Internavi

Internavi is a vehicle telematics service offered by the Honda Motor Company to drivers in Japan.

One of the features offered is the ability to overlay weather information on the in-car map screen in 3D.

The following is a description of the various elements that comprise Honda's "Internavi" information service, including integration of the Japanese governments nationally offered service VICS, or Vehicle Information and Communication System Press release for Internavi introduction The technology is dependent on the user's cell phone service, and uses the data download plan associated with the users account.

The identified route also takes into consideration all currently known traffic and local transportation issues that may affect the plotted course from the VICS center, which is updated every five minutes based on reports from various sources.

As travel begins towards the destination, any updated conditions are instantly relayed to the vehicle in real time.

Vehicles installed with previous internal maps utilizing a DVD are not given updated traffic conditions.

This feature can be deactivated by the driver if position and speed of the individual vehicle does not want to be transmitted, however by doing so, road conditions can not be shared unless the tracking system is activated.

The Member ID and password issued at the time of admission, which provides a personal home page in conjunction with the car navigation features.

Older vehicles that were not sold with Internavi installed, but were compatible with the technology can be retrofitted with the system by visiting any Honda dealer, or by visiting "Honda Access" accessories retailers and have Internavi installed.

In Japan, an automobile parts retail chain called "Autobacs" sells an in-dash navigation system built by Honda called "Gathers" that is compatible with the Internavi technology, and can install the equipment into any vehicle.

Previous navigation technology that uses either DVD loaded maps or use a Hard Disk Drive may be compatible with Internavi.

In addition, the DVD navigation system installed in the JDM Honda MDX can be upgraded and made compatible with Internavi.

In Japan, telecom company WILLCOM offers flat-rate telecommunications services, depending on the type of third generation mobile navigation what can be connected directly to telephone or cable for in home use on personal computers.