Driver information systems-a new market?

The author provides an overview of some of the key technological issues and market constraints affecting the growth of driver information and navigation systems in the short to medium term. He covers trends in relevant technologies, generic markets for driver information systems, technical constraints on product development, issues affecting user demand, directions of growth, and identifies some key aspects for further analysis. Two particular issues are raised. The first relates to the need to treat driver information systems as subscriber services, an issue not yet addressed by the on-board product suppliers, and the other notes the expected entry of hand-held navigation and communication products to the market