no-attention-to-the-voice-of-god-in-your-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/27/pay-no-attention-to-the-voice-of-god-in-your-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,

OK, we know how useful you're finding your sat/nav system, but please ignore it. That seems to be the message being sent to motorists passing through the village of Exton in Hampshire. Seems the navi tells drivers to take a road that is just 6 feet wide. Not a problem for most, but for drivers of large vehicles, especially trucks (or lorries, as the Brits call them), the result is usually a stuck rig. So the town has put up the country's first signs warning drivers to explicitly ignore their systems.

Poor Beacon Hill Lane has had its fill of flattened bushes and flowerbeds. So the residents pressured the council to do something about it. The council put up the signs last year and the residents have said it has improved the situation markedly. It's scary when obeying technology overrides our common sense, but this seems to be a trend. Cell phones are an obvious target, but GPS has been to blame in France already, and German motorists seem to be particularly adept at driving off piers or into construction sites when prompted by the voice in the box. Let's be careful out there, folks.

[Source: Daily Mail via ARBROATH]

Pay no attention to the voice of God in your car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Feb 2007 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ExtonGPSHampshirenavigation systemNavigationSystemsat/navsatnavTue, 27 Feb 2007 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[New navi in UK guarantees no speeding tickets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/04/new-navi-in-uk-guarantees-no-speeding-tickets/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/04/new-navi-in-uk-guarantees-no-speeding-tickets/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/04/new-navi-in-uk-guarantees-no-speeding-tickets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Though the isle of Britain isn't that large in terms of square miles, it still contains 24,000 potential speed traps (about the same number in Ohio, we think). The Rossini Navigator and Camera Spotter is a satellite navigation unit that has each one of those traps plotted on its digital topography and will audibly warn a driver if one is fast approaching. The unit also does the whole door-to-door, turn-by-turn navigation thing, but the addition of such comprehensive camera spotting technology moves it to the head of the class. The distributer of the Rossini Navigator, Car Parts Direct, has also decided to guarantee the device will keep you ticket free in the UK by offering £60 cashback if the device offers no warning of a speed trap and a ticket is issued. Those purchasing the Rossini Nav system will also get free camera updates emailed to them through January of 2009, since most people don't bother to go get updates on thier own when they're made available. The unit costs £399 and is ready to use right out of the box.

[Source: Car Parts Direct]

New navi in UK guarantees no speeding tickets originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Dec 2006 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracar parts directCarPartsDirectnav systemnaviNavSystemrossini navigatorRossiniNavigatorsat navSatNavspeed cameraspeed trapspeed trapsSpeedCameraSpeedTrapSpeedTrapsMon, 04 Dec 2006 16:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Nav system in Zephyr rated best in the biz]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/14/nav-system-in-zephyr-rated-best-in-the-biz/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/14/nav-system-in-zephyr-rated-best-in-the-biz/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/14/nav-system-in-zephyr-rated-best-in-the-biz/#commentsFiled under: ,

Having reviewed many vehicles in my day, I can tell you unequivocally that not all satellite navigation systems are created equal. Just checking the sat nav box on the options sheet doesn't guarantee you'll be getting a system that's easy to use and will get you where you want to go. Those who know me will tell you that I've often sung the praises of Ford's sat nav systems, specifically the ones found in Lincoln models. My first experience with these factory-installed Pioneer units came from a review of the Lincoln LS I did back in the day, and I was happy to find an equally agreeable sat nav in the Lincoln Zephyr we tested back in March. So permit me to feel vindicated when I inform you that J.D. Power and Associates has just released its 2006 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study in which the Lincoln Zephyr's navigation system received the highest rankign. J.D. rates these factory installed nav systems in six areas that include (in order of importance) ease of use, routing, system appearance, speed of system, voice directions and navigation display screen. The Zephyr's Pioneer unit did particularly well in the those first three areas that are weighted the most. One feature of the system with which I became particularly infatuated was its ability to leave a trail of electronic breadcrumbs on the screen's map showing you where you've driven. And in case you're wondering, the same unit is also available in the 2007 MKZ.

