">http://Trafficmaster PLC
05 October 2005

5 October 2005



Trafficmaster signs 5 year contract to work with Norwich Union on "Pay As You
Drive"TM Insurance



Trafficmaster, the leading supplier of digital traffic information and
intelligent in-vehicle services, has signed a five year contract with Norwich
Union (NU) to deliver "Pay As You Drive"TM (PAYD) insurance services to the
motorist.



Trafficmaster will supply NU with an initial quantity of 10,000 advanced "
black-box" in-car units in the first half of 2006. The black box, which is
already being used for both Trafficmaster's navigation unit Smartnav and
tracking device RAC Trackstar, identifies the location of the vehicle to allow
the delivery of PAYD insurance.



NU customers will be offered comprehensive products that provide cost effective
insurance together with a raft of optional in-vehicle services. These will
include safety camera warnings, Smartnav navigation, emergency and breakdown
calls and stolen vehicle tracking from RAC Trackstar.



Tony Eales, Chief Executive of Trafficmaster, said "This is a major new market
for Trafficmaster as it not only provides large scale deployment of our
in-vehicle units but also provides an opportunity to sell our other compelling
services. The deal provides a new way to deliver Smartnav and it will allow us
to offer insurance products to many of our own subscribers."



Stephen Doran, Director of Business Development at Norwich Union said "Our
partnership with Trafficmaster will allow us to deliver some very compelling new
customer propositions combining "Pay As You Drive" TM Insurance from Norwich
Union with a range of added value in-vehicle services that Trafficmaster will
deliver. Norwich Union have been the pioneers of PAYD insurance in the UK, and
this partnership will allow us to take the programme to the next level."



-ends-


Trafficmaster Tel: 01234 759 300
Tony Eales, Chief Executive
Stuart Berman, Executive Director

Financial Dynamics Tel: 020 7831 3113
Ben Atwell / John Gilbert



Trafficmaster

Founded in 1988, Trafficmaster Plc is the UK's leading journey management
company providing high quality satellite navigation, traffic data and vehicle
tracking systems.



Trafficmaster's traffic information is derived from its unique state-of-the-art
network of nationwide static roadside sensors and transmitters that gather and
distribute traffic data from over 8,000 miles of motorway and trunk routes.
Traffic data is then delivered to the customer through a number of screen or
speech-based receivers. These include a variety of in-car products and services
that include its satellite navigation - Smartnav, Trafficmaster Monitor, YQ(2),
Oracle and Freeway units. Traffic information can also be obtained by phoning
the 1740 service, which is run in partnership with the RAC and the UK's main
mobile phone operators.



The traffic data provided through Trafficmaster RDS TMC is used, in conjunction
with third party satellite navigation systems, to route drivers around
congestion. The data is broadcast on licensed radio networks owned by GCap Media
Plc and Chrysalis Radio and is provided to original equipment manufacturers
(OEMs) or direct to automotive manufacturers.



For more information please visit www.tmc.co.uk or www.trafficmaster.co.uk or
contact:



Pay As You Drive (PAYD)



Pay As You Drive is the concept of insurance charging based upon usage.



About Norwich Union Insurance

Norwich Union is the UK's largest insurer with a market share of around 14 per
cent.

With a focus on insurance for individuals and small businesses, Norwich Union
insures:

- One in five households

- One in seven motor vehicles

- Around 800,000 businesses



Norwich Union products are available through a variety of distribution channels
including brokers, corporate partners such as banks and building societies and
Norwich Union Direct.



Aviva, Norwich Union's parent company, recently announced its acquisition of the
RAC. The acquisition brings together the RAC's powerful brand and customer base
with the expertise and leading position in motor insurance of Norwich Union
Insurance.




This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
END

CNTUUGQAUUPAGMC

Kivver ;>)

make that 6.5%... and soon 200%

Peugeot promotes Smartnav features of 407
UK 13 Dec 2005

Peugeot: Smartnav online push
LONDON - Peugeot has unveiled a microsite to promote the Smartnav feature in its 407 Saloon and SW models.

