Earlier this week, we had a press release from BMW with some details on their new ConnectedRide Navigator. This touchscreen navigation unit is made to drop-in install on a range of late-model BMW adventure bikes, and some readers had questions. Well, we asked BMW some of those questions, and here are the replies from their comms department:
ADVrider:Does the new ConnectedRide Navigator require a connection with a smartphone to store maps for offline usage via the BMW Motorrad app? For instance: If I’m riding beyond mobile coverage in the Sahara, do I need to pre-download the maps to my phone, and then keep that phone connected to the Navigator? Or are the maps stored on the Navigator device itself?
BMW:The navigator is a standalone device that does not require an additional smartphone. Hence the navigator has its own online connections and map management. Maps have to be downloaded and stored in the navigator’s internal storage in advance to be available for offline navigation.
ADVrider:新闻发布会上说:“用户可以实时访问traffic information by connecting the Navigator to a WiFi hotspot or through their customer-installed SIM card. This feature ensures that riders stay informed while on the road.”I presume this means the rider must create a WiFi hotspot (not Bluetooth) with their phone, then connect to the Navigator, for real-time traffic?
BMW:Yes that is correct, by using a smartphone the customer can use the existing smartphone data plan also for the Navigator, this is the easiest and most convenient way to bring the navigator online. In addition customers can also put a data only SIM card into the device to ensure more flexibility. For downloading big loads of data like maps or system updates the navigator can also go online via a stationary WiFi at home or a public hotspot in a hotel etc.
ADVrider:Why not offer all this functionality through the GS’s TFT screen?
BMW:That’s not that simple, navigation requires a lot of complexity etc. on the software and hardware of the bikes. We are convinced that we have an ideal solution for navigation needs with the new BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide Navigator.
ADVrider:What will pricing be for the US and Canadian markets?
BMW:Canada: 1.310,04 CAD plus tax
USA:1.130,00 USD plus tax
