Honda Navigation System Offers Earthquake and Weather Warnings

Honda Motor's navigation systems already map out the quickest route to a destinaton, how to avoid traffic jams, and so on.

The carmaker's nav system will also provide information on earthquakes and weather warnings, such as heavy rain or snow fall.

The service is free…BUT…drivers must pay mobile phone fees for relaying data.

Users, about 530,000 of them or 40% of Honda owners, pay about 1,000 yen ($8) a month.

Cars that are approaching an earthquake hit region will receive an email to a preset address.

Warnings about snow and rain will be sent/received as well.

Drivers are able to save up to 20% of driving time says Honda with their navigation system.

Other features of Japanese car navigation systems – guides to local restaurants and automatically calling

an ambulance in the event of an accident.

But..when will the thing be able to drive a drunk salaryman home? That's what we really need.

There are no plans for the system overseas yet.