Satellite Navigation Research findings
Amsterdam, 14 February 2007 – Leading Dutch research institute TNO today announced the results of research which prove the positive influence of satellite navigation devices on driving and traffic safety. The study was commissioned by Aon, Athlon Car Lease, Delta Lloyd (part of Aviva Plc)
Key findings:
• The use of a Sat Nav device improves the
driver’s behavior when driving through an unknown area to an
unknown destination;
• The use of satellite navigation system heightens alertness
and reduces the stress levels of the driver;
• Drivers who do NOT have the use of a Sat Nav
solution have 12% more damage claims to their vehicles;
• The use of a Snooper satellite navigation solution reduces
the amount of miles driven by 16%;
• The use of a satellite navigation solution reduces travel
time when driving through an unknown area to an unknown
destination by 18%;
• The use of a Sat Nav solution reduces the
workload (the amount of effort it takes the driver to drive)
of the driver when travelling through an unknown area to an
unknown destination.
Alexander Ribbink, chief operating officer, commented: “We have always designed our products with safety as a key priority. All our tests have always proven that our products act as a genuine aid to driving. This independent research now strengthens this. Sat Nav owners benefit from increased awareness, a reduced workload, less stress, less time and distance travelled in getting to their destination. On top of that there are clear environmental and economic benefits. All in all, we provide drivers with the ability to keep their eyes on the road and get from A to B as safely and efficiently as possible”.
Improvement of driving behavior
The research showed that when a driver uses a satellite
navigation solution they stop 25% less frequently and are
stationary for 35% less time. Satellite navigation solutions
also reduce the number of turns required to get to the
destination compared to conventional navigation tools, such
as paper maps or online route planners. What is also shown
is that driving behavior has improved, with over 50% fewer
inappropriate actions, such as ignoring traffic signs. The
driver can focus on driving rather than finding the way.
More alert and less stressed behind the wheel
The research showed that satellite navigation solutions
heighten the alertness of drivers and provide them with an
improved attention span, whilst also reducing stress. 78% of
users have the feeling that they have everything under
control when using a Snooper satellite navigation solution.
They are more alert behind the wheel and more conscious of
traffic behind them.
Less workload
The research proves that the workload of drivers is reduced
when using a satellite navigation solution. The workload is
20% less when driving with a Snooper satellite navigation
solution and involved less exertion. Driving while using
conventional navigation tools, such as maps and digital
Internet route planners, proved to present a more intense
workload.
Reduction of mileage
The research proved that the amount of kilometers driven
when using a satellite navigation solution is reduced by
16%. Time spent travelling is reduced by 18%. Because fewer
kilometers are driven, petrol is saved which is beneficial
for both the car driver and the environment.
Reduction in frequency of insurance claims
The research proves that lease drivers who do NOT have
satellite navigation make 12% more damage claims than those
who do have satellite navigation.
About the research
There were three elements used to determine the answer to
the central question “What are the effects of navigation
systems on traffic safety?”: a user survey; damage database
analysis; and test drives. The research programmed was
conducted in The Netherlands over a six month period and was
completed in December 2006. The generic findings of this
study prove that satellite navigation solutions have a
positive effect on traffic safety.
