September 27, 2005

AOL's MapQuest in deal with TomTom- The MapQuest PND

TomTom, (makers of the TomTom GO300, GO700, TomTom Rider, and the NAVIGATOR 5 - a BlueTooth GPS module) announced today that they are working with AOL's MapQuest to launch an automobile unit - branded the MapQuest Personal Navigation Device (PND).

From the information here, it sounds like a re-branded and customized TomTom GO 300, pictured to the right.

"The MapQuest Personal Navigation Device represents the most natural and significant extension of our brand to date, as we move beyond the PC and take navigation into the car making it simple for drivers to reach their desired destination and change course, if needed," said Austin Klahn, Chief Technology Officer, MapQuest, Inc. "We selected TomTom, a global leader in developing personal navigation solutions, as we believe they offer the latest technology and the best consumer experience in personal navigation devices in the marketplace today."

"TomTom is proud to offer a customized solution based on its award-winning line of GPS products to MapQuest - the pre-eminent online map provider. Our innovative 3D view, full touch screen operation and voice-guided instructions deliver on the ease of use that MapQuest users have come to expect online," said Jocelyn Vigreux, President, TomTom Inc., United States. "This relationship is a wonderful endorsement of our leadership position in the industry. We believe both companies - and consumers - will benefit as TomTom expands its presence in the U.S by bringing innovative personal navigation solutions to market."

The unit weighs 11 ounces with dimensions of 4.5" x 3.6" x 2.3", the device's compact, portable design makes it easy to transfer from car to car. The MapQuest PND also offers:

- Convenient features such as anti-glare, touch-sensitive LCD screen for optimal viewing
- An itinerary planner to allow multiple stops on a journey
- Millions of points of interest including gas stations, parking garages, hotels and restaurants with optional audio and visual alerts as you approach one
- 1 GB removable SD card with a map of the continental United States preloaded. Maps of Canada, Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico and Guam are included on CD
- Multi-lingual capability in over 18 languages with over 50 voices
- The ability to preview a calculated route before you begin driving
- A long-life, rechargeable battery that can be charged at home or in the car

The MapQuest PND price will be $699 (Street), and will be available only through MapQuest.com starting October 3rd, 2005.