Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Facebook buying nav/traffic app Waze for $1B?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/#commentsFiled under: ,

Waze

TechCrunch reports that Facebook is moving to purchase the navigation and traffic app Waze for a lofty sum. The buy would be the latest in a long line of high-dollar acquisitions by the social networking site, and both sides of the acquisition have reportedly entered into advanced due diligence after negotiations began six months ago. Early estimates put the payout somewhere between $800 million and $1 billion... if both sides can overcome a few stumbling blocks. The biggest of those is whether or not Waze will remain based in Israel or if it will relocate to the US.

While both companies are remaining silent about the potential purchase, such a move makes sense. Facebook is constantly refining its mobile experience, and the site boasts 751 million active monthly mobile users. That's a jump of 54 percent over last year, outpacing Facebook's desktop growth by nearly double, and the site would surely benefit by offering its mobile users navigation functionality.

Interestingly, this apparently isn't the first time Waze has found itself the object of a larger entity's lust - Apple reportedly showed interest in the company not so long ago.

Facebook buying nav/traffic app Waze for $1B? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appfacebooknavigationwazeMon, 13 May 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566008/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/20566008/article-detail.xml 20566008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/waze-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/waze-628.jpg <![CDATA[Why using Google Maps for driving directions is illegal in California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/why-using-google-maps-for-driving-directions-is-illegal-in-calif/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/why-using-google-maps-for-driving-directions-is-illegal-in-calif/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/why-using-google-maps-for-driving-directions-is-illegal-in-calif/#commentsFiled under: ,

Bearded driver uses phone

Back in January of 2012, Steven Spriggs was cited for using a cellphone while driving in California, violating the state's Vehicle Code Section 23123 that makes it illegal for someone to drive "while using a wireless telephone unless that telephone is specifically designed and configured to allow hands-free listening and talking, and is used in that manner while driving." In this case, though, while Spriggs did have the phone in his hands, he was using it to check directions on Google Maps, not make a phone a call or send a text.

Spriggs appealed the citation, but according to Digital Trends, Judge Kent Hamlin of the Fresno County Superior Court has ruled against him. Hamlin's eight-page decision asserted that the law prohibiting drivers from using their hands to operate their cellphones to make calls and send texts didn't mean they could manually operate their phones for some other purpose, like getting directions; Hamlin reasoned that the law's intent was to prevent all manual operation of the cellphone to curb distracted driving.

Hamlin felt this even though Sprigg argued that when the original law specified voice calls, it was felt necessary to append the law to add texting to its purview. Using that example, if the law didn't specify the other operations it covered, then it shouldn't apply to those other operations. Hamlin's decision countered that there was no legislative history that demonstrated the bill's original supporters didn't want texting covered by the law originally, and that since the purpose of the "plain language" of the law is to eliminate the distraction of manually using one's phone while driving, that any such use is automatically covered.

Why using Google Maps for driving directions is illegal in California originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple mapscalifornia lawdistracted drivingfresnogoogle mapsjudge kent w. hamlinlawlegalmap appmappingnavigationsteven spriggstexting while drivingMon, 08 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20533159/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/why-using-google-maps-for-driving-directions-is-illegal-in-calif/20533159/article-detail.xml 20533159 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/driver-using-phone_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/driver-using-phone.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes follows Chrysler, chooses Garmin for next-gen infotainment system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/mercedes-follows-chrysler-chooses-garmin-for-next-gen-infotainm/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/mercedes-follows-chrysler-chooses-garmin-for-next-gen-infotainm/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/mercedes-follows-chrysler-chooses-garmin-for-next-gen-infotainm/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chrysler Garmin Navigation

Mercedes-Benz has announced Garmin will provide fully integrated navigation for the automaker's future infotainment systems. Over the next four years, buyers will find the familiar and easy-to-use Garmin interface show up in the German manufacturer's new models.

Garmin says the systems will also include a small secondary display for upcoming turn information, and users will also be able to control the navigation system via either the vehicle's rotary control or voice commands. The system will also work with the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Driver Assistance System to provide location services for "challenging situations."

Mercedes-Benz is the second major automaker to adopt Garmin for navigation. Chrysler has successfully employed the tech as part of its UConnect system (seen in the photo above), offering up intuitive navigation with good graphics. In our experience, the Chrysler units are accurate and fairly quick, though we have noted some lag in city environments. You can check out the full press release about the upcoming Mercedes-Benz system below.

