Navigation Technologies, a provider of digital map data for vehicle navigation, Internet/wireless and business applications, announced Feb. 19 that 8 car models introduced navigation systems for the first time in the second half of the 2001 calendar year. Each model features Navtech data, which currently powers all U.S. automotive navigation systems, according to the company.

Joining 43 models already offering navigation, the models newly featuring Navtech data include the Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS300, Lexus ES300, Lincoln Blackwood, Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Nissan Maxima, Oldsmobile Aurora, and Toyota Camry.

To ensure accuracy, Navigation Technologies Field Analysts drive the roads, verifying information for the Navtech database, according to Navigation Technologies. This in-depth "human factor" delivers data consistent with real world conditions and results in a multi-faceted product. From turn restrictions to relative road heights, every road segment has up to 150 data attributes such as turn restrictions, one-way streets and speed categories that help optimize routes. Additionally, the Navtech database includes Points of Interests (POI) in 45 categories including banks, hospitals, shopping centers and recreation areas.

"Every in-vehicle navigation system in the U.S. relies on Navtech digital map data because of its comprehensive accuracy and detail," said John MacLeod, executive vice president North America & World Markets Navigation Technologies. "This fleet of automobiles clearly speaks to a growing consumer demand for navigation systems that continues to escalate each year."

"With Navigation Technologies' relentless efforts to expand coverage and include road network data down to the smallest detail, Navtech data is truly the clear choice for high quality and accurate automotive navigation," said Larry Haddad corporate manager, product planning at Nissan North America. "We depend on Navtech as the source for mapping data in all Infiniti and Nissan navigation systems."

About Navigation Technologies

Navigation Technologies creates the digital map data that powers navigation and location-based services around the world. The Chicago-based company was founded in 1985 and is privately held. The companies' 1,100 employees are in over 100 offices in 18 countries.