2011 CES: Garmin introduces new Dezl 560LT, 560LMT GPS navigators for truckers

Garmin introduced a new Dezl (pronounced "diesel") GPS navigator for truckers at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) this past week. The Dezl devices are loaded with truck-specific points of interest, hours tracking, fuel and mileage logging, truck speed limits, and the National Truck & Trailer Services (NTTS) Breakdown Directory—a guide to 30,000 semi-truck repair facilities in the United States and Canada. The log information can be exported to aid fleet management, expense tracking, and for submitting the quarterly International Fuel Tax Agreement Documentation (IFTA), applicable to some commercial drivers.

There are two models: the Dezl 560LT with lifetime traffic and the Dezl 560LMT with lifetime traffic and map updates. Both five-inch devices provide spoken street names in their directions, with routes informed by live traffic information, historical data, and truck restrictions based on the user's profile. Other features include reality view, lane assist, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling. Plus, the Dezls remember frequent destinations and can learn to predict your intended destination and provide related assistance.

Points of interest can be rated, and those ratings can be shared when the unit is connected to a computer. Exit services can be searched for truck stops, food, lodging, rest area, and weigh stations. The truck stop listings itemize available services, such as showers and WiFi.

While the Dezls are designed to be truck specific, they have modes for car and RV use, as well.

The Dezl 560LT retails for $470 and the Dezl 560LTM retails for a Peterbilt-scale $530. They will be on sale early 2011. —Jeff Bartlett