Continue reading Mercedes follows Chrysler, chooses Garmin for next-gen infotainment system

Mercedes follows Chrysler, chooses Garmin for next-gen infotainment system originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>garminmercedesnavigationTue, 02 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20526687/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/02/mercedes-follows-chrysler-chooses-garmin-for-next-gen-infotainm/20526687/article-detail.xml 20526687 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chrysler-garmin_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chrysler-garmin.jpg <![CDATA[Australian police urge motorists to stay away from Apple Maps [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/australian-police-urge-motorists-to-stay-away-from-apple-maps-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/australian-police-urge-motorists-to-stay-away-from-apple-maps-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/australian-police-urge-motorists-to-stay-away-from-apple-maps-w/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Apple Maps is the beautiful but flawed pile of poo that just keeps on steaming. Not long after it appeared in the company's latest operating system, people noticed that it had a habit of showing destinations in the wrong locations, like a museum located underwater, or refusing to show locations at all, like the town of Stratford-Upon-Avon and most of a few world metropolises. The CEO apologized once, was met with hilarious rejoinders, then apologized again and recommended other map solutions, and the guy in charge of Apple Maps was shown the door, which Apple was indeed able to find.

None of that has apparently helped drivers looking for the town of Mildura, in Victoria, Australia however. Apple Maps still places the hamlet in the middle of the Murray-Sunset National Park, about 44 miles southwest of its actual location. The displaced location map issue has reportedly left six drivers lost or stranded in the national park for up to 24 hours without food or water, in temperatures that can reach up to 115 degrees in the Outback with no phone reception. Six people have had to be rescued in the past two months, and now Mildura police have issued a statement calling the situation "a life threatening issue," urging caution when using Apple Maps.

Check out the Newsdesk video below for more details, and be very, very careful when you go in search of Mildura.

Continue reading Australian police urge motorists to stay away from Apple Maps [w/video]

Australian police urge motorists to stay away from Apple Maps [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple mapsaustraliaaustralian outbackgpsios 6ios6ipadiphonemilduramurray sunset national parknavigationvictoriavideoTue, 11 Dec 2012 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20399410/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/11/australian-police-urge-motorists-to-stay-away-from-apple-maps-w/20399410/article-detail.xml 20399410 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/mildura-victoria-apple-maps_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/mildura-victoria-apple-maps.jpg <![CDATA[These are the most traffic-congested cities in the western world]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/16/these-are-the-most-traffic-congested-cities-in-the-western-world/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/16/these-are-the-most-traffic-congested-cities-in-the-western-world/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/16/these-are-the-most-traffic-congested-cities-in-the-western-world/#commentsFiled under:

Europe TomTom

TomTom has released its congestion index for the second quarter of 2012, and Istanbul, Turkey took the dubious honor of being the most congested city in Europe. With a rating of 57 percent, the city suffers from more than double the average congestion of the rest of the continent. Warsaw, Poland came in second with a 47-percent rating, though morning peak traffic sees that number swell to 93 percent. Marseille, France, Palermo and Rome, Italy round out the top five.

But TomTom didn't just put an eye on Europe. The navigation company also turned its analysis on North America.

Not surprisingly, Los Angeles walked away with the top slot with a rating of 34 percent. Vancouver, Canada came in at just one percent behind LA, while San Francisco took the bronze. Montreal and Toronto filled out the North American top five this go around. You can head over to the TomTom site for a closer look at the breakdown as well as the company's methodology.

These are the most traffic-congested cities in the western world originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>congestionnavigationtomtomtomtom congestion indextrafficTue, 16 Oct 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20349595/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/16/these-are-the-most-traffic-congested-cities-in-the-western-world/20349595/article-detail.xml 20349595 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/europe-tomtom_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/europe-tomtom.jpg <![CDATA[iPhone 5 gets native turn-by-turn navigation, car connectivity questions remain]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/iphone-5-gets-native-turn-by-turn-navigation-car-connectivity-q/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/iphone-5-gets-native-turn-by-turn-navigation-car-connectivity-q/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/iphone-5-gets-native-turn-by-turn-navigation-car-connectivity-q/#commentsFiled under: ,



The big news yesterday in the tech world (and most of the rest of the world) was the debut of the iPhone 5. If you have not yet been left with a feeling of inferiority due to your current device, this should put you over the top. The new iPhone will come with the Apple Maps app. Maps is Apple's rebuttal to the hugely popular Google Maps, and comes with a host of functionality.

