Becker Crocodile and Z 201

GPS device maker Becker today provided full details of two GPS units that have been part of its demo at the IFA technology show. The Crocodile earns its name through a tire-tread like rubber housing that protects it against impacts, improves its water resistance and also makes for better grip. Motorcycle riders in particular should find it useful versus more fragile units, Becker argues.

The 4.3-inch widescreen navigator also promises route plotting and has a 3D mode that covers both landmarks and terrain details in the extra dimension. Lane assist, traffic warnings and direct text-to-speech voice directions also put it on top of most GPS entries. A 2GB SD card also gives it truer roaming with maps for 42 different countries. Becker ships the Crocodile in October for €300 ($437) but hasn't said which countries outside of its native Germany will receive the new GPS unit.

The Z 201 Berlin provides the same navigation features as the Crocodile but drops the extra-rugged exterior for a smaller but more fragile exterior designed for cars, where the Crocodile's advantages are reduced. It comes bundled with a car mount kit and should carry a smaller €250 price ($364) when it arrives at the same time as its rubberized equivalent.

By Electronista Staff