Pioneer Launches DVD Navigation, Traffic Information and DVD Video Playback in One Package

Pioneer Launches New Multi-Functional DVD Navigation System; Navigation, Traffic Information and DVD Video Playback in One Package

    LONG BEACH, Calif., July 9 Pioneer Electronics
, the established leader in car electronics products, today
announced the launch of the AVIC-9DVD, the company's first DVD-based
navigation system for the U.S. and Canada.  The DVD-based navigation system
has exclusive features such as real-time traffic information and DVD video
playback capability.
    Pioneer's new navigation system demonstrates the increased speed and
improved performance offered in the DVD format.  The AVIC-9DVD features an
8.5 GB dual layer DVD-ROM that stores a detailed map of the U.S. and Canada on
a single disc.  The system runs 10 times faster than conventional CD-ROM-based
navigation systems and provides instantaneous re-routing when guidance is not
followed.  It also includes a built-in 3D Hybrid Sensor, an exclusive
technology to provide more accurate positioning.
    "The Pioneer DVD navigation system can route the user to any destination
in the country within seconds," said Keith Burnett, vice president of
Marketing at Pioneer Mobile Entertainment.  "Our goal was to design a
navigation system that is practical and easy to use.  By offering applicable
functions such as real-time traffic and DVD video playback, the AVIC-9DVD
offers consumers unique features not available in other navigation systems."
    A new technology that has been implemented into the AVIC-9DVD is the
built-in 3D Hybrid Sensor, which is used as an altitude correction device.
The 3D Hybrid Sensor allows the navigation system to monitor all three
dimensions of the vehicle: height (up/down), speed (distance) and direction
(left/right).  The sensor acts as an inclinometer, sensing and correcting
distance errors to provide pinpoint accuracy while the system's algorithm
detects areas such as tunnels and multi-level parking structures.

    Key Features of the AVIC-9DVD:
    --  Voice Recognition - enhanced voice control interface.  This system
        allows easy verbal input of commonly used commands to simplify
        operation and enhance driver safety.
    --  Traffic Information - real-time traffic using the CUE Radio Network
        System (optional) which can re-route the user around traffic
        situations.  Receive traffic information, weather and news information
        using icons through the CUE receiver and service.
    --  Video Playback - integrate into the vehicle's audio/video system to
        function as a DVD video playback and CD audio source.
    --  Quick Routing - calculates six routes at a time giving the user the
        ability to select a preferred route.  Options include Fastest (time
        priority), Shortest (distance priority), Alternative Route, Fastest
        Time Avoiding Freeway, Shortest Distance Avoiding Freeway and
        Alternative Avoiding Freeway.
    --  Search Modes - methods to seek destinations through the navigation
        system.  Options include using addresses, points of interest (POI),
        vicinity, destination, registered point and telephone number search.
    --  Screen Graphics - simplified graphics system with three screen
        backgrounds that change as the user moves from menu to menu.  "Main
        and Searching" contains a road and skyscraper background, "Setting"
        has an image of gears and "Information" has a vehicle in the
        background.  There are also four graphical guidance modes, "Driver's
        View," "Map Mode," "Arrow Main Mode" and "Map Main Mode."
    --  PC Card Slot - allows for future upgrades as they become available.

    The Pioneer AVIC-9DVD is currently available through authorized Pioneer
retailers at a suggested retail price of $2000.  To find the closest retailer,
visit http://www.pioneerelectronics.com or call 1-800-PIONEER.

    About Pioneer
    Pioneer Corporation is a leader in optical disc technology and a
preeminent manufacturer of high-performance audio, video and computer
equipment for the home, car and industrial markets.  Its Vision 2005 business
plan focuses on four core business domains including DVD, display
technologies, Digital Network Entertainment(TM) and components.  Founded in
1938 in Tokyo, Pioneer Corporation employs more than 29,000 people worldwide.
Its shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol
PIO.  Pioneer's U.S. headquarters is located in Long Beach, Calif., and its
U.S. Web address is http://www.pioneerelectronics.com.