| 04mdx4sq |
from the Alpine CES release:
ALPINE INTRODUCES REAL-TIME TRAFFIC DATA NAVIGATION SYSTEM
New Navigation Unit Wins 2005 CES “Innovations Award”
TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 6, 2005 – Addressing the need for real-time traffic information and recommended route changes that will save drivers time and aggravation, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., the industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance mobile electronics, today introduced the NVE-N872A navigation system. The product, which works in tandem with Alpine’s Real Time Traffic Data Receiver, has been named a 2005 CES “Innovations Award” winner for the Mobile/Vehicle Electronics Navigation, Safety and Security category.
The DVD-based NVE-N872A is Alpine’s fourth generation satellite-linked navigation system. It is based on an Alpine in-vehicle navigation platform, which has won J.D. Power awards four times in six years.
“Our award-winning user interface makes this fourth-generation navigation system the most user-friendly one on the road. The added benefit of the on-demand traffic data makes it possible for users to get fast updates for finding alternate routes around traffic, improving the experience of driving with navigation,” said Stephen Witt, vice president, Brand Marketing, Alpine Electronics.
For select U.S. cities, the optional Real Time Traffic Data Receiver, powered by NAVTEQ Traffic™, automatically directs drivers around traffic congestion and accidents and saves time by recommending the most efficient route possible (when this feature is turned on). The system provides real-time traffic updates on the screen every three minutes and alerts drivers to accidents and other obstructions with visual icons. Additionally, it may simultaneously display sports, stocks or weather information from the data stream.
“The inclusion of NAVTEQ Traffic data is an encouraging indication that dynamic information such as traffic incidents and congestion is an important evolution for navigation systems,” said John MacLeod, Executive Vice President – Global Marketing and Strategy for NAVTEQ. “The addition of NAVTEQ Traffic is an extension of our ongoing relationship to provide the highest quality, most accurate map, voice, points of interest and now traffic data.”
The NVE-N872A is compatible with six Alpine monitors: the TME-M770 touch-screen and TME-M710 6.5-inch widescreen monitors; the TMI-M990 7-inch WVGA motorized in-dash monitor; the CVA-1014 Mobile Multimedia Station™ with 6.5-inch motorized monitor; the IVA-D901 DVD Mobile Multimedia Station with 7-inch WVGA LCD motorized monitor; and the IVA-D310 DVD Mobile Multimedia Station with 7-inch motorized monitor and PulseTouch™ feature.
When the NVE-N872A is used with the IVA-D310 or TME-M770, users have the choice of interfacing with the system and inputting data three different ways: via remote control, touch screen or voice control. The IVA-D310’s innovative PulseTouch technology delivers tactile confirmation of on-screen commands through the user’s fingertips. The technology can simulate different key styles to provide a unique feel when holding down, tapping, sliding or pushing a button.
Another unique feature that comes from the pairing of the navigation system with the IVA-D310 is the ability to control the basic audio functions of the IVA-D310 via voice commands. By using the supplied microphone and “Speak” button that comes with the NVE-N872A, basic audio functions such as source selection (“CD,” “Radio,” “iPod,” for example) and basic iPod playback (“Play,” “Pause,” “Track Up/Down,” when an iPod and separate KCA-420i Interface Adapter for iPod are connected) can be controlled through the user’s spoken voice commands.
Drivers may also chose from three languages for their turn-by-turn voice commands (English, Spanish or French). Additionally, with the included voice recognition feature, the proprietary “Street Name Input” makes it possible to find a street by simply speaking its name, instead of spelling it out.
“The 3D Highway Junction Zoom” includes every major freeway junction in the U.S., highlighting the route for worry-free driving. The map provides visual representation of actual exit layouts, announces actual highway entrance/exit names and highlights the correct path on the screen, which is especially helpful when there are multiple options at one exit. Also, offered in 37 major cities around the US, “Smart City Map” shows major landmarks, road widths and building outlines in a 3D-like view, making it easy to navigate on streets where buildings may obstruct the view.
Included with the navigation system is the NVD-A801 software package. This new 2-disc SmartMap Pro DVD set includes full U.S. (including Hawaii) and Canada coverage, and more than nine million unique points of interest. “Exit Authority” makes road trips easy by telling drivers what is at the next interstate exit (gas stations, ATMs, restaurants, parking structures, hotels, grocery stores, etc.) This feature is particularly useful to RV’ers and professional drivers looking for specific services at an exit.
Users can personalize their system and get to their favorite destinations with ease. New for 2005, favorite destinations can be stored for easy one-touch recall, and can be stored by place type (i.e. Bank) or brand name (i.e. Wells Fargo). The Favorites can be accessed from the menu system or remote control. Getting home is also easy simply by pressing the “Home” button on the remote control.
The navigation system also functions as a personal concierge with the Zagat Survey guide. The survey provides ratings on a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, nightlife and other entertainment categories. The system displays Zagat ratings scores on Food, Décor, Service and Cost for select Zagat-reviewed destinations.
The NVE-N872A includes a PC-card slot. This slot makes it possible to transfer data to the system making it upgradeable so consumers will be able to keep their system updated with future navigation advancements.
The NVE-N872A will be available at authorized Alpine retailers in summer 2005. Suggested retail index is TBD. The Real Time Traffic Data Receiver will be available in late summer 2005; suggested retail index is TBD.
About Alpine Electronics
Alpine Electronics is the world’s leading automotive consumer electronics system supplier and an ISO certified global corporation. Alpine specializes in engineering solutions for mobile multimedia system integration that includes digital audio and video playback, digital broadcast reception, satellite-linked navigation and device connectivity. With research and development facilities in Asia, Europe and the U.S., Alpine is the global specialist for premium sound systems and in-vehicle navigation for both after-market and OEM factory installations. Alpine Electronics is a consolidated subsidiary of Alps Electric Co., Ltd., one of the world’s premier manufacturers of electronic components for computer, communications and car electronics equipment. Visit "http://www.alpine-usa.com/" www.alpine-usa.com to learn more about Alpine products or to find an authorized retailer.
Can't wait to get ahold of this.
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| renov8r |
...so I think it is fair to say that a tweak or two should find the same system in our favorite vehicle soon!
I really hope that the line about the PC Card slot was not just puffery -- I Alpine has the technology & the will to provide upgrades to us I think it might be smart to try and mount a campaign with 'em for upgrades ASAP!! |
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