June/July 2008

All UK satellite navigation systems could one day be subject to the same regulatory regime as current 'dynamic' systems (those gathering roadside and similar information about traffic conditions).

This is possibly the most controversial idea to emerge from an otherwise low-key Department for Transport report on a satnav consultation process conducted during the past year. The rationale for the idea, which is merely on the agenda for possible consideration, is that it would put so-called 'static' satnav and dynamic satnav systems on an even footing.

In the short report, the DfT mentions various other ideas for consideration, including a code of practice on design, routing and safe use of satnav systems.

It also suggests a need for improving communications between local authorities, mapping companies, manufacturers and users to raise satnav standards overall. And it mentions the idea of an official 'star rating' system to provide clear information to the public on the safety of what it calls IVIS devices (standing for In Vehicle Information Systems).

The report highlights the fact that most complaints about satnav seem to concern trucks being directed over inappropriate routes, and it expresses the hope that more truck-specific satnav systems will emerge. It recognises, however, that such systems are not yet widely available, and could be more expensive than car-based systems because of the extra information they need.

The report mentions a proposal that truck satellite navigation should be complemented by a published list of roads unsuitable for HGVs, to be maintained by DfT, but points out that this 'would be an onerous and expensive task. ' However, it adds that such data could be maintained 'through any standard LA-mapping company communications framework which is established in the future'.

One interesting finding was that few respondents seemed aware, in the report's words, that 'although there are a myriad of guidance systems, there are just two companies directly involved in providing map information for them.' (Presumably it means Navteq and Tele Atlas.) It raises the possibility that Ordnance Survey's data height, width and weight restriction information could be brought into play more actively in this context.

Overall, the findings of the consultation are inconclusive, and the report's writers acknowledge that the response rate was 'surprisingly low'. Its mention of possible regulation for satnav therefore seems largely speculative, and not a reflection of any known short- or even medium-term policy intent.

Moreover, the findings seem to have been reached before the emergence of several commercially- available truck-specific satnav systems, which has followed from the release last year of the Navteq Transport dataset and Tele Atlas's rival offering.

The report's parting comment is that the Department 'intends to investigate a number of options as potential routes for further action.'

* In-vehicle information systems initial consultation: summary of responses is available on the DfT Web site. See www.FollowUpOnline.net for the rather long URL.