The High-tech Tool that Has Revolutionized the Road Trip

(ARA) - Spring Break is just around the corner, and if you're among the millions of Americans planning to travel to your vacation destination by car, you may have a high-tech navigation system along for the ride.

According to statistics kept by NAVTEQ, a leading global provider of digital maps for vehicle navigation (and location-based solutions), since 1999 nearly 18 million US and Canadian vehicles have been equipped with either in-dash or portable electronic navigation systems, tools that relegate the paper map to the glove compartment.

A hands-free map is not the only benefit an in-vehicle navigation system offers. There's also the time-savings, as you'll be far less likely to get lost while trying to reach your destination; not to mention gas savings. By knowing exactly how to get to your destination, even when in unfamiliar areas, you are less likely to drive out of your way searching for street names or the next turn.

The technological advance that makes all this possible is an on-board computer that interacts with Global Position System (GPS) satellites and a digital map database to pinpoint the vehicle location and provide guidance to a destination.

"In order for GPS information to be useful, the data must be used in conjunction with an accurate, up-to-date digital map," advises Cliff Fox of NAVTEQ. "We feel NAVTEQ maps are an excellent solution because they're updated quarterly to deliver accuracy."

Many navigation systems also offer voice navigation features. The text-to-speech voice directions will announce directions by street names to guide you more safely. Hearing "turn right on Main street." as opposed to finding it on a paper map allows you to keep your eyes on the road.

So whether you're headed to Florida, Wyoming, Texas or California, you can rest assured that you'll be able to find the attraction you want to visit your preferred restaurant, ATM or gas station with ease. NAVTEQ digital maps offer superior reliability, details and accuracy along every route.

For more information about digital technology, and the features available for your vehicle or portable electronic device, log on to www.NAVTEQ.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent