Panasonic (News - Alert) Automotive Systems Company of America and Garmin International have agreed to collaborate on OEM automotive projects targeting various vehicle manufacturers. According to the agreement, the two companies will jointly create customized navigation products for the global automotive industry.

Vince Sarrecchia, president, Panasonic Automotive Systems Company of America, said in a press release, “As electronics and onboard navigation continue to play an ever-growing role in the automobile, Panasonic and Garmin will seek to create additional value for their customers, and ultimately consumers, through the use of superior technology resulting in product developments that provide ease-of-use and added sophistication. As a category leader in several markets, including automotive, recreation and aviation, Garmin brings a rich and diverse background to our collaborative efforts.”

Although both companies will jointly work on select OEM programs, they will continue in their independent initiatives also. Through their joint effort, they will provide increased value to automakers and provide a greater driving experience for consumers. Panasonic is an award winning, leading global supplier of OEM audio, video, navigation and information products and systems. Garmin provides GPS-enabled products and other navigation, communications and information products.

Recognized for their innovation and for the intuitive user interface, Garmin automotive products helps drivers arrive at their destination effortlessly while getting the most out of the journey. The company believes that the agreement to collaborate with an industry leading OEM supplier strengthens its growing position as a recognized provider to the automotive industry. Garmin is a leader in consumer and general aviation navigation and its products serve the automotive/mobile, outdoor/fitness, marine, and aviation markets. The company is a member of the Garmin Ltd. group of companies which designs, manufactures, markets, and sells navigation, communication and information devices and applications -- most of which are enabled by GPS technology.

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Raju Shanbhag is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To see more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.

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