The study, funded by GPS-maker Navteq, evaluated three groups of drivers in Dusseldorf and Munich: those without a navigation system; drivers with a navigation system; and drivers with a navigation system that included traffic. None had used GPS devices previously.

The results show drivers using navigation devices drove shorter distances and spent less time driving. Overall fuel consumption dropped from 2.2 gallons / 62 miles to 1.93 gallons. The study found a nearly 1553 mile drop in distance driven per year per driver, and an average of $541 in annual savings on fuel.

The findings also revealed a learning curve with the use of sat navs: greater decreases in trip times and distances were seen in the latter half of the study and the largest reductions were seen with drivers using sat navs with traffic built-in during peak travel times (7-9a, and 4-7pm). Greater reductions were seen during non-routine trips.

The study results reflect more than 2,100 individual trips, more than 12,400 miles and almost 500 hours on the road. It was funded by digital mapping firm Navteq (owned by Nokia). Full press release below.

Study shows drivers could save over euro 400 in fuel costs per year

Chicago,IL— NAVTEQ, the leading global provider of digital map, traffic and location data for in-vehicle, portable, wireless and enterprise solutions, has revealed the results of a proprietary research study designed to assess the consumer impact of everyday use of navigation devices. Previous studies in this field focused more on "getting lost" scenarios versus the benefits to drivers of navigation system use during the course of their normal driving habits.

In a three pronged study which evaluated drivers without a navigation system, drivers with a navigation system, and drivers with a navigation system that included traffic, the results revealed that the drivers using navigation devices 1) drove shorter distances and 2) spent less time driving. Conducted in two metropolitan areas of Germany - Dusseldorf and Munich - the study also showed that drivers with navigation devices had a 12% increase in fuel efficiency, as measured by liters of fuel consumed per 100 kms. Fuel consumption among those drivers using navigation fell from 8.3 to 7.3 l/100kms. When the study results are annualized, they equate to a nearly 2500 kilometer drop in distance driven per year per driver, and an average of euro 416 in savings on fuel annually per driver.

The participants, who had not previously owned a navigation device, had their vehicles outfitted with a logging device which was used to track the route they drove and their driving speed. The study results reflect more than 2,100 individual trips, more than 20,000 kilometers and almost 500 hours on the road.

The study was conducted by NuStats, a social science research firm that over the past 25 years has established itself as a leader in population surveys and qualitative research pertaining to transportation in general, and personal mobility and transit use in particular.

The findings also revealed additional areas of learning:

Reductions in trip times and distance driven increased over time: There was a marked "learning curve" with the use of navigation devices; greater decreases in trip times and distance driven were seen in the latter half of the study.

· The addition of traffic information further reduced trip times and distance driven: The largest reductions were seen with participants using a navigation device with traffic during peak travel times (7:00 - 8:59 AM; 4:00 - 6:59 PM).

· Greater reductions were seen during non-routine trips: When traveling a route other than what was customarily traveled, the reductions in trip times and lengths were also higher.

"With the robust methodology behind this study, we have confidence that these results are representative of a trend that globally has often been implied, but not previously proven in the realm of everyday use. Consumers can enjoy the advantages of navigation not only in relation to a more positive driving experience, but also in terms of the positive impact it can have on their wallets," says Judson Green, president and chief executive officer, NAVTEQ.

About NAVTEQ
NAVTEQ is the leading global provider of digital map, traffic and location data that enables navigation and location-based platforms around the world. NAVTEQ supplies comprehensive digital map information to power automotive navigation systems, portable and wireless devices, Internet-based mapping applications and government and business solutions. The Chicago-based company was founded in 1985 and has approximately 4,000 employees located in 196 offices and in 36 countries.

Photo Credit: Team Polizei

Our friends at Kicking Tires put the XROADS G-Map iPhone App through the same tests they apply to regular GPS systems and found it to be a capable competitor to the larger, more expensive alternatives.

On the plus side, the App is easy-to-use with good routing and accurate placement. On the negative side, it doesn't have voice turn-by-turn and the maps don't include as many detailed street-level names. Overall, they found the system to work well and, considering it's just $19.99 for the XROADS G-Map App, it's a great value if you've already dropped a few hundred dollars on an iPhone.

