Breakdown services provider AA has equipped its fleet of motorbikes with Garmin’s sat-nav technology zumo 550, to help its drivers reach their customers faster even while staying in constant contact with their team via the Autocom communications system.
Set up in 1905, the AA rescues motorists during breakdowns on their journeys. Currently, it has 15 million members throughout the UK. The AA fleet has 50 motorcycles, including Suzuki Bergman 650s, Vectrix Electric Scooters, Honda Silver Wings and Honda Deauvilles.
The AA looked for a sat-nav system that could be used in all weather. It has found that Garmin’s zumo is waterproof, rugged, UV and fuel resistant. Developed by bikers, zumo 550’s features include: glove-friendly touch screen with left-hand controls; motorcycle console for trip information, including fuel gauge; Bluetooth connectivity that enables users to talk over the phone hands-free and without removing their helmets.
The AA has first tested the sat-nav in London and found that the breakdown waiting time was reduced by up to 50%.
Giovanni Di Santo, fleet solutions business development manager for Garmin, said: The zumo’s practical design is combined with full European mapping to enable the AA fleet reach their destination safely in the fastest possible time. Garmin’s partnership with the AA is a great example of how GPS plays an integral part in all of our lives and can help us when we need it most.
Garmin develops navigation, communication and information devices and applications for the automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, and aviation sectors and OEM applications. Very recently, the company has acquired Sportmanship International, the distributor of Garmin’s consumer products in Sweden.
