LEADING European telematics providers have formed an alliance called ITDA (International Traffic Data Alliance). As from 2001, the new alliance intends to signal high quality traffic information across Europe, starting in Germany, France and the UK, via the RDS/TMC (Radio Data System/Traffic Message Channel).

The new broadcasting service can also send traffic information in type format on to the display of a car radio. This function links nearly all the navigation devices on the market.

The alliance - between Partner Cue, Mediamobile and Tegaron - creates a standard that:

  • Makes it possible to provide a high quality service for identical products for the European market.
  • Meets the demands of the car industry, which can then equip the European market with unified instruments and features.
  • Provides users with information beyond their country's borders.
  • Allows dynamic navigation throughout all of Europe.

    The first devices will be coming on to the market in 2001. In Germany and the UK, an additional module is available for the handheld computer 'Visor' which is made by Handspring. New RDS products - Capable Radio Devices - are being planned.

    Hans-Jurgen Hilgendorf, managing director of Tegaron Telematics, based in Bonn, described the service as a milestone in the history of telematics. He said: 'The new technology will provide traffic data and satisfy the growing demands for quality information from car drivers.'

    The alliance plans eventually to cover all of central Europe. (July 2000)