Feb/Mar 2008

A full launch was given at the CeBIT show in Germany to the latest map&guide truck navigator satnav system from PTV, which the company is describing as the first navigation tool specifically designed for HGVs.

The new product makes use of the truck-specific navigation features introduced last autumn in the Navteq Transport map dataset. This identifies roads and streets suitable for lorries, avoiding narrow side streets and other such problematic features. The maps also contain data relating to hazardous goods transport, such as roads closed to water-polluting shipments or explosive and poisonous substances.

The data includes detailed information about roads closed for heavy goods vehicles in France, Great Britain, the Benelux countries and Germany. More countries will follow soon, PTV says.

To ensure that the system works properly for each size and type of vehicle, users can set up vehicle profiles from various pre-set parameters, entering details on height, width, length, tonnage, maximum axle load and so on. Users can also choose to avoid routes through residential areas - and (particularly important) can stipulate that detours should be based on streets or roads that are suitable for lorries.

 

PTV has also added a range of audio and/or visual alerts support the driver in hazardous situations, identifying different types of risk such as uphill or downhill stretches, uneven road surface, dangerous bends, crosswind or overhanging trees. Drivers can also set optimum speed for different types of road/street, and receive alerts if they encounter restrictions or bad weather, or exceed the speed limit.