[Kicking Tires]

The new system would analyze past driving patterns, previous destinations, time of day and other variable and suggest a list of destinations you might be en-route to. It's not a terrible idea, but if you don't know where you're going or how to get there by the time the car has learned where you might be going, there's something wrong. Undoubtedly this technology will be paired with real time traffic, accident and weather notifications to make getting where you're going more reliably quick, but the notion of learning cars freaks us out. [4WheelsNews]

Since this new system has only just been announced, we obviously hadn't had a chance to put it through the paces yet, but by-jove it certainly does look pretty. The new MMI takes all that was integrated in the original system — audio, digital television, navigation, and points of interest — and makes it actually easy to use and pretty to look at. New are very cool 3D graphics in the nav systems for notable buildings and perhaps even cooler, reveals terrain elevations when viewed in perspective view.

Other upgrades include a bigger hard drive for all your favorite media, and the ability to playback DVDs, as well as MP3, AAC and WMA files on CDs and SD cards. It's all very fancy and you can read all the details below. We just want the cars the system comes in, that would be enough to make us happy, MMI or not.

The new MMI generation from Audi: top-level multimedia and communication

* Introducing a new generation of the market’s best system
* Even higher performance and easier operation
* First appearance in the Audi A8 luxury sedan

Audi is increasing its lead in infotainment technology even further. A new generation of the MMI, the supreme solution for multimedia, communication and operation, has been announced. With a high-capacity hard disk, a DVD drive and fast processors, it is much more versatile and its performance is higher than ever before. The new MMI’s first appearance will be in the A8 luxury sedan, but before long it will also be available for two other model lines.

In 2002, when the Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface) was launched, journalists and the general public were unanimous: the new Audi concept was the best on the market. With its control knob on the center tunnel and large function keys to select the main operating areas, it was effortless to control, with self-evident logic that was repeated on the MMI display. Audio, TV, information, telephone and navigation – never before had the driver been able to control all these areas so intuitively.

MMI set new standards from the very start, and proved to be the yardstick the competitors had to equal. Its status was confirmed by many wins in comparative tests. The system was also adopted for the A6 and Q7 model lines, and for the new A4. In this area of technology, the brand with the four-ring emblem pioneered progress from the front.

Audi has been intensively developing every aspect of its MMI system. The full version, MMI navigation plus, is now a state-of-the-art high-end system. The basic operating principle has been retained, but the innovative joystick makes it even more convenient. This joystick is located on the central knob and can be moved in eight directions – with high precision and the sense of quality that the Audi driver expects.

Apart from the control terminal, the monitor screen is the second important interface between the system and its users. For the new MMI, Audi has provided a large TFT display measuring seven inches from corner to corner. It is located in an ergonomically favorable position high up on the center console. With the very high resolution of 800 x 480 pixels and LED backlighting, this monitor supplies an exceptionally sharp image with plenty of contrast. Even in poor light conditions, the colors are intense against the black background.

As before, there are elegant crossfades between the individual screen displays, an effect that makes the overall impression created by the graphics even more fascinating. If the driver alters the automatic air conditioning settings, the new ones appear in a small screen panel for several seconds. This pop-up window doesn’t occupy very much space, so that the MMI user can still see the main screen content at any time.

3D map displays

On the big screen, the stage is set for another of the new MMI system’s attractive innovations: the way that maps are presented when the navigation system is in use. The driver can choose between the conventional two-dimensional view and the new 3D images. These feature a birds-eye perspective of the map area, with plenty of carefully presented detail. As in an atlas, the various heights above sea level are shown in different colors, and the most important buildings in large cities appear in three dimensions.

Audi has extended many of the navigation system’s functions. For instance, additional detail maps are faded up at crossroads, with small extra arrows indicating the correct lane to follow. Whenever it seems sensible, the navigation system offers the driver a choice of three routes, including the one that’s likely to keep fuel consumption to a minimum.

If the driver uses voice input to load a destination into the navigation system, this can now be done without spelling out the individual letters. The new MMI understands complete words in a number of national languages. The same applies to the new high-performance telephone directory, which can store up to 5,000 entries each with five numbers for each user.

The technology used here is called “synthetic language”. In a studio, pairs of individual sounds – these are called “diphones” – are recorded and saved to part of the MMI’s memory as data sets. High-speed software identifies them in the driver’s commands, combines them and compares the complete words with the term in the list, for instance “August Horch Strasse Ingolstadt”. The same synthetic language principle is used in reverse for the audible guidance instructions, which sound smooth and natural. The driver can choose between detailed or compact audible guidance modes.

