Navigation Technologies Corp. on Sept. 17 announced a 3.56 million-mile upgrade of NAVTECH(R) digital map data. The company already produces what it says is the most widely-used digital map database in the world. This upgrade delivers full coverage of 5.3 million miles of roadway in the continental U.S. NAVTECH says its data is currently harnessed by all U.S. automotive navigation systems, seven of 10 European car brands and the majority of leading Internet, Wireless and PDA (personal digital assistant) digital map applications from MapQuest and Microsoft Expedia to Garmin's Street Pilot. Existing automotive partners offering in-vehicle navigation systems include Acura, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Honda, Infiniti, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Porsche, Toyota and Volvo. "In anticipation of rapid growth in both vehicle navigation and location-based services, Navigation Technologies has invested significant company resources in the expansion of North American coverage," said John MacLeod, executive vice president, North America and World Markets, Navigation Technologies. "As a result of this expansion, NAVTECH data will enable a digital view of the entire continental U.S. that includes the detailed city coverage we're already known for providing. This advance means vehicle, GIS, fleet enterprise and Internet, wireless and PDA markets can now offer comprehensive routing and navigation systems to consumers and businesses alike." "This enhancement of the NAVTECH database will allow us to provide even better coverage for the DVD navigation systems we offer in Honda and Acura vehicles," said Dan Bonawitz, vice president, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "With 100 percent coverage, our marketing potential greatly increases as does customer satisfaction." "Garmin is committed to be best in class in everything we do," said Dr. Min H. Kao, co-CEO, Garmin Ltd. "Accurate and detailed coverage of the North American road network is an essential product feature that has allowed Garmin to sustain high customer satisfaction, brand loyalty and product utility levels with consumers. Navigation Technologies' established position as a leader in digital road data will be significantly advanced with the release of their new continental U.S. nationwide coverage product." The nationwide continental U.S. coverage now contains more than 1 million miles of field verified data, including more than 290,000 turn restrictions, 170,000 highway signs, and 267,000 miles of one-way information, all necessary for accurate and optimal route planning. 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 company's 1,200 employees are in more than 100 offices in 18 countries. For more information, visit www.navtech.com or for more information, send an email to mservice@chi.navtech.com.