Sat Nav must have ups value

Satellite navigation as a factory fitted option is the current automotive must have. Not really anything new there you might think – but this trend has gradually moved from the luxury end of the market to become a desirable addition to vehicles in the lower markets.

“We’re finding sat nav fitted to an increasing number of types of vehicle that come through our de-fleet centre here in Corby and buyers are prepared to pay more for a vehicle which is fitted with the technology,” explains Roger Woodward, Managing Director of vehicle re-marketing specialists, Cars Direct.

Companies see the fitment of such technology as a benefit as drivers are no longer at risk of losing their way, and are therefore more efficient, while drivers seem to like having extra toys to make their journeys easier. In addition to this, recent findings have identified that theft of satellite navigation systems from cars is becoming increasingly common. A further benefit with factory fitted units is the reduced risk of thieves breaking into a vehicle as the unit is not as easily stolen as a retrofit equivalent.

Coupled to the growth in popularity of in-car navigation technologies is the phenomenon which has seen a rise in the number of vehicles fitted with dash mounted TV receivers as a further add on.

Woodward continues: “Many drivers now consider sat nav as a need instead of a wanted addition. As car companies increase the levels of technology being fitted in vehicles more and more ‘bells and whistles’ are being offered. Drivers are being persuaded by these new technologies and ticking extra boxes on their order forms. We have noticed that there are a significant number of vehicles coming through our sales fitted with TV receivers in addition to the regular satellite navigation. While these desirable options can add up to £1,000 on to the list price of the vehicle when new, the residual values for a vehicle with ‘standard’ sat nav and one with the TV option are minimal at best.”