One of the key features of the app is turn-by-turn navigation with voice prompts from Siri. Just like an in-car navigation system, as you approach a turn, a 3D view appears to better show the user where to turn. This may ruffle a few feathers at the wireless service providers, as many already offer paid-subscription navigation apps, such as AT&T Navigator, VZ Navigator and Sprint Navigation. According to Apple, you can use Siri to search for a destination and engage the navigation system, all by voice command.

Maps also offers real-time traffic data much like an advanced in-car GPS system. This will give users the option to select alternate routes as a way to bypass heavy traffic. The app also has a flyover feature that lets a user view a 3D replication of the map, with major landmarks presented in high resolution.

This is all well and good, but Apple also announced the new Lightning connector, which replaces the 30-pin connector to which we have become accustomed, and is more of a mixed bag in terms of in-car connectivity.

The new connector still works with USB ports, so any automaker that employs such an outlet in its vehicles will have no issue. Several automakers, however, have connection ports specifically built for the 30-pin connector. Apple will offer an adaptor for that setup, but that may not be enough.

The new 8-pin connector is fully digital, and is not able to transmit analog signals. Kia. Hyundai and older BMW models feature a connector that sends both USB and eighth-inch analog signals through the 30-pin connector. It appears Apple's adaptor will not work with the connectors provided by these vehicles.

The new app will be available with iOS 6, which is standard on the new iPhone 5. It will also be made available to compatible devices on Sept 19.

iPhone 5 gets native turn-by-turn navigation, car connectivity questions remain originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple mapsapple maps appgoogle mapsgoogle maps appiphoneiphone 5iphone5navigationsiriThu, 13 Sep 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20322634/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/13/iphone-5-gets-native-turn-by-turn-navigation-car-connectivity-q/20322634/article-detail.xml 20322634 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/apple-iphone-5-maps-628-1347551143_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/apple-iphone-5-maps-628-1347551143.jpg <![CDATA[AU survey results suggests men rely on GPS more than women]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/au-survey-results-suggests-men-rely-on-gps-more-than-women/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/au-survey-results-suggests-men-rely-on-gps-more-than-women/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/au-survey-results-suggests-men-rely-on-gps-more-than-women/#commentsFiled under: ,



Remember the days before GPS? When it was just you, the open road, and a Rand-McNally mapbook tucked beneath the seat? We certainly do, but with the advent of GPS and smartphones, using electronic devices for guidance has become second nature. And it has turned one of the great stereotypes of the sexes sideways.

According to a study conducted by the Australian Association for Motor Insurers, men use GPS navigation more than women. The AAMI claims that 64 percent of men use nav systems while only 50 percent of women rely on them.

Reuben Aitchison, AAMI Corporate Affairs Manager, pondered the old stereotype of men never asking for directions, "It was a point of honour, sometimes known as stubbornness."

The poll also asked what voices from which people would be most and least likely to take directions. The most popular voiced included Morgan Freeman, Stewie Griffin, and Christopher Walken. The least favorite? Batman, Ozzy Osborne and your significant other.

A quick look over to the Garmin site reveals that none of those voices are available, but you can get Erine & Bert, Wallace & Gromit, Yoda, and Darth Vader.

The significant other? That's a no-cost option.

Continue reading AU survey results suggests men rely on GPS more than women

AU survey results suggests men rely on GPS more than women originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jul 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austrailiadirectionsgpsmapsnavnavigationTue, 31 Jul 2012 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20287853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/31/au-survey-results-suggests-men-rely-on-gps-more-than-women/20287853/article-detail.xml 20287853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/buick-nav-system-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/buick-nav-system-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE images released, upcoming nav teased]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le-images-released-upcoming-nav-teased/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le-images-released-upcoming-nav-teased/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le-images-released-upcoming-nav-teased/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



You would be forgiven for having forgotten about the new 1LE package for the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro SS. Announced back in March, this performance upgrade package was quickly overshadowed by the arrival in dealerships of the 580-horsepower Camaro ZL1. While the Camaro lineup's big dog may be all that anyone's been talking about, not everyone can afford to step up to the Shelby-slayer. So, just like Ford found room for the Boss 302 between the Mustang GT and GT500, so too has Chevy made space for the 1LE between the SS and ZL1.