An interactive campaign and the site highlight the benefits of the Smartnav location and traffic avoidance system, and support Peugeot's current national television advertising campaign.

The push targets a business audience for potential buyers of the cars with a stress-free driving message.

Benefits of Smartnav are explained in four Flash animations that take the viewer through real-life scenarios, including congestion, accidents and safety cameras, and compare the user journey in a Peugeot fitted with Smartnav and a car without. There are also links to book a test drive and order a brochure.

MRM Worldwide developed the creative for the interactive campaign and website and the campaign will run until the end of March 2006.

Colin Barnard, new-media manager at Peugeot, said: "We are impressed with MRM Worldwide's track record in the automotive sector, and in implementing campaigns targeting consumers where the online strategy is fully integrated into the broader marketing activity."

Tim Reeve, project manager at MRM, said: "This is a genuine thrust forward for MRM and a fantastic client win. The campaign has drawn on our prior experiences and proven expertise in implementing tactical initiatives for major global brands at short notice."

Way to go - get a fix on the perfect sat nav
Satellite navigation systems are the must-have Christmas present. Dave Pollard of The Sunday Times steers you through the contenders





Mark Bourdillon

Once only seen as a built-in option in top of the range executive saloons, satellite navigation has become a sought-after feature of everyday motoring. The explosion of portable systems means that any driver can now set the destination, relax and simply listen to or follow the directions.
But with hundreds of portable systems now available and all the major brands gearing up for Christmas with updated versions, the choice can seem bewildering. So, before you choose, there are a few general rules to consider.

Make sure it is easy to use. Most, but not all, are now operated by touchscreen. On the whole these are the ones to go for: there is nothing more frustrating than scrolling through a never-ending menu, punching buttons and getting nowhere. Touchscreens are simple to use and save time.

There is no point in paying more for a system with high-tech features you will never use. Similarly, if you often travel to Europe there is no point in a system that only has UK mapping.



All the systems below offer a postcode search option. This is by far the easiest way to set your destination. However, many offer just five figures and letters, which can cover quite a wide area. A full seven-character search is far more accurate.

Make sure the device can be operated by batteries. Some need to plugged into the car, usually the cigar lighter, which can be unsightly. But check the lifespan of the batteries, which can range from four to 12 hours.

Her voice might grate, but receiving spoken directions is easier, safer and quicker than having to glance down at the on-screen map every few miles, so make sure the one you choose has audio directions.

Ensure the map on the screen is clear and easy to interpret, even if the system has audio directions. Many newer systems have a 3D image as well as or instead of the flat two-dimensional map. Which one to go for is a matter of personal taste but the 3D map, while looking impressive, can be distracting. The normal map is more useful for spotting upcoming bends.

Take care also with the type of mapping on offer: devices claiming to cover Great Britain do not include Northern Ireland (you will need UK mapping for that) and the Republic of Ireland is not included unless it specifically says so. Theres also a difference between full European mapping (typically 27 countries) and a European base map, which includes only major roads.

You must also decide how much information you want the system to display. Some devices come with speed camera positions loaded as places of interest. These can be useful, but make sure only those cameras covering your side of the road are highlighted, otherwise half the icons will be useless.

One feature lacking in most portable systems compared with fully fitted systems is traffic avoidance. This feeds the sat nav with traffic information gleaned from the radio or dedicated services and recalculates a new route if heavy traffic is reported.

The few portable devices that contain this feature tend to be the more expensive ones. If it is something you particularly want but are reluctant to spend extra on a more advanced device, it might be worth having that information sent to your mobile phone instead. Traffic TV delivers CCTV images of the road ahead to your mobile phone, enabling you to see where the delays are. You can also access Trafficmaster data displayed as a map pinpointing delays. It costs about 40 a year.

Below we have listed our top sat nav systems in the budget, mid-range and premium price brackets. There are many other systems, but our choices are broadly in line with the criteria mentioned above. Prices include those quoted by the manufacturer, but it pays to shop around. We have included an example of the sort of deals available from reliable online outlets.

