Garmin Redesigns Drive GPS With Ultra-Wide Display, EV Routing and Truck Pack

Both new versions use a high-resolution ultra-wide display with edge-to-edge glass. Garmin says the low-profile design is meant to be unobtrusive to the driver's line of sight while making it easier to see the route and upcoming road information at a glance. TechRadar reported that the new Drive is sleeker and crisper than Garmin's existing car navigation range, which includes the 5-inch Garmin Drive 53 and the 6-inch DriveSmart 66. The new models are designed to put more information into the driver's eye line without making the device taller or bulkier.

The new Drive is more connected than older basic satellite navigation systems, which often needed a SIM card for the latest traffic data. Drivers can select routes and destinations directly from the map, and voice commands and touch controls are available for navigation via a connected smartphone with data and the Garmin Drive app. The device can highlight upcoming traffic lights and stop signs and warn about sharp curves, speed-limit changes, school zones and other potential hazards. It also provides live traffic and weather information, allows users to search for and share points of interest, includes TripAdvisor ratings for hotels, restaurants and attractions, and can update maps and software over Wi-Fi.

For EV drivers, the biggest change is more detailed charging information. Garmin Drive can locate EV charging stations along a route, filter them by charging power and show live availability. For gasoline-powered cars, the connected Garmin Drive app can provide dynamic fuel prices.

Garmin has also increased the Drive's capabilities with optional packs for professional drivers and specialist motoring needs. The optional Truck and Camper Pack costs a one-time $149.99, £129.99 or around AU$208 and unlocks features for professional truck drivers and people traveling in campers, motorhomes and caravans. The pack adds routing based on a vehicle's height, weight, length and load, as well as warnings for steep grades, sharp curves and weight restrictions. It also adds high-resolution satellite imagery that can help drivers identify loading docks, truck entrances, security gates and campsites before they arrive. There is a dedicated directory of motorhome and caravan parks and services, plus a wind-speed overlay that can warn about potentially hazardous crosswind conditions. Truck drivers can also access Dēzl Community ratings to find preferred truck stops and parking locations.

TechRadar noted that the update comes despite the rise of Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and smartphone apps such as Waze and Here WeGo for navigation. The report said the standard Google Maps app does not account for large vehicles, although the company offers software developer kits for that kind of function and there are several dedicated route planners online for oversized vehicles. It also said there is an argument that Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze offer the same, if not more, functionality than Garmin's Drive unit. For people with older vehicles, or drivers who simply want a dedicated sat-nav or GPS device, the new Garmin Drive represents a sizable leap forward in design and technology, according to TechRadar.