Chevy has finally released official images of the 2013 Camaro SS with the 1LE package, and the good news is that this isn't your average SS. A matte black hood, front splitter and rear spoiler are the most obvious tells that you're not looking at a normal Camaro, though the car's black-finished 10-spoke wheels come straight from the ZL1. The 1LE borrows other things from the ZL1, including some suspension hardware, much of its fuel system, its flat-bottom steering wheel and a short-throw shifter, the latter of which is mated to a 1LE-exclusive Tremec TR6060-MM6 six-speed manual transmission designed for the particular abuses of road racing.

The car also receives larger front and rear stabilizer bars than the standard SS, higher-capacity rear-axle half shafts, mono tube rear dampers and a strut tower brace. Nope, there are no engine upgrades, so you'll have to make do with the same 426-hp 6.2L LS3 V8 in the SS. That makes the 1LE less powerful (and significantly heavier) than the 444-hp Boss 302 against which it will inevitably be compared, but it's also less expensive. Final pricing isn't available, but Chevy says it will land under $40 large (the Boss 302 starts at $42,200).

Also of note is the new seven-inch touchscreen that will be standard equipment atop the center stack of all 2013 Camaros. The new screen will control the car's entire suite of audio options, including MyLink hookups with apps like Pandora and Stitcher. Later in the year, buyers will also be able to pair the screen with the first available GPS navigation system for the Camaro.

Continue reading 2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE images released, upcoming nav teased

2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE images released, upcoming nav teased originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1le2013 chevrolet camaro ss 1lecamarochevroletnavigationTue, 17 Jul 2012 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20280076/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/17/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le-images-released-upcoming-nav-teased/20280076/article-detail.xml 20280076 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le-opt.jpg <![CDATA[In-car navigation systems expected to quadruple by 2019]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/in-car-navigation-systems-expected-to-quadruple-by-2019/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/in-car-navigation-systems-expected-to-quadruple-by-2019/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/in-car-navigation-systems-expected-to-quadruple-by-2019/#commentsFiled under:

bmw nav

Navigation systems have been coming down in price lately, making in-car directions more accessible to the masses. At the same time massive tech companies like Apple and Microsoft have gotten into the game as well, and as TheDetroitBureau.com reports, a new study shows that these forces are converging to quadruple the systems by 2019.

That's another 13 million nav systems per year around the world, or 56 million units by 2019. The biggest gains will likely take place in China, with sales going from 355,000 to 11.8 million in a decade.

The study unsurprisingly predicts that navigation systems will also change considerably during that time, going from traditional DVD-based technology to inexpensive in-car systems and smart phone-based systems like the upcoming Apple tech that will be found on future vehicles from General Motors, BMW, Toyota, Audi and many other OEMs.

Cheaper tech and increased competition tend to go hand-in-hand, but that recipe could be toxic for traditional navigation providers like TomTom and Garmin. Such companies will need to rely on ingenuity and smaller margins to continue to thrive in the more competitive market.

In-car navigation systems expected to quadruple by 2019 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegarmingooglegpsnavinavigationnavigation systemtomtomFri, 13 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20276383/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/13/in-car-navigation-systems-expected-to-quadruple-by-2019/20276383/article-detail.xml 20276383 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/bmw-idrive-nav_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/bmw-idrive-nav.jpg <![CDATA[Navsop working on coin-sized GPS rival that navigates using wifi and TV signals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/07/navsop-working-on-coin-sized-gps-rival-that-navigates-using-wifi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/07/navsop-working-on-coin-sized-gps-rival-that-navigates-using-wifi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/07/navsop-working-on-coin-sized-gps-rival-that-navigates-using-wifi/#commentsFiled under:

Cell Tower, photo by Gary Lerude

A British company is working on a new navigation system that doesn't rely on GPS satellites to track your location. BAE has created Navsop, a device that picks up errant cell phone, radio and television signals to deduce your coordinates, which means it can be used in locations where traditional GPS can't. For example, TV signals are substantially more powerful in buildings and below ground than GPS, which means Navsop could eventually help locate individuals in collapsed buildings or mines. It could also be instrumental in locating stolen vehicles stashed in underground parking garages.

BAE claims that while Navsop is still in the early stages of development, it will eventually fit into a gadget about the size of a standard coin. At present, however, Navsop resides in a massive box that must be lugged around in a car and attached to a whip antenna. Not exactly smartphone compatible.