BUDGET


Garmin Streetpilot i3
293 from Garmin
159 from Comet



This is the cheapest and best value device on the market. It has the smallest screen (1.7in) and is about the size of a cricket ball, making it convenient and very portable. It runs for about six hours on two AA batteries and also from a 12V power source. It doesnt have a touchscreen, but the scroll function is relatively easy to use and it has loads of features, including 3D mapping, voice directions and full seven-digit postcode search.


Navman iCN320
199 from Navman
159.98 from Comet



The closest to Garmin for price, it has a larger screen and is slightly different from other systems as it doesnt show a full map but uses a next direction arrow. This can be confusing at first but is useful once you are used to it, especially where there are turnings in close proximity. Like the Garmin it doesnt have touchscreen, but does have voice guidance and a full postcode search.

MID-RANGE


Garmin c310
352 from Garmin
279.99 from Comet

STAR BUY
This has UK and Ireland mapping and combines style with extremely user-friendly functions. Its system is by far the simplest to use. Inputting the destination on the touchscreen is also made easier with the accurate predictive text feature. One very minor problem is that the mounting bracket has the 12V lead attached (most others are detachable) so that even if you are running the system on battery power you still have the lead hanging down.


TomTom One
279.99 from TomTom
278.47 from Halfords

This looks more conventional than its predecessor but is just as easy to use. It has full UK and Ireland mapping and features new GPS antenna technology, enabling it to pick up satellite signals very quickly. Our test model was the quickest and most accurate of the lot, even in built-up areas where it is sometimes hard to get a signal. However, the touchscreen keys are small, so you need to use your little finger or fingernail to hit them.




Navman iCN 520
349 from Navman
249.99 from Comet



This is small, slim and weighs just 200g, so it is easy to carry, even on foot. The touchscreen is simple to use and comes with a stylus to help input data accurately. The battery is rechargeable. We found the system a little slow in starting up and in locating the satellite signal, and the selector pads located alongside the screen, which can be used instead of the touchscreen, were over-sensitive, resulting in incorrect entries being keyed in.



PREMIUM


Mio 269 Plus Digi Walker
349.99 from Mio



The Mio bristles with features. The 2.5GB hard drive contains full European mapping (13.2m kilometres of road) and has 500MB left over for storage of MP3 files so that you can load up your favourite music (about eight hours worth) and listen to it when not using the sat nav function. The system also comes with headphones and bracket for cycle handlebar mounting.




TomTom Go 700
549 from TomTom
449.99 from Halfords



The Go 700 is the top of the companys tree. The TomTom 500 is equally good but does not include the 700s key selling point its Bluetooth hands-free kit (including speaker and microphone), which can be used to dial up weather information (free) and traffic data via your mobile for an annual charge of about 40. There is also a remote control.


Navman iCN550
599 from Navman
529.99 from Comet


The iCN550 has full European mapping and when bought with the TM 550 module costs 599. This gives TMC (traffic message channel), where details of traffic incidents and delays are picked up and shown on the map. When one coincides with a route the driver is given the option to reroute (this also works in France and Germany). It is the most costly but for high-mileage drivers it is probably the best.

Cant you find some longer stories to copy and paste. Good rise today kat, on a pe of 6, have you after many months of trying finally found us a winner. GOOD LUCK.

tym was a winner, three times... what you one about//

oh bad luck kat, looks like your lucks run out. But good for a day. me??? i take take, dont give.

13/Dec/2005
SMARTNAV SATELLITE NAVIGATION IS CHOSEN AS AN APPROVED ACCESSORY BY VOLKSWAGEN GROUP


For immediate release -13th December 2005



SMARTNAV SATELLITE NAVIGATION IS CHOSEN AS AN APPROVED ACCESSORY BY VOLKSWAGEN GROUP


Volkswagen Group United Kingdom Ltd has just signed an agreement with Trafficmaster, the leading journey management company, to offer Smartnav as an approved accessory on the Passat, Golf and Golf Plus models from the December 2005.

