New satellite technology helps lost rental car travelersMarch 19, 1998Web posted at: 3:57 p.m. EDT (1557 GMT) (CNN) -- From airphones on planes to Internet access in hotels, the information age is revolutionizing the travel industry. Even car rental companies are trying their hands at technology, using new Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to help lost travelers. Consisting of an on-board computer that links directly to a satellite, the system gives directions once a destination has been logged in. "The first time you use a GPS system, the technology wows you," said CNN business travel consultant Chris McGinnis. It also keeps track of the vehicle's progress -- but the system isn't foolproof. During a recent demonstration with Hertz in Miami, the company's Never-Lost system got confused by an uncharted construction site. "It doesn't know that the road's closed but that's OK because I do," said Hertz representative Bob O'Day.And when CNN asked Avis for a run-through of its satellite guidance system, it failed to operate correctly in two cars. Even so, both companies say the new technology is worthwhile. "The customer reaction has been overwhelmingly positive," said O'Day. "We have almost an equal number of customers -- leisure versus business customers -- that use the Never-Lost unit." Hertz has greatly expanded the service and now offers Never-Lost in 35 U.S. metropolitan areas. It's available on many mid-size and luxury cars for an additional $6 a day. Avis is testing its GPS system only in Florida. The cost is also $6 a day, which can add up if you plan to rent for a week or longer. "That is part of the test that's going on -- to determine public acceptance not only of the equipment but of the price," said Avis representative Loren Cain. National Car Rental customers can sample the system for free in Atlanta and Detroit. "Travel suppliers like to try out their new technology on business travelers," said Chris McGinnis, "so I would say that right now this is probably a fad." It's a trend not every car rental company is following. Budget, Thrifty, and Alamo say they have no plans to invest in GPS. If you do decide to try out the system, be cautious -- until the kinks get worked out, remember to take along more proven navigational tools, like old-fashioned maps. Based on a report from CNN's Business and Travel and Beyond. The segment appears weekdays on Early Edition at 7 AM (ET) and on Morning News at 10 AM (ET). 
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