Navsop isn't entirely independent from GPS, however. The system must first get its bearings from the satellites in the sky before turning to radio signals.

Navsop working on coin-sized GPS rival that navigates using wifi and TV signals originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Jul 2012 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baecell phonegpsnavigationnavsopradiosignalstelevisiontvSat, 07 Jul 2012 17:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20272028/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/07/navsop-working-on-coin-sized-gps-rival-that-navigates-using-wifi/20272028/article-detail.xml 20272028 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/cell-towergarylerude_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/cell-towergarylerude.jpg <![CDATA[Ford tempers expectations of improvement in J.D. Power quality survey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Technology can be a fickle thing for automotive companies. Done right, tech can help sell cars. Done badly, and tech can sink a whole company's image.

Ford is battling just that problem. Its Sync tech has certainly contributed to healthy sales recently, but customers started to complain with the buggy advent of the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch systems.

An update for the system back in March promised to fix the annoying restarts, the slow responses and the underwhelming voice control. The user interface also got cleaner, easier to read menus and iPad compatibility was improved.

Unfortunately, Ford is now saying the improvements probably came too late to be reflected in the J.D. Power quality survey to be announced today.

"We'll be about the same or slightly better," Bennie Fowler, Ford's group vice president of global quality, told Automotive News Tuesday. "The dramatic improvement we're expecting will come in the third quarter..."

Ford fell from fifth place to 23rd place in last year's new-car quality survey. At least part of the reason, if not most, was due to customer dissatisfaction with the two Touch systems. That ranked Ford and Lincoln below the industry average for the number of problems per new vehicle.

Consumer Reports told Automotive News that since the Touch upgrades, complaints about Ford products are down. The magazine's auto-test chief David Champion says "Ford's basic quality remains good."

Ford tempers expectations of improvement in J.D. Power quality survey originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordinitial quality studyinitial quality surveyj.d. powerlincolnmyford touchmylincoln touchmytouchnavigationqualityquality surveysyncWed, 20 Jun 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20262522/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/20262522/article-detail.xml 20262522 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628.jpg <![CDATA[Apple gives Google Maps the boot, adds free turn-by-turn navigation to iPhone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/12/apple-gives-google-maps-the-boot-adds-free-turn-by-turn-navigat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/12/apple-gives-google-maps-the-boot-adds-free-turn-by-turn-navigat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/12/apple-gives-google-maps-the-boot-adds-free-turn-by-turn-navigat/#commentsFiled under:

Apple Maps shown on iPad 2The big news in the tech world right now is the World Wide Developer's Conference which Apple just concluded. That's where the House that Jobs Built unveiled its latest operating systems for both computers and mobile devices, its latest laptop computer design and more. But what does this all have to do with cars, you ask? Plenty.

First off, Apple used the high-profile press conference extravaganza to announce the integration of its Siri voice service into cars, starting with nine automakers (among them the massive General Motors group) that will be putting a dedicated button on their steering wheels to allow drivers to activate the service on their iPhones and iPads without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road. But that's not all that's of relevance to motorists from WWDC 2012.

Apple has also announced the launch of its own Maps application, replacing the Google Maps utility it had begrudgingly integrated into its devices until now. Resulting from Apple's acquisition of several erstwhile independent digital cartography operations, Maps aims to improve on the popular Google service with such features as spoken turn-by-turn directions with real-time ETA, smooth-scrolling 3D imaging, aerial flyover views of city centers and important landmarks, Siri integration and real-time traffic information.

The latter is reportedly crowdsourced anonymously from other users, leaving us with some questions regarding privacy issues. But we'll leave that to the guys with the tin-foil hats while we blissfully revel in Big Brother's latest offering to the masses. Follow the links below to see what Apple has in store in greater detail.

Apple gives Google Maps the boot, adds free turn-by-turn navigation to iPhone originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple mapscrowdsourcecrowdsourcingiosipadiphonemapsnavigationsat navsat-navsatellite navigationworld wide developers conferencewwdcwwdc12Tue, 12 Jun 2012 10:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20256566/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/12/apple-gives-google-maps-the-boot-adds-free-turn-by-turn-navigat/20256566/article-detail.xml 20256566 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ios-maps_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ios-maps.jpg <![CDATA[UK gov't backs GPS system designed for elderly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/28/uk-govt-backs-gps-system-designed-for-elderly/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/28/uk-govt-backs-gps-system-designed-for-elderly/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/28/uk-govt-backs-gps-system-designed-for-elderly/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GPS nav

Q: What do you call a navigation system designed specifically for the elderly?
A: A map.

