Garmin PNDs Evolve to Driver Safety Devices

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Garmin DriveSmart PNDs

Garmin is introducing a line of portable navigation devices (PNDs) that also perform driver safety functions including crash warning notification.

The new Garmin Drive line includes four new models.

The basic Garmin Drive model has preloaded data from Foursquare points of interest to add access to millions of popular stores and restaurants. It also uses Garmin’s Real Directions that guides drivers by using  landmarks and traffic lights, not just street names. It also allows drivers to tap the screen to modify a route to include preferred roads.

The step-up Garmin DriveSmart has similar features but adds smart notification so drivers can display text messages and calls on the navigation screen. You can also get voice activated navigation and Bluetooth for handsfree calling plus real time live traffic and weather through a smartphone app.

Garmin DriveAssist includes a built-in dash cam with microSD card for early crash warning notification and lane departure warnings. A new “Go” Alert feature uses the dash cam to alert a distracted driver when traffic ahead begins to move.

The Garmin DriveLuxe has a stylized metal case with a magnetic mount and HD Digital Traffic—the fastest traffic solution from Garmin–with traffic updates every 30 seconds.

All the above devices can be paired with a backup camera or a babyCam. They will be available in different screen sizes Q1 at suggested retail prices from $129.99 to $349.99.

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