The world first map-type navigation system installed to the cars was introduced by Honda in 1981. Development started in mid 70s. Although there is no electronic maps existing on the market as well as GPS, Honda built it using the principle of “Direction & Distance”.
Instead of electronic maps, the device was working with map sheets. Using an area map user setup a destination where he wants to go and the current position, then, using a combination of car speed sensor, gyroscope, and microcomputer the system was calculating current position and the distance passed since started, so it was showing the way towards the final stop.
That’s truly amazing.