Music and entertainment: the DVD drive

In the entertainment area too, the latest Audi MMI sets new standards. It has an integral drive for video DVDs; the new joystick function on the control knob is especially practical for this. When played back with the optional sound systems, DVD soundtracks can be heard in Dolby Digital 5.1 multi-channel sound and other frequently used formats. For safety reasons, the picture is only displayed to the driver when the car is standing still. The system also plays music from CDs and SD cards, including those coded MP3, AAC and WMA.

Additional technical modules have made the MMI even more attractive. The optional Audi Music Interface makes a perfect connection with an mp3 player, for instance the customer’s iPod. The complete menu structures and contents appear on the MMI display, and control is at the MMI terminal or the multifunctional steering wheel. A universal socket in the glove box and an adapter can be used to connect various players with a USB interface, and analog audio and video equipment.

Another audio highlight is the option of DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) reception. Digital radio signals are far superior to the analog standard in quality. Audi always uses a DAB double tuner in the MMI. This concept has the advantage that the DAB reception frequency can be changed without any interruption. One tuner receives the music signal, while the second searches continuously for alternative frequencies on which the same program is being broadcast. If a changeover takes place, it takes only a fraction of a second. Another advantage is that the list of stations is continuously updated.

The MMI system’s modular structure makes it possible to integrate a CD changer and an analog/digital TV tuner. Audio quality is assured by a choice of sound systems. The top version in the Audi A8 comes as before from the Danish manufacturer Bang & Olufsen. With its rich, subtly differentiated sound spectrum and extended treble response from the tweeters, it provides pure delight for the ears.

The telephone is even more convenient to use with the new MMI. Using a Bluetooth chip, the system can fully integrate customers’ cell phones that support the SIM access profile. The MMI phone is ready for action as soon as the ignition key is inserted. It reads data from the SIM card and the memory into the A8’s own memory, then shuts the cell phone down completely. Telephone operation via the car’s antenna is the key to optimal reception quality. A digital voice processor ensures the best hands-free quality; voice outputs are through the car’s sound system.

In the background: concentrated hi-tech

The fantastic selection of functions that the new MMI offers is backed by hi-tech in concentrated form. The ‘main unit’ computer is installed in the center console, and integrates all the functions that were previously performed by five separate units, including the DVD drive. One of its key components is the hard disk; 10 GB of its 40 GB capacity can be used as a jukebox, to store up to 4,000 tracks, all sorted for easy access. The hard disk also contains navigation data and an electronic logbook for the car.

Two processors, an 800 MHz chip and a 500 MHz digital signal processor, allow all applications – navigation, voice input, telephone and audio functions – to operate simultaneously, although each of them needs high performance from the computer. Using the 3D graphics processor from Californian 3D chip manufacturer Nvidia gives the MMI access to the third dimension. Audi has used this chip’s outstanding performance with graphics for the first time to provide a genuine 3D map display – a ‘digital topographical model’. With this processor, the screen display sets new standards: it is attractive, with high resolution and presentation quality, smooth animation and crossfading.

A second block, the ‘radio unit’, combines the tuner and sound system functions. A central interface connects the two units with the rest of the car’s network. All the new MMI components have been developed to comply with strict specifications issued by Audi in Ingolstadt. Audi’s quality standards are as stringent as they always were. This is important because in-car operation, with extreme temperatures and vibration, imposes severe stresses on the electronics.

The new MMI will extend Audi’s lead over its competitors. It can be ordered as of now for the A8 luxury sedan, and will be available before long in the Audi A6 and then in the new Audi Q5 performance SUV.

BMW ADDS NEW “BMW SEARCH” SERVICE TO BMW ASSISTTM POWERED BY GOOGLE MAPS™.

Available in BMW Assist & Navigation-equipped 2009 BMW 1 & 3 Series Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey – September 15, 2008… BMW introduces access to Google Maps (http://maps.google.com) search capability within the vehicle on 2009 BMW Assist and Navigation system - equipped 1 and 3 Series. For the first time, subscribers to the optional BMW Assist Convenience Plan can access “BMW Search” to quickly find a desired business with just a key word, benefiting from the world’s most famous online search engine. After finding what you want, you can immediately start route guidance or a hands-free call with your Bluetooth® -linked phone at just a simple push of a button.

Utilizing newly introduced hardware operating on the AT&T Mobility GSM network, this unique service identifies the current location and destination of the vehicle automatically and then displays the local results with details of address, phone number and distance. For example, you can look up business information like the names of restaurants, hotels, service stations, banks, supermarkets, cinemas and public facilities such as schools or city halls, all by the simple use of a key word. You can also easily ask for a search at another location.

