Sony navigation system hears traffic reports

The Nav-U 712T portable navigation device (PND) from Sony combines a GPS receiver with real-time information on traffic from the RDS-TMC radio traffic network now operating in 49 U.S. cities. The combination allows it to dynamically calculate routes that take traffic congestion into account, or to automatically reroute a driver around a bottleneck, said Sony.

Other features of interest to fleet users include a database for all U.S. and Canadian roads stored on a 2GB resident flash memory, spoken directions through a built-in speaker tuned for voice and an interface designed to minimize driver inputs. It also has a new suction-cup mounting system that can be attached to irregular surfaces like a console as well as the windshield.

It should be noted that the map database does not include truck attributes and will not route vehicles around height, weight or other commercial-vehicle restrictions.

The suggested retail price for the Nav-U 71T is $499 including the map database and a 90-day trial subscription to the RDS-TMC traffic service.