[Source: J.D. Power and Associates]

Nav system in Zephyr rated best in the biz originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We're kicking ourselves because we didn't get a chance to play with the DashDaq onboard computer at SEMA last week where it won a Best New International Product Award. Actually, to call it an onboard computer is generalizing its capabilities a bit too much. The small handhelt unit plugs into your vehicle's OBD-II port and can be used for data acquisition, diagnostics, as an extra set of gauges and as a good old fashioned handheld computer. The secret to this little guy's high must-have quotient is the fact it runs on Linux and comes with tools to help you write custom software for it. So besides what it can do out of the box, a clever programmer can have it be a GPS sat nav unit, multimedia player, or even an actual onboard computer. The fact that its maker, Drew Technologies, is keeping the DashDaq open source gives it a huge advantage over other devices, most notably high-end sat nav systems, that come with similar features but can never be modified to do more.

Aside from the flexible software, the actual hardware is impressive too, particularly the 4-inch TFT LCD screen that displays 16.7 million colors (that's all of 'em) and features 480 x 272 resolution. Follow the jump for shots of how good the screen images look, as they are completely unaltered from what you would see on the actual unit. You can also check out this movie of the unit in action and DT's webpage where computer nerds who are smarter than us will appreciate all the things this little grey box can do. Drew Technologies is hoping to have the DashDaq on the market by early 2007 at an MSRP of $595, which, with a little help from a thriving open source programming community creating killer applications, could have the big boys in the satellite navigation and data acquisition markets asking for directions.

[Source: Drew Technologies]

Continue reading DashDaq throws open source in face of high-end sat navs

DashDaq throws open source in face of high-end sat navs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Nov 2006 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Garmin has scored a major coup by buddying up with Hyundai to sell its nüvi 360 personal navigation device at all of the automaker's 725 dealerships across the U.S. The nüvi 360 not only navigates, but also features hands-free Bluetooth calling and other travel specific features like a database of over 6 million points of interest, a currency converter and an MP3 player with picture viewer. The small pocket-sized device mounts on your vehicle's windshield, though it can be detached and used while traveling on foot, as well. At $857.00, however, the cost of the device is anything but diminutive.

This could be a very smart move by Hyundai as well, which knows that redesigning and engineering a dash to accept a nav system and Bluetooth compatibility wouldn't be cost effective for many of its models like the lower priced Accent and Elantra. The South Korean automaker doesn't actually offer a satellite navigation system on any of its vehicles, so this could also be a stopgap measure to satisfy customers interested in such technology while Hyundai works on rolling out a factory version for its vehicles in the North American market.

[Source: Garmin]

Hyundai offers Garmin sat navs through dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Oct 2006 18:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>garminnuvi 360Nuvi360sat navsatellite navigationSatelliteNavigationSatNavWed, 18 Oct 2006 18:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Redesign Our Business Cards Contest - Update 1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/18/redesign-our-business-cards-contest-update-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/18/redesign-our-business-cards-contest-update-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/18/redesign-our-business-cards-contest-update-1/#commentsFiled under:



After two days, we have received submissions from 24 readers for the Redesign Our Business Cards Contest, with many submitting multiple entries already. Some people are using the two Pioneer AVIC-D2 satellite navigation systems we've put up as prizes for motivation, but many of you have also told us that you're happy to use your talents to help out Autoblog, which we sincerely appreciate. If it were us, we'd be doing it for the sat nav, but we're shallow like that.

What really impressed us is how fast the submissions came rolling in after the contest was announced on Monday. Literally within a half hour the first submission was in, and though the author admitted it was a simple design, he told us he was just getting started and would submit more entries in the next few days. Some of you have clearly thought outside the box, which is what we said we were looking for (see comments on original contest post), while others have actually surprised us with some traditional designs that have knocked our socks off. We wish we could show you some, but it wouldn't be fair so we'll keep them all under wraps until the contest is over, then we'll reveal the best and worst submissions along with, of course, the winners.

Also, we want to reiterate that the Autoblog business card and the AutoblogGreen business card will be judged seperately. There's no benefit at all in designing a matching set for both sites, since there's no way you can win both Pioneer AVIC-D2 sat navs. We treat Autoblog and AutoblogGreen as two separate, stand-alone sites and their business cards should reflect that, so keep them separate. So far there's been more submissions for the Autoblog design, so you may have better chances to win if you put more energy into a submission for the AutoblogGreen design. Although there might be more glory in designing the winning submission for the Autoblog business card.

