Siemens VDO has introduced it's truck navigation system currently on the market in Europe, and coming to the USA soon. It will be offered on the Cobra navigation systems.
Quote:
The system's operating software has been adapted so that its recommended routes take into account the vehicle's specific characteristics, such as height, width, weight, axle loads, hazardous materials class, and matches it with clearance heights, bridge weight restrictions, truck-prohibited roads, etc.
When setting his destination, the driver first enters his truck's vehicle-specific data. On the basis of this information, the navigation system only selects routes that present fewer problems for the vehicle. Also shown are such points of interest as truck stops, trucker-friendly resturants and service stations. A special reciever provides traffic information and can suggest an alternative route in case of congestion.
I'm using a DeLorme laptop program, and a new Garmin stand alone. Both are civilian based...so not really all that practical for a Trucker...but still a handy aid, long as you know how much is benificial.The system's operating software has been adapted so that its recommended routes take into account the vehicle's specific characteristics, such as height, width, weight, axle loads, hazardous materials class, and matches it with clearance heights, bridge weight restrictions, truck-prohibited roads, etc.
When setting his destination, the driver first enters his truck's vehicle-specific data. On the basis of this information, the navigation system only selects routes that present fewer problems for the vehicle. Also shown are such points of interest as truck stops, trucker-friendly resturants and service stations. A special reciever provides traffic information and can suggest an alternative route in case of congestion.
PC Miler is also offering a program through Sprint (Nextel) cell phones, and I think the data can be streamed to your laptop.
At least the GPS industry is catching up to speed....and heading in the right direction. :lol: :?