Toyota helps avoid traffic jams

9 January 2002: Toyota in the UK has introduced an Electronic Traffic Avoidance option (ETA) on its 2002 Avensis models fitted with standard satellite navigation.

ETA is also available as an option on new Corolla in the UK and will be introduced to the rest of the Toyota range during 2002. ETA provides the driver with live traffic information which is fed into the satellite navigation system enabling the car to not only warn the driver of a traffic problem, but also to plot a way around jams or snarl ups even if the driver is a stranger to the area.

ETA receives coded traffic information 24 hours per day via an FM radio signal that is picked up even when the car radio is switched off. ETA decodes the messages to give the driver advanced warning of incidents and congestion. If the driver is following a route using the car’s satellite navigation system, ETA will automatically offer an ‘avoid traffic’ option and work out a new route around the traffic.

If the driver is not using the satellite navigation when the traffic warning is received, simply plotting a destination into the navigation system will trigger the ‘avoid traffic’ function and enable stress free re-routing around the problem before the driver encounters it. The standard fitment of this unique feature has increased the on-the-road price of GS, GLS and CDX grades by Stg£300.

GPS navigation systems are not yet available for Ireland because of a delay in producing the required digitised maps by commercial companies who provide these.

January 2002