In all seriousness, GPS navigation technology designed to help the aged drive more safely could significantly reduce the number of accidents involving geriatric drivers. Old people already attempt to compensate for reduced faculties by changing driving patterns, not driving at night and taking the simplest routes rather than the fastest. It only makes sense to deploy technology to help them determine "easier" ways to a destination.

At least that's the idea behind a $20 million project being developed at Newcastle University in the U.K. According to The Sun, the research is being funded by the British government, with the end result being a system that would give easy-to-understand directions without suggesting turns across traffic or travel on freeways.

UK gov't backs GPS system designed for elderly originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elderly driversgpsnavigationnavigation systemSat, 28 Apr 2012 14:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20226089/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/28/uk-govt-backs-gps-system-designed-for-elderly/20226089/article-detail.xml 20226089 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/buick-nav-system-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/buick-nav-system-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Google Maps regains ability to estimate your trip duration with traffic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/google-maps-regains-ability-to-estimate-your-trip-duration-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/google-maps-regains-ability-to-estimate-your-trip-duration-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/google-maps-regains-ability-to-estimate-your-trip-duration-with/#commentsFiled under: ,

Google Maps screenshots

Google Maps has reinstated the feature letting you know how long a trip will take in current traffic. According to Autoblog's sister site, Engadget, the previous algorithm didn't pass muster, so the updated calculations uses both historical and current traffic conditions to arrive at an estimated time of arrival. It appears on the journeys for which information is available beneath the no-traffic estimate.

If the map can't find information on your chosen roads, you can assist The Goog and your fellow travelers by turning on My Location if you have a Google Maps for Android. Your phone - and a bunch of others - will update home base as to your velocities and help fill in those traffic blanks.

Google Maps regains ability to estimate your trip duration with traffic originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcartographygooglegoogle mapgoogle mapsgpsmappingmapsmy locationnavigationTue, 03 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20205210/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/03/google-maps-regains-ability-to-estimate-your-trip-duration-with/20205210/article-detail.xml 20205210 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/googlemapstime_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/googlemapstime.jpg <![CDATA[Garmin's first factory-installed nav units will be offered by Suzuki]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/garmins-first-factory-installed-nav-units-will-be-offered-by-su/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/garmins-first-factory-installed-nav-units-will-be-offered-by-su/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/garmins-first-factory-installed-nav-units-will-be-offered-by-su/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Garmin, a company known largely for its aftermarket navigation systems, will officially debut its first factory-installed in-car infotainment system at this week's New York Auto Show. In the past, Garmin has partnered with some automakers to offer pop-up navi systems as an affordable solution to buyers who want the functionality in their vehicles. This new system, which will be available in most 2013 model year Suzukis, now offers a full suite of infotainment tech.

The Garmin interface uses a 6.1-inch touch-screen display that fully incorporates all audio functions, as well as Bluetooth, backup camera support and, of course, navigation. There's even a way to operate Pandora, though the app will run via a connected smartphone. The system also has full voice control functionality for all of its applications.

Additionally, this new infotainment system can provide real-time information such as traffic, weather, dynamic parking and fuel prices via the Android-based Garmin Smartphone Link app. The company says that Smartphone Link works off of the customer's existing data plan, so users don't have to shell out any extra money for additional data.

We'll be checking out the new Garmin infotainment system this week at the New York Auto Show, so stay tuned for more impressions. For the full details, scroll down to read Garmin's official press release.

Continue reading Garmin's first factory-installed nav units will be offered by Suzuki

Garmin's first factory-installed nav units will be offered by Suzuki originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 07:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>garminnavigationnew yorknew york 2012new york auto showsuzukiMon, 02 Apr 2012 07:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20206051/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/02/garmins-first-factory-installed-nav-units-will-be-offered-by-su/20206051/article-detail.xml 20206051 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-garmin-suzuki628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-garmin-suzuki628opt.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA distracted driver guidelines would render navigation systems useless]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/nhtsa-distracted-driver-guidelines-would-render-navigation-syste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/nhtsa-distracted-driver-guidelines-would-render-navigation-syste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/nhtsa-distracted-driver-guidelines-would-render-navigation-syste/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ray Lahood speaking at Distracted Driving Summit

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has produced a minutely detailed document addressing and attempting to assess driver distractions. According to its numbers, "17 percent (an estimated 899,000) of all police-reported crashes reportedly involved some type of driver distraction in 2010." Out of that number, three percent, or 26,000 accidents, were caused by distraction from "a device/control integral to the vehicle," such as a navigation or infotainment system.

