Timpo
01-11-2013, 05:47 AM
Honda's 1981 In-Car Navigator is Seriously Old School
Honda Worldwide | History (http://world.honda.com/history/challenge/1981navigationsystem/index.html)
GPS navigation devices have grown over the last several years to many affordable units readily available to any willing consumer. However, did you know that navigation devices were available as early as 1981.
Back in 1981 Honda offered a “non-satellite-guided system." According to GrandJDM, You choose a plastic map from the guide book, insert it into the machine, place an "X" on your current position and then a gas gyroscope measures the car's movement, plotting your course.
This handy device retailed for around $2-3k when it was released in 1981. Sadly, the machine was attached to the Accord which only retailed for around $8,000 that year.
http://www.gpsmagazine.com/assets/honda_81_nav_450-op.jpg
http://s1.aecdn.com/images/gallery/medium/HONDAAccord4Doors-medium-2971_1.jpg
Honda Worldwide | History (http://world.honda.com/history/challenge/1981navigationsystem/index.html)
GPS navigation devices have grown over the last several years to many affordable units readily available to any willing consumer. However, did you know that navigation devices were available as early as 1981.
Back in 1981 Honda offered a “non-satellite-guided system." According to GrandJDM, You choose a plastic map from the guide book, insert it into the machine, place an "X" on your current position and then a gas gyroscope measures the car's movement, plotting your course.
This handy device retailed for around $2-3k when it was released in 1981. Sadly, the machine was attached to the Accord which only retailed for around $8,000 that year.
http://www.gpsmagazine.com/assets/honda_81_nav_450-op.jpg
http://s1.aecdn.com/images/gallery/medium/HONDAAccord4Doors-medium-2971_1.jpg