Here’s the official news we just received from Garmin:
Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced it has expanded its relationship with BMW Motorrad and the companies have developed the next generation BMW Motorrad Navigator, the Navigator IV, a motorcycle-friendly GPS navigator that is based on Garmin’s zūmo™ 660. The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV takes the best of Garmin’s navigation technology and adds exclusive, BMW specific features such as a customized mount, preloaded BMW dealer database, unique audio and Bluetooth handling capabilities, and more.
“Garmin and BMW are known within their respective industries for providing high-quality, high-end products with superior customer satisfaction and support,” said Roger Jollis, Garmin’s director of OEM and mobile marketing. “By equipping BMW motorcycles with the BMW Motorrad Navigator IV, riders can let the GPS device deliver spoken turn-by-turn instructions while they focus on the road and enjoy a worry-free ride.”
This portable, 4.3-inch navigator has a bright touchscreen display that is glove-friendly and comes preloaded with detailed street maps with millions of points of interest that include locations like restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, hotels and specific street addresses. After the rider selects a destination, the system calculates the best route and gives turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions to the final destination. This feature can also work with a compatible Bluetooth enabled helmet or headset. The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV’s stereo (A2DP) Bluetooth wireless technology makes it possible for riders to pair their phone to a Bluetooth enabled helmet or handset so that they can safely talk on the phone or listen to MP3’s without having to remove their gloves or helmet.
The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV comes with a BMW exclusive, four-button motorcycle mount that enables many quick-key functions for extra control and usability. The mount and GPS device are vibration-tested, waterproof (IEC 529 IPX-7 standards), and designed to withstand fuel sprays and UV rays.
While riding, it is easy to access trip information directly from the BMW Motorrad Navigator IV’s trip information page like speed, heading, altitude, and a customizable fuel gauge that can be modified to the motorcycle’s maximum fuel range. It also has sophisticated routing capabilities so that riders will never have to wonder if they are in the correct lane, because the device will guide them with arrows to the appropriate lane for approaching turns or exits. In some major metropolitan areas, surrounding buildings are displayed in a 3D transparent view.
If a rider wants to share rides with others or keep a detailed log of trips, it’s easy to do. Routes can be shared between Navigator IV units via Bluetooth, or by connecting the device to a computer and logging on to a free online community of routes specifically for motorcyclists. In addition, owners can also plan routes online through Google or MapQuest and send the routes or points of interest to the device before they begin their journey.
The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV is expected to be available in the third quarter from authorized BMW Motorrad retailers in North America and Europe.