The document provides voluminous guidance to reduce or eliminate possibilities for distracting the driver, and at first glance, their adoption would seem to make in-car navigation systems useless. One of the guidelines suggests that "Systems providing non-safety-related dynamic (i.e. moving spatially) visual information should be capable of a means by which that information is not provided to the driver." Another states that "static or quasi-static maps" are fine - a quasi-static map being one that's updated every few seconds, but "Dynamic, continuously-moving maps are not recommended."

These are only guidelines and they're full of loose phrasing, but the question is what kind of visually useful navigation system could be built to satisfy them. They appear to allow for audio-only navigation while driving, but making maps either inaccessible to the driver or only refreshing them every few seconds would make such systems useless unless a driver can get by with knowing his position once every four seconds. Again, this is only a document that attempts to pair suggestions to evidence derived from hard data, but as far as a practical solution to driver distraction, this might not be the road map drivers or automakers are looking for.

NHTSA distracted driver guidelines would render navigation systems useless originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>distracted drivingdriver distractiongpsnational highway traffic safety administrationnav systemnavigationnavigation systemnhtsaMon, 26 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20199397/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/26/nhtsa-distracted-driver-guidelines-would-render-navigation-syste/20199397/article-detail.xml 20199397 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ray-lahood-distracted-driving-summit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ray-lahood-distracted-driving-summit.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 nav system uses altitude to optimize hybrid efficiency]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2012-bmw-activehybrid-3-nav-system-uses-altitude-to-optimize-hyb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2012-bmw-activehybrid-3-nav-system-uses-altitude-to-optimize-hyb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2012-bmw-activehybrid-3-nav-system-uses-altitude-to-optimize-hyb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 3

Somewhat lost in the fanfare of BMW introducing a hybrid version of its best-selling 3 Series at the Detroit Auto Show was a brief mention of its new navigation technology. The 2012 ActiveHybrid 3 will be the first hybrid to use its nav system to help predict the best time to use and recharge its battery. This will go well beyond currently available navigation technology that plots economical travel routes based on traffic and speed limits, also incorporating altitude, final destination and other real-time data to wring the most out of those electrons.

For example, suppose there's a big hill on your route. Since the 3 Series hybrid "knows" you will be descending, and thus afforded a good opportunity for recharging, it can drain more of the battery on the way up. BMW says it is still working on the system, but it will be included as a standard feature on the ActiveHybrid 3, and will eventually spread to the ActiveHybrid 5 and other hybrid models. While we don't have much in the way of details, the opportunity here seems pretty vast, effectively allowing the car to hypermile for you.

Continue reading 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 nav system uses altitude to optimize hybrid efficiency

2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 nav system uses altitude to optimize hybrid efficiency originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw activehybrid 33 seriesactivehybrid 3altitudebmwdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto shownav systemnavigationnavigation systemMon, 09 Jan 2012 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144369/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/2012-bmw-activehybrid-3-nav-system-uses-altitude-to-optimize-hyb/20144369/article-detail.xml 20144369 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2012-bmw-acitvehybrid-3-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2012-bmw-acitvehybrid-3-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Surprise! J.D. Power reports consumers frustrated with navigation systems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/automakers-suck-at-ui/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/automakers-suck-at-ui/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/automakers-suck-at-ui/#commentsFiled under: ,



For those of us testing dozens of in-car navigation and infotainment systems each year, J.D. Power's 2011 U.S. Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study comes as no surprise.

According to owners surveyed in the study, simplicity and ease-of-use are lacking in the majority of systems on the market, with "Address/street/city not found" topping the list, followed by difficulty inputting a destination, poor routing, ineffectual voice controls, a lack of street names and missing points of interest. Not to mention the most obvious issue: the inability to find the proper function in the menu system.

Additionally, with a growing number of automakers combining climate controls into the touchscreen, these systems are adding another layer of complexity with few tangible benefits.