Volkswagen customers will benefit from Smartnavs advanced, easy to use navigation, which uses Trafficmasters real-time live traffic data to calculate the best routes. Motorists simply press a button and talk to a real operator a Smartnav Personal Assistant. A route is then calculated avoiding the traffic delays and sent to the car within seconds. The driver is then given clear turn-by-turn verbal instructions throughout the journey. Smartnav meanwhile constantly monitors your journey ahead for traffic delays and will warn you in advanced and offer an alternative route it necessary.

Smartnav can be purchased from all 250 Volkswagen retailers. It costs 599 including installation*.

Customers have a free 12 month subscription to the Smartnav navigation system if they elect to pay future subscriptions by direct debit. They will also benefit from the Smartnav personal assistants who help download your route and provide a concierge service and breakdown & emergency support. All Volkswagen customers will also receive one months free use of Safe Speed, a speed camera alert system and RAC Trackstar, the leading GPS based stolen vehicle tracking service. Volkswagen will also be offering Smartnavs Touchscreen - a small screen that provides visual instructions to complement the verbal directions and an alternative method to setting up journeys.

Daniel Hill, Aftersales Marketing Product Manager from Volkswagen Group United Kingdom Ltd, comments:
"Smartnav is an excellent option to offer our customers. It provides the latest in satellite navigation that combines real-time traffic, up-to-date mapping, speed camera alerts, stolen vehicle tracking and even a personal touch with the Smartnav assistants. We believe this is going to be a popular accessory and we look forward to adding Smartnav as an approved accessory on other Volkswagen models."


ENDS
http://www.trafficmaster.co.uk/shownews.cfm?num=388

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Does anyone ever get fed up of endless copy and pastes?

13/Dec/2005
SMARTNAV SATELLITE NAVIGATION IS CHOSEN AS AN APPROVED ACCESSORY BY VOLKSWAGEN GROUP


For immediate release -13th December 2005



SMARTNAV SATELLITE NAVIGATION IS CHOSEN AS AN APPROVED ACCESSORY BY VOLKSWAGEN GROUP


Volkswagen Group United Kingdom Ltd has just signed an agreement with Trafficmaster, the leading journey management company, to offer Smartnav as an approved accessory on the Passat, Golf and Golf Plus models from the December 2005.

Volkswagen customers will benefit from Smartnavs advanced, easy to use navigation, which uses Trafficmasters real-time live traffic data to calculate the best routes. Motorists simply press a button and talk to a real operator a Smartnav Personal Assistant. A route is then calculated avoiding the traffic delays and sent to the car within seconds. The driver is then given clear turn-by-turn verbal instructions throughout the journey. Smartnav meanwhile constantly monitors your journey ahead for traffic delays and will warn you in advanced and offer an alternative route it necessary.

Smartnav can be purchased from all 250 Volkswagen retailers. It costs 599 including installation*.

Customers have a free 12 month subscription to the Smartnav navigation system if they elect to pay future subscriptions by direct debit. They will also benefit from the Smartnav personal assistants who help download your route and provide a concierge service and breakdown & emergency support. All Volkswagen customers will also receive one months free use of Safe Speed, a speed camera alert system and RAC Trackstar, the leading GPS based stolen vehicle tracking service. Volkswagen will also be offering Smartnavs Touchscreen - a small screen that provides visual instructions to complement the verbal directions and an alternative method to setting up journeys.

Daniel Hill, Aftersales Marketing Product Manager from Volkswagen Group United Kingdom Ltd, comments:
"Smartnav is an excellent option to offer our customers. It provides the latest in satellite navigation that combines real-time traffic, up-to-date mapping, speed camera alerts, stolen vehicle tracking and even a personal touch with the Smartnav assistants. We believe this is going to be a popular accessory and we look forward to adding Smartnav as an approved accessory on other Volkswagen models."


ENDS
http://www.trafficmaster.co.uk/shownews.cfm?num=388

Tfc have been getting closer to VW group for some time.Deals with Audi and Seat.They obviously rate the system.The next step would be a standard fit contract similar to the Peogot ones.
This relationship has vast potential due to the size of the VW group.I think the main thing missing now is advertising.SmartNav should be as well known as TomTom,then sales would fly.Tfc keeps doing the deals,it should give its clients the backing they deserve.

egg, smartnav is already advertised on TV

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