Traffic data on satellite radio
By: Jack Nerad for Driving Today
Date: 2005-03-10
Sirius Satellite Radio has forged a deal to provide comprehensive traffic data to vehicles over its nationwide satellite radio network. The company has partnered with NAVTEQ, a provider of mapping and traffic data reporting services, to offer its subscribers reliable traffic information in their vehicles. The new service will provide consumers with regularly updated traffic information, such as collisions, scheduled road closings, traffic flow data, or other traffic-related incidents to help them select the best available route. Traffic information will be integrated into new in-car navigation systems combining route guidance and mapping with traffic. Initially, the service will cover 30 markets and is expected to expand to over 50 markets.
The new data service is expected to complement the company's previously existing "First Traffic" audio service by providing a visual representation of current traffic conditions specific to each link of roadway. Over time, additional features will be added to help determine estimated drive times on a given route, based on historical traffic patterns.
"Combined with an in-car navigational system, consumers will be able to accurately determine the most direct routes through the mapping function, while being continuously informed about potential delays or incidents that could disrupt their travel plans," said Jim Meyer, president of operations and sales for Sirius.
Current Sirius automotive and retail partners are expected to offer it as a product upgrade for their upcoming navigational systems. The company currently delivers more than 120 channels of commercial-free music, talk shows, news and information, and sports programming to subscribers across the U.S. in digital quality sound.
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