MAD Maps partners with TomTom

MAD [Motor Adventure Destinations] Maps, Inc., producers of regional and national scenic back road maps that feature full-color landscape relief imaging of local elevations for easy navigation, mileage markers, fuel stops, recommended road side eateries, lodging and other local attractions, has just released digital routes for the TomTom GO and TomTom RIDER portable GPS navigation systems. The two companies will showcase the digital maps on the TomTom RIDER at the Daytona 2006 Motorcycle Rally from March 3-13, 2006 in the Suzuki tent.

According to Jenny Lefferts, CEO and founder of MAD Maps, Inc., “Our partnership with TomTom is an obvious link for us. We create and document popular driving routes that are not easily found on conventional maps. Now we can make these itineraries even more accessible in a digital format so that travelers can conveniently reach their destinations. It’s amazing to discover,” she continues, “just how many domestic road trips are logged in the United States and how much easier it will be to travel them with the TomTom GPS devices.”

TomTom GO is TomTom’s top of the line, all-in-one navigation device. Incredibly easy to use and understand, the GO’s crystal-clear color screen guides the driver in 3D, while voice instruction in 35 language choices navigates the driver to any address in the US or Canada. The driver simply picks a destination, chooses the type of route they prefer (i.e., fastest, shortest, avoid highways) and the TomTom GO guides the driver from door to door. Millions of points of interest are available to choose from, such as gas stations, restaurants and hotels. The built in Bluetooth™ connection provides easy hands-free calling with the TomTom GO 700. The driver only needs to tap the screen to accept or make calls.

TomTom RIDER, the first-ever portable GPS device designed specifically for motorcycles, is rugged and weather resistant. It’s anti-glare technology and integrated sun visor make the screen easy to see while driving. The easy to use drive mode is designed for simple touch-screen operation, even with gloves. The crystal-clear 3D view and a Bluetooth wireless headset lets you hear turn-by-turn instructions in your helmet. The Bluetooth™ connection also allows for hands-free calling with a Bluetooth-enabled cell phone.

TomTom’s US President, Jocelyn Vigreux said, “The specialized route information provided by MAD Maps, Inc. brings an added benefit to our customers. At TomTom, easy and innovative navigation has always been our number one priority. We also strive to provide our customers with a variety of additional options to enhance their lifestyles and personal preferences. With digital MAD Maps our customers can simply click on the screen and find an entire scenic route planned for them, complete with motorcycle friendly services.”

All MAD Maps routes have been tracked and collected by MAD Maps’ team of regional and national scouts and cartographers. The digital routes for MAD Maps have been developed by MAD Maps in partnership with TomTom and Tele Atlas, a leading provider of digital maps and dynamic location content. Tele Atlas is the base cartographer for MAD Maps and also provides the source map data for the TomTom GO line in addition to other TomTom products. Navteq provides the source map data for the TomTom RIDER. MAD Maps, Inc. and TomTom will be demonstrating their new digital maps on the TomTom RIDER at the Daytona 2006 Rally March 3-13, 2006, in the Suzuki tent.

The 2006 RIDER MAD Map itinerary can be downloaded at: http://www.clubtomtom.com/products/mad-maps-daytona-rider-itineraries-now-available/#more-46

The MSRP on the TomTom RIDER is $899.95. The TomTom RIDER can be purchased at www.tomtom.com as well as at select retailers.

March 8, 2006

MAD Maps partners with TomTom