Interestingly though, the Garmin-supplied system fitted to the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 - placing first and third, respectively, in consumer satisfaction - do combine many of the vehicle's climate control functions in a separate menu on the screen. So the issue isn't about incorporation, it's about execution.

Lining the bottom of the pack were a few Mercedes-Benz models (no surprise considering how long in the tooth COMAND is), the Jaguar XJ, Volvo XC90, Lincoln MKX and Toyota RAV4. And while the Clarion-equipped system (in the process of being phased out) in the Ford Flex, Fusion and Lincoln MKS all made it into the top 10, the TeleNav versions of the Ford Explorer and Edge - yes, the MyFord Touch equipped models - landed near the bottom. However, many of those issues should be rectified with the 2013 update, which includes faster response, better voice recognition and a mild UI overhaul. Hit the jump for the details and the complete rankings list.

Continue reading Surprise! J.D. Power reports consumers frustrated with navigation systems

Surprise! J.D. Power reports consumers frustrated with navigation systems originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpsinfotainmentj.d. powerjd powernavigationsat navsatellite navigationtechnologyTue, 22 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20112672/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/22/automakers-suck-at-ui/20112672/article-detail.xml 20112672 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/jaguar-xj48-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/jaguar-xj48-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bert and Ernie lend voices to TomTom, will guide you to Sesame Street]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/bert-and-ernie-lend-voices-to-tomtom-will-guide-you-to-sesame-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/bert-and-ernie-lend-voices-to-tomtom-will-guide-you-to-sesame-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/bert-and-ernie-lend-voices-to-tomtom-will-guide-you-to-sesame-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bert and Ernie of Sesame Street

Sesame Street is teaming up with TomTom to provide family-friendly navigation narration courtesy of some of our favorite muppets. Bert, Ernie and one very special rubber duckie have been so kind as to lend their vocal talents to TomTom navigation devices. The trio are in good company. Darth Vader and Top Gear star Jeremy Clarkson have both stepped into the recording booth to give TomTom customers a little entertainment over a long drive. If you like the idea of Sesame Street's Bert and Ernie leading the way, you can head over to the TomTom site to purchase the voice pack for $12.95.

That may seem a little steep to the penny-pinchers of the world, but listening to our childhood television friends may do much to diffuse road rage the next time we're stuck in traffic. Don't believe us? Follow the jump to check out a quick video of Bert and Ernie in the recording studio. We dare you not to smile.

Continue reading Bert and Ernie lend voices to TomTom, will guide you to Sesame Street

Bert and Ernie lend voices to TomTom, will guide you to Sesame Street originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bert and erniebert and ernie navigationbert and ernie tom tomgpsnavigationnavigation voicesesame streettom tomtom-tomtomtomvoice packThu, 17 Nov 2011 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20106233/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/bert-and-ernie-lend-voices-to-tomtom-will-guide-you-to-sesame-s/20106233/article-detail.xml 20106233 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/bert-and-ernie-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/bert-and-ernie-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeremy Clarkson voicepack coming to TomTom navigation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/jeremy-clarkson-voicepack-coming-to-tomtom-navigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/jeremy-clarkson-voicepack-coming-to-tomtom-navigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/jeremy-clarkson-voicepack-coming-to-tomtom-navigation/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jeremy ClarksonWay back when, animated characters were voiced by anonymous folks with great pipes. These days, you need A-list celebs to sell pixelated fish and other playthings. The disembodied and slightly stilted voices of navigation systems appear to be going the same way, and Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson is the latest talent to contribute his voice to giving directions - ironic, considering he's made his disdain for GPS clear in the past.

According to the UK's Daily Mail, TomTom will unveil a device next month in which the famously ornery BBC star will advise you to execute handbrake turn - going all, well, Clarkson, when you miss your offramp. If he ever gets to be too much, apparently the unit will allow you to get directions from The Stig, which we expect will sound like not getting any voice directions at all.

Jeremy Clarkson voicepack coming to TomTom navigation originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpsjeremy clarksonnavnavigationnavigation systemsat-navsatellite navigationstigthe stigtom-tomtomtomvoicepackTue, 06 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20035311/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/06/jeremy-clarkson-voicepack-coming-to-tomtom-navigation/20035311/article-detail.xml 20035311 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/jeremy-clarkson-headshot-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/jeremy-clarkson-headshot-250.jpg -1 2