Pioneer Electronics today announced the launch of the AVIC-9DVD, the company's first DVD-based navigation system for the U.S. and Canada. The DVD-based navigation system has exclusive features such as real-time traffic information and DVD video playback capability.

Pioneer's new navigation system demonstrates the increased speed and improved performance offered in the DVD format. The AVIC-9DVD features an 8.5 GB dual layer DVD-ROM that stores a detailed map of the U.S. and Canada on a single disc. The system runs 10 times faster than conventional CD-ROM-based navigation systems and provides instantaneous re-routing when guidance is not followed. It also includes a built-in 3D Hybrid Sensor, an exclusive technology to provide more accurate positioning.

``The Pioneer DVD navigation system can route the user to any destination in the country within seconds,'' said Keith Burnett, vice president of Marketing at Pioneer Mobile Entertainment. ``Our goal was to design a navigation system that is practical and easy to use. By offering applicable functions such as real-time traffic and DVD video playback, the AVIC-9DVD offers consumers unique features not available in other navigation systems.''

A new technology that has been implemented into the AVIC-9DVD is the built-in 3D Hybrid Sensor, which is used as an altitude correction device. The 3D Hybrid Sensor allows the navigation system to monitor all three dimensions of the vehicle: height (up/down), speed (distance) and direction (left/right). The sensor acts as an inclinometer, sensing and correcting distance errors to provide pinpoint accuracy while the system's algorithm detects areas such as tunnels and multi-level parking structures.

Key Features of the AVIC-9DVD:
- Voice Recognition - enhanced voice control interface. This system allows easy verbal input of commonly used commands to simplify operation and enhance driver safety.
- Traffic Information - real-time traffic using the CUE Radio Network System (optional) which can re-route the user around traffic situations. Receive traffic information, weather and news information using icons through the CUE receiver and service.
- Video Playback - integrate into the vehicle's audio/video system to function as a DVD video playback and CD audio source.
- Quick Routing - calculates six routes at a time giving the user the ability to select a preferred route. Options include Fastest (time priority), Shortest (distance priority), Alternative Route, Fastest Time Avoiding Freeway, Shortest Distance Avoiding Freeway and Alternative Avoiding Freeway.
- Search Modes - methods to seek destinations through the navigation system. Options include using addresses, points of interest (POI), vicinity, destination, registered point and telephone number search.
- Screen Graphics - simplified graphics system with three screen backgrounds that change as the user moves from menu to menu. "Main and Searching" contains a road and skyscraper background, "Setting" has an image of gears and "Information" has a vehicle in the background. There are also four graphical guidance modes, "Driver's View," "Map Mode," "Arrow Main Mode" and "Map Main Mode."
- PC Card Slot - allows for future upgrades as they become available.


The Pioneer AVIC-9DVD is currently available through authorized Pioneer retailers at a suggested retail price of $2000.