TomTom has launched a new Audio Traffic personalized information system as an Application Programming Interface (API) for developers, and expanded its On-Street Parking service across Europe.
Although personalized traffic information is one of the most requested features by daily commuters driving known routes, they do not necessarily want to use turn-by-turn navigation systems that typically includes traffic information about the route ahead.
TomTom’s Audio Traffic solves this problem by delivering an accurate traffic news bulletin that is relevant to the specific route that is being driven. Because it’s delivered via voice, it removes the problems of distracted driving, as users can keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
The Audio Traffic system was developed in conjunction with Duel, an Italian provider of smart multimedia applications, and uses data taken from TomTom’s Live Traffic service. Using the API, developers can easily integrate it into popular applications including music streaming services, internet radio, voice assistants and in-car infotainment systems.
Ralf-Peter Schäfer, VP of traffic and travel at TomTom, noted, “Available in English, German, French, Italian and Dutch, our new Audio Traffic service is the next generation of radio traffic bulletins, offering an incredible opportunity for companies that want to capture the ears of the driver.”
TomTom’s On-Street Parking vacant space location service has been expanded and is now available for 100 cities in Europe, marking a major milestone for the offering. The predictive service uses advanced analytics to provide drivers with the probability of finding a parking space on the street, as well as the average search-time. The system supports parking probabilities across cities, including locations where parking costs are free.
This provides a distinct advantage to services based on parking payment transactions, which provide a narrow, imprecise view that limits their results to specific geographies and roadways. This leaves better-placed, free parking locations unaccounted for. On-Street Parking complements the company’s existing Off-Street Parking information service for parking garages and lots.
Schäfer noted, “Our On-Street Parking service offers drivers peace of mind and a less-stressful parking experience, in addition to helping them save time and money. With 100 of the most important European cities now covered, we’re helping to improve urban mobility.”
Since its launch, the On-Street Parking service has been recognized with the Automotive Innovation Award at the AIA in February 2017, as well as the TechXLR8 award for Innovation in Mobility Services at London Tech Week in June 2017.
