China Satellite Telecommunications (China Satcom), one of the country's six major telecom carriers, announced yesterday the introduction of a special satellite navigation service for automobiles.
The company says it hopes the new service will cultivate a new business area and expand its domestic market share. Named "Kuaiyixing," which means quick and easy traveling, the service has been developed by Zhonghuan Satellite Navigation and Communications Company (ZSNCC), which is controlled by China Satcom.
By integrating an electronic device into an automobile, Satcom says that drivers can receive route navigation, real time traffic information and DVD programs as well as music, multi-media services and information.
Currently, the products mainly targets medium- and high-end customers with the devices priced around 15,000 yuan (US$1,800) per unit.