Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd., today introduced the StreetPilot 2720, a premium GPS automotive navigator that offers text-to-speech and traffic interface capabilities.

In addition to the turn-by-turn voice prompted navigation available in earlier StreetPilot models, the 2720's text-to-speech functionality allows the unit to audibly announce the name of an upcoming street -- which lets drivers keep their eyes on the road while navigating through busy traffic and convoluted roadways.

Photo: http://www.garmin.com/products/sp2720/gallery/pt-sp272001a.jpg

For drivers in congested metropolitan areas, Garmin is offering the GTM 10, an optional FM RDS-TMC traffic receiver that receives digital information (where available) on traffic, road construction, and weather-related tie-ups. The GTM10 receives data from selected FM broadcast stations in select cities throughout the United States and Europe through Clear Channel. This optional feature lets drivers see congested areas via a color-coded map. When connected to the GTM 10, the StreetPilot 2720 uses this data to automatically calculate and suggest time-saving and fuel-saving routes.

The StreetPilot 2720 also boasts a new automotive-grade, sunlight- readable, high color touchscreen display that automatically adjusts the unit's backlight for optimum viewability in any amount of light. Drivers can view the map in either a three-dimensional perspective or a more traditional "bird's eye" view.

The StreetPilot 2720 comes preprogrammed with City Navigator(TM) North America v7 NT maps -- containing detailed road maps throughout the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. This map database features an industry-leading six million points of interest -- including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions.

Garmin has also added the ability for customers to augment the pre-loaded maps with Custom POI's from third parties such as school zones and safety cameras. In addition, a proximity alert feature is included to optionally notify the driver of upcoming Custom POI's. This feature is predicted to be popular in Europe and Asia because of the increasing use of safety cameras on roadways. This safety feature is designed to help reinforce the importance of traveling at appropriate and legal speeds.

In addition to point-to-point navigation, the StreetPilot 2720 can calculate the most efficient route between multiple destinations -- a real timesaver for realtors, sales forces, and errand-runners. Drivers can also tell the unit to avoid specific areas or road segments when calculating a route.

   Product specifications:

   * WAAS enabled, 12-parallel channel GPS patch antenna, with MCX-type
     connector for optional external antenna
   * Unit dimensions: 5.6" W x 3.2" H x 2.0" D
   * Display: 3.8" WQVGA, 454 x 240 pixels, touchscreen with automatically
     dimming backlight
   * Weight: .96 lbs.
   * Power: 12-volt adapter cable with external speaker

The StreetPilot 2720 is expected to be available in July 2005 for estimated retail price of $1099. The unit ships standard with City Navigator NT North America maps pre-loaded, a 12-volt power cable with external speaker, alphanumeric remote control, PC/USB interface cable, AC power adapter, beanbag mount, dash mount, owner's manual and quick reference setup guide.

Garmin recommends that customers visit an aftermarket automotive electronics dealer to install the GTM 10. Additionally, premium traffic management databases may require a subscription from a third-party data provider.

For more information, visit http://www.garmin.com