Thanks to everyone who has entered so far! We love watching the submissions roll in and can't wait to see some more.

CLICK HERE FOR THE CONTEST ANNOUNCEMENT WITH RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO ENTER.

Redesign Our Business Cards Contest - Update 1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Oct 2006 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AVIC-D2business cardBusinessCardcontestpioneersat navSatNavWed, 18 Oct 2006 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Directions no charge: Cadillac offering nav systems for free]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/08/directions-no-charge-cadillac-offering-nav-systems-for-free/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/08/directions-no-charge-cadillac-offering-nav-systems-for-free/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/08/directions-no-charge-cadillac-offering-nav-systems-for-free/#commentsFiled under: ,



In a gesture of unwavering generosity, Cadillac announced yesterday that select 2007 models would come equipped with free satellite navigation. The offer will end on January 2nd 2007 and is only available on "specially-equipped" models.

What directional joys await those of you willing to drop the coin on a new Caddy? It's pretty much the standard navigation fare, with a dash-mounted LCD displaying turn-by-turn directions, with the option of a sultry vixen barking orders at you if you make a wrong move (some don't need a sat-nav for that). Other standard features include an address finder, a business search and, for those of you willing to upgrade to XM, NavTraffic, that provides real-time traffic reporting.

The free navi will be only available on 2007 models and we haven't found out the meaning of "specially-equipped" yet, but we'll call our local dealer today.

[Source: Cadillac via GM Inside News]

Directions no charge: Cadillac offering nav systems for free originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Oct 2006 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillacnavinavtrafficsat navsatellite navigationSatelliteNavigationSatNavxmSun, 08 Oct 2006 08:03:00 EST<![CDATA[No iDrive for the MINI and there was much rejoicing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/30/no-idrive-for-the-mini-and-there-was-much-rejoicing/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/30/no-idrive-for-the-mini-and-there-was-much-rejoicing/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/30/no-idrive-for-the-mini-and-there-was-much-rejoicing/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mr. Paukert, our compatriot at Winding Road, was able to abduct a few BMW execs in Paris and beat them with stale baguettes until they finally put to rest rumors of an iDrive-like interface finding its way into the new MINI.

Since a touch screen setup was nixed due to design and placement issues, the joystick you see south of the shifter is there to control all facets of the new MINI's sat-nav. Furthermore, the crumb-encrusted execs made it clear that no aspect of iDrive's architecture will find its way into the iconic hatch, citing MINI owner's affection towards a (somewhat) simple, uncluttered motoring experience.

No iDrive for the MINI and there was much rejoicing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 Sep 2006 07:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwcooperidriveminisat navSatNavSat, 30 Sep 2006 07:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Delphi NAV200 comes in at $349]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/21/delphi-nav200-comes-in-at-349/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/21/delphi-nav200-comes-in-at-349/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/21/delphi-nav200-comes-in-at-349/#commentsFiled under: ,



Aftermarket navigation systems are not cheap, though neither are the nav units that come bundled in your car. Aftermarket units can start in the $500 range but easily skyrocket up to $2,000 depending on how many features you demand. Delphi's consumer electronics division has just announced a new hand held nav system called the NAV200 that packs most of those popular features in a small form factor at an easily digestible price of $349.

The NAV200 is about the size of a PDA (who uses those anymore?) and can be controlled via a stylus or your own grubby fingers via a 3.5" touchscreen. Unlike many aftermarket nav systems, you aren't forced to load maps into it via a CD through your computer. Rather, Delphi includes complete maps of the US and Canada from NAVTEQ on a 1.5gb SD card that slots right in. You can also insert an SD card with MP3 files, photos and videos and use the NAV200 as a portable media player, however the battery only lasts 3 hours when not plugged into the cigarette lighter. Still, it could replace an iPod for some.

Other features that the modern nav user demands are also present, like the option for real-time traffic info that the unit can use to reroute your path (available with an adapter antenna and subscription fee). Bluetooth, however, is one missing feature we feel the NAV200 is missing, as pumping cell phone calls through such devices is becoming quite popular, especially in states where you're not allowed to hold a cell phone while driving anymore. But the NAV200 makes a compelling case for itself at $349.

[Source: Delphi]

Delphi NAV200 comes in at $349 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Sep 2006 19:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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