News release

No More Traffic Jams for Aprilia Motorcyclists Thanks to Compaq iPAQ Based Scout Navigation Systems

Bikers astride the famous Aprilia motorcycles can now immediately find the best roads thanks to a new motorcycle navigation system, the Aprilia Scout powered by Tegaron.

Tegaron Telematics, Bonn-based specialist subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler Services and the Deutsche Telekom Group, supplies complete telematics packs to both motorists and motorcyclists covering navigation, information, security and mobility.

The Aprilia offering, known as the SL 100 Falco Edition Scout, comprises a Compaq iPAQ™ Pocket PC, a Siemens mobile telephone and an earphone in a matching Falco Edition Tank rucksack. Anticipating a rapidly growing demand, Aprilia has signed a contract for 1,000 iPAQ Pocket PCs from Compaq's German subsidiary Compaq Computer GmbH.

The Tegaron Scout is the first true dynamic off-board navigation system. In contrast to conventional systems, which include map data on CD-ROMs in the vehicles, the Scout can access up-to-date road information, stored in a central computer, via mobile telephones and SMS.

Before the start of each journey, the motorcyclist enters his destination data into the iPAQ Pocket PC which transmits an SMS to the central Tegaron route server with a mobile telephone. Within a few seconds, information about the shortest or fastest route is returned from the central computer, again via SMS.

Four thousand DDG congestion detectors, installed on motorway bridges throughout Germany, supply the traffic data—giving a total dynamic overview and always reporting current traffic conditions. The Tegaron control room automatically calculates the route according to the up-to-the-minute traffic situation and, if required, constantly adapts it en route. The service is paid for per use.

Simple menu terms and a few precise tuning options simplify the use of the Scout. The driver enters the destination address and immediately receives a suggestion for the route. Even special destinations such as petrol stations or motorway service areas can be targeted. Orientation is easy. Clear symbols and route information show the way. In addition, an easily understood voice control informs the driver via an earphone when the travel direction changes.

Tegaron supplies a similar service for the dynamic Auto-Pilot-System, DynAPS, for MercedesBenz and for Audi.

About Compaq

Compaq Computer Corporation, a Fortune Global 100 company, is a leading global provider of technology and solutions. Compaq designs, develops, manufactures, and markets hardware, software, solutions, and services, including industry-leading enterprise computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, and communications products, commercial desktop and portable products, and consumer PCs that are sold in more than 200 countries. Information on Compaq and its products and services is available at http://www.compaq.com.