In a nutshell, “BMW Search” using Google search technology and intelligence saves time and reduces frustration with destination entry on today’s navigation systems. The information you look up is continuously updated by Google. “BMW Search” is the next logical and consequential development of the link between the automobile and the Internet.

To allow customers to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet directly to their BMW, Google and BMW began offering “MyInfo” with the introduction of the X6 back in April, now extended to all other 2009 BMWs except for X3. “BMW Search” now opens up access to the Internet directly from the vehicle, representing another building block in the BMW Assist services portfolio. About BMW Assist: BMW Assist provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road security and convenience, for added peace of mind. The BMW Assist and Bluetooth® System is standard on all 5, 6 and 7 Series models, including the M5 and M6, and is included in the Premium Package or available as a stand-alone option on all other models. BMW includes the Safety Plan for 4 years at no additional cost. BMW is the only manufacturer that offers this duration of service as other manufacturers only include the first year of service. The BMW Assist Safety Plan is a subscription based service that is subject to certain limitations.

The in-vehicle equipment integrates GPS technology and hands-free wireless communication functions to deliver emergency and other services, accessed via buttons in the overhead or center console. The BMW Assist system transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center. A response specialist speaks with the vehicle occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and/or requested. A severe accident automatically activates the Automatic Collision Notification function.

The BMW Assist Safety Plan also includes Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the driver time and money. New to BMW Assist is MyInfo, which allows users to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet, directly to their BMW. TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when the vehicle will need service. A service advisor then proactively calls the customer to set up a convenient appointment and have the needed parts ready.

BMW Assist subscribers can also enroll in the BMW Assist Convenience Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail themselves of BMW Assist concierge services; from finding the lowest fuel price or the best French restaurant in the area to information on flight arrival gates or times, as well as receiving directions, traffic and weather information. On most models produced September 2006 and later, a selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the BMW Navigation system and the subscriber’s Bluetooth - linked mobile phone, after a push of the Concierge menu option. New for 2009 is BMW Search, which allows online access to the Google Maps database inside the vehicle to quickly find a desired business with just a key word. The Convenience Plan also includes Critical Calling, a service that can connect the driver to a requested party via a response specialist in case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is discharged.

Lastly, the BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth hands-free calling and phone connectivity with phonebook access and speech recognition for dialing by name or number via steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a customer-provided compatible Bluetooth mobile phone. To learn more about BMW Assist, please visit www.bmwassist.com.

[via Bimmer File]

Are We There Yet? comScore M:Metrics Reports Mobile Map Use Grows 82 Percent in United States, 49 Percent in Europe

Reston, VA, July 24, 2008 — comScore, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCOR), a leader in measuring the digital world, today reported that the use of mobile maps is increasingly popular in the United States and Europe, with 8 percent of American mobile subscribers and 3 percent of European subscribers accessing maps from the mobile phone in the three-month period ending May 2008. This represents a growth rate of 82 percent and 49 percent in the number of users, respectively. According to the comScore M:Metrics Benchmark Study, the iPhone is the leading device used to access maps in the United States, and in Europe, the device trails the Nokia N95 and N70.

"The mobile phone as a personal navigation device makes tremendous sense," observed Mark Donovan, senior analyst, comScore. "With the influx of devices, such as the iPhone with GPS, entering the market, Nokia's purchase of NAVTEQ and the growing popularity of downloadable navigation applications, you don't need a map to see where this sector is going."

According to comScore, 73 percent of mobile subscribers accessing maps are doing so via the browser in the U.S., and in Europe, 57 percent. Less than a third of Americans and Europeans are using a downloaded application, which allows even feature phones, with less computing power and often smaller screens, to better render graphic-rich maps and directions. Despite the ubiquity of SMS usage in Europe, the penetration of consumers accessing maps and directions via SMS is 24 percent; only one percentage point higher than it is in the United States.

The vast majority of mobile map users are seeking driving directions, even in Europe, where public transportation and non-vehicular options are more popular.

While mobile access to maps has surged, online access to maps using the PC shows more modest gains in the United States and Western Europe. In the United Kingdom, which posted the highest growth in mobile access to maps at 72 percent, online access via the PC dipped from 45 percent penetration in May 2007 to 41 percent in May 2008. In the U.S., the increase in the number of users accessing maps from a mobile device far outpaced the increase in the number of people who accessed maps via the PC.