A new satnav system that alerts lorry drivers when they're approaching cyclist hotspots in London has been developed by software experts at Letchworth-based GPS company Navevo, based on official data provided by Transport for London (TfL). The device is programmed to flag up 100 different locations.
Ian Wainwright, Head of Freight and Fleet at TfL, said that the new system will increase the safety of cyclists on the capital's roads.
“For many years London has worked to lead the way in pushing for the adoption of safer lorries and safer lorry driving,” he said. “The creation of a specific cyclist alert for HGV drivers is another positive step forward and will help improve cycle safety across the capital.”
Navevo is said to be planning on expanding the service to include other cities in the future.
In a release issued on 17 April, Navevo said the alert would be supplied as standard on the new ProNav system for HGV drivers and would soon be rolled out across all current ProNav systems.
“In recognition of the growing number of cyclists in London and the safety risks that arise when HGVs are traversing busy London junctions and interchanges, ProNav’s HGV Cyclist Alert is designed to notify drivers of high HGV/Cyclist convergence areas and prompt them to take extra care,” said the company.
Its CEO Nick Caesari added: “A navigation system is something a driver is likely to be listening to as they approach a junction and so it makes perfect sense to also alert the driver of the risk of cyclists, reminding them to be observant and drive safely. The safety of drivers, cyclists and other users of the road is a concern for everybody and we are proud to lead the navigation industry by launching this world’s-first safety feature, which we believe could significantly contribute in improving road safety and reducing the number of incidents involving HGVs and cyclists.”