Satellite navigation

The following is quite an interesting article concerning satellite navigation and safety. Until I read this I never thought of satellite navigation as being a driver safety feature. As far as I know, this device is only available on the more expensive cars.

CONCORD, Mass., Feb. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading Dutch research institute TNO today announced the results of research that prove the positive influence of satellite navigation devices on driving and traffic safety. The study was commissioned by Aon, Athlon Car Lease, Delta Lloyd (part of Aviva Plc) and TomTom.

Key findings:
* The use of a satellite navigation device improves the driver's behavior when driving through an unknown area to an unknown destination;
* The use of a satellite navigation system heightens alertness and reduces the stress levels of the driver;
* Drivers who do NOT have the use of a satellite navigation solution have 12% more damage claims to their vehicles;
* The use of a TomTom satellite navigation solution reduces the amount of miles driven by 16%;
* The use of a TomTom satellite navigation solution reduces travel time when driving through an unknown area to an unknown destination by 18%;

* The use of a TomTom satellite navigation solution reduces the workload (the amount of effort it takes the driver to drive) of the driver when traveling through an unknown area to an unknown destination.

Alexander Ribbink, chief operating officer for TomTom, said: "We have always designed our products with safety as a key priority. All our tests have always proven that our products act as a genuine aid to driving. This independent research now strengthens this.

TomTom owners benefit from increased awareness, a reduced workload, less stress, less time and distance traveled in getting to their destination. On top of that there are clear environmental and economic benefits. All in all, we provide drivers with the ability to keep their eyes on the road and get from A to B as safely and efficiently as possible."

Improvement of driving behavior
The research showed that when drivers use a satellite navigation solution they stop 25% less frequently and are stationary for 35% less time. Satellite navigation solutions also reduce the number of turns required to get to the destination compared to conventional navigation tools, such as paper maps or online route planners. What is also shown is that driving behavior has improved, with more than 50% fewer inappropriate actions, such as ignoring traffic signs. The driver can focus on driving rather than finding the way.

More alert and less stressed behind the wheel
The research showed that satellite navigation solutions heighten the alertness of drivers and provide them with an improved attention span, while also reducing stress. 78% of users have the feeling that they have everything under control when using a TomTom satellite navigation solution. They are more alert behind the wheel and more conscious of traffic behind them.

Less workload
The research proves that the workload of drivers is reduced when using a satellite navigation solution. The workload is 20% less when driving with a TomTom satellite navigation solution and involved less exertion. Driving while using conventional navigation tools, such as maps and digital Internet route planners, proved to present a more intense workload.

Reduction of mileage
The research proved that the amount of actual distance driven when using a TomTom satellite navigation solution is reduced by 16%. Time spent traveling is reduced by 18%. Because fewer miles are driven, fuel is saved, which is beneficial for both the car driver and the environment.

Reduction in frequency of insurance claims
The research proves that lease drivers who do NOT have satellite navigation make 12% more damage claims than those who do have satellite navigation.

About the research
There were three elements used to determine the answer to the central question "What are the effects of navigation systems on traffic safety?": a user survey; damage database analysis; and test drives. The research program was conducted in The Netherlands over a six month period and was completed in December 2006. The findings of this study show that satellite navigation solutions have a positive effect on traffic safety.

* The research methods, the justifications and results have been
summarized in a 'key findings' document that can be requested through
the contacts listed at the bottom of this press release.

In case of any discrepancy between this press release and the original English version, the English version prevails.
For more information please contact:
Karen Drake, TomTom Inc.
Telephone: 978-405-1688
Email: us.publicrelations@tomtom.com
Or
Will Safer, Hill & Knowlton
Telephone: 212-885-0490
Email: will.safer@hillandknowlton.com

About TomTom
TomTom NV is the world's largest navigation solution provider. TomTom's products are developed with an emphasis on innovation, quality, ease of use and value. TomTom's products include all-in-one navigation devices which enable customers to navigate right out of the box; these are the award-winning TomTom GO family, the TomTom ONE range and the TomTom RIDER. TomTom PLUS, is the location-based content and services offering for TomTom's navigation products easily available through TomTom HOME. TomTom also provides navigation software products which integrate with third party devices; the TomTom NAVIGATOR software for PDA's and smartphones. TomTom WORK combines industry leading communication and smart navigation technology with leading edge tracking and tracing expertise. TomTom's products are sold through a network of leading retailers in 25 countries and online. TomTom was founded in 1991 in Amsterdam and has offices in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. TomTom is listed at Euronext, Amsterdam Stock Exchange in The Netherlands. For more information, go to http://www.tomtom.com.

About TNO
TNO is a prominent, independent knowledge company whose expertise and research contributes significantly to the competitiveness of businesses and organizations, to the economy and to the quality of life as a whole. Versatility and capacity to integrate this knowledge makes TNO unique. TNO employs some 4500 professionals.

Five core areas:
* TNO Quality of Life
* TNO Defence, Security and Safety
* TNO Science and Industry
* TNO Built Environment and Geosciences
* TNO Information and Communication Technology

In the field of Traffic and Transport TNO combines expertise in vehicle engineering, broad experience of ICT applications and knowledge of driver behavior and the traffic system. All this in a social context where quality of life and pressure for space are issues. The relevant expertise and experience of some 400 TNO professionals throughout the organization enable us to provide the right kind of advice and deliver clever products that integrate elements of policy, behavior and technology.
Source: TomTom