Dash Navigation, Inc. has selected Tele Atlas, a global provider of digital maps and dynamic content for navigation and location-based solutions, to supply digital map and point-of-interest (POI) data for the Dash Express navigation system. Through this relationship, Dash will use Tele Atlas' newly released MultiNet 2006.10 digital map development platform to tackle the chief complaint of existing GPS owners, out-of-date maps. By leveraging Dash Express' unique two-way wireless connectivity along with Tele Atlas' highly accurate, comprehensive digital map data, Dash will provide seamless, automatic map updates that require no effort whatsoever from consumers.

With its unique and seamless Internet connectivity, the Dash Express navigation system automatically updates its maps and software over-the-air to ensure that consumers have the most accurate driving directions as well as the latest product features. Existing navigation devices often require users to initiate an update – from loading multiple CD-ROMs to removing the device from the car and plugging it into a PC. As a result, these devices may not be kept up to date regularly by the user.

"With Dash Express' automatic updating process, drivers will always have the most accurate map data and POI content at their fingertips, ensuring they are able to easily find the people, products and places of interest and the best routes to them,” said Tele Atlas Vice President of Personal Navigation Quan Vu. "By working with Dash, we're able to support their innovative approach to making navigation technology accessible and easy for the end-user.”

Dash Express will ship with pre-loaded POIs (such as restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, etc.) provided by Tele Atlas and the capacity to add additional personalized destination categories based on user preferences from the MyDash web site. In addition, Dash Destination Search brings the power of Internet "local-search” engines into the vehicle, instantly providing access to an unlimited amount of relevant, location-based POIs.

According to Dash Navigation, the Dash Express is slated for release in California in early 2007 and will be available nationally in summer next year. While the exact pricing for the Dash Express has not yet been announced, it will be comparable to other advanced GPS products on the market, the supplier said.

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