Garmin News Releases

Garmin® Provides New Integrated Navigation Device for MINI Vehicles

Garmin — Wed, 22 May 2013 06:00:00 -0500

OLATHE, Kan./May 22, 2013/Business Wire — Garmin® International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced a new integrated and portable navigation device for MINI vehicles. The MINI Navigation Portable XL is designed specifically for MINI models and can be dealer-installed with a customized mount that goes next to the instrument cluster for optimal visibility. All cables are hidden behind the dashboard for a fully integrated look. The device features Garmin’s latest navigation technology, including Garmin Real Directions™, Active Lane Guidance, traffic, lifetime map updates , and voice command. The device housing features a customized piano-black finish with a silver MINI logo. User can also select from a variety of MINI vehicle icons to display their current position. The MINI Navigation Portable XL is available now as an accessory from MINI dealers worldwide.

“We’re pleased to extend our partnership with MINI to provide an integrated, next-generation portable navigation device for MINI vehicles around the globe,” said Matt Munn, Garmin managing director automotive OEM. “This new device makes it easier than ever to follow directions with Garmin’s new Real Directions and Active Lane Guidance features. It also integrates seamlessly with the interior of any MINI.”

Vehicle Installation and Customized Design

The MINI Navigation Portable XL is installed with a customized mount built specifically for MINI vehicles. The dealer-installed mount places the device near the steering column so drivers can view important information at a glance on the four-inch touchscreen. All cables are well hidden behind the dashboard, so drivers don’t have to worry about loose cables or occupying their cigarette lighter to power the device. The MINI Navigation Portable XL can also easily be removed to update the maps and software.

Advanced Navigation Capabilities

Garmin’s comprehensive navigation feature set provides MINI drivers the latest in navigation technology. Garmin Real Directions™ guide drivers in a natural and intuitive way. The new feature uses recognizable landmarks, buildings, traffic lights and stop signs to give directions. Active Lane Guidance uses a combination of voice prompts and visual cues to prepare users to drive through an exit or interchange with confidence. Additional features include millions of points of interest, such as businesses, stores, restaurants and other destinations, traffic rerouting, speed limit warnings and current speed display as well as voice command. The device arrives loaded with detailed maps of North America. With free lifetime¹ map updates, any route is sure to reflect the most up-to-date maps, points of interest and navigation information. New maps are available for download up to four times per year, for the life of the device, with no fees.

Bluetooth Hands-Free and Connected Services

Bluetooth hands-free provides an intuitive and safe solution for making phone calls in the car without touching the phone or looking at its display, thus helping reduce driver distraction. Utilizing the user’s existing smartphone data plan, MINI Navigation Portable XL provides crucial real-time information , such as real-time traffic information, traffic camera images, local search, mobile safety cameras, parking and weather. All users need to do is download the Garmin Smartphone Link app (available for Android and iPhone ) and connect their smartphone to the device via Bluetooth. Garmin Smartphone Link is available at no cost and includes several free live services as well as premium content available through one-time in app purchases .

Garmin’s automotive OEM group utilizes the company’s long-standing experience in user interface and hardware design from its automotive, avionics and marine segments to develop innovative in-car navigation, telematics and infotainment systems. Garmin’s broad range of in-vehicle electronics for the automotive industry includes full infotainment and telematics systems, navigation software, location-based services, and integrated portable navigation systems. Garmin has dedicated automotive OEM offices throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia.

About Garmin International Inc.

Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at www.garmin.com/pressroom or contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200. Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:

This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2012, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at http://www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Garmin Announces FAA Certification, Availability of GTX 330 ES and GTX 33 ES

Garmin — Mon, 20 May 2013 10:42:03 -0500

Garmin has received an Approved Model List Supplemental Type Certification (AML STC) that allows our GTX 330 ES and GTX 33 ES transponders to be installed in hundreds of makes and models of fixed-wing aircraft. This certification qualifies these products for ADS-B NextGen compliance (with accompanying WAAS position source), and are an ideal solution for aircraft that fly at any altitude in the U.S. or outside of the U.S. where it will be required to broadcast on the 1090 frequency band. Customers that already own a GTX 330/33 transponder can purchase an ES upgrade from a Garmin Authorized dealer today for $1,200. For aircraft owners that already have a GTX 330 ES, GTX 33 ES or a GTX 23 ES, a free update is now available through Garmin Authorized Dealers.

Earlier this year, the FAA granted an AML STC for the GDL 88, a simple, ADS-B rule-compliant solution for aircraft operating in the U.S. and below 18,000 feet. The innovative dual-link capability allows the GDL 88 to receive both the 978 MHz UAT and 1090 MHz frequency bands to provide the most comprehensive level of traffic situational awareness. Advanced traffic awareness features include TargetTrend™ relative motion technology, which helps the pilot visualize the trend of the traffic threats as it relates to their aircraft, and SURF technology, which detects other aircraft or ground vehicles on runways and taxiways that may pose a threat while taxiing or on approach.

For more information about ADS-B and Garmin’s solutions, visit the ADS-B Academy at www.garmin.com/ads-b.

Garmin Reports First Quarter 2013 Results

Garmin — Wed, 01 May 2013 08:30:16 -0500

Schaffhausen, Switzerland /May 1, 2013/Business Wire -- Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN - news) today announced results for the fiscal quarter ended March 30, 2013.

Download Q1 2013 Earnings Press Release FINAL

More Vibrant and Easier to Use, Garmin® Introduces GMI™ 20 and GHC™ 20

Garmin — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0500

OLATHE, Kan./April 23, 2013/Business Wire – Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced the GMI 20 and GHC 20, the premier Garmin instrumentation that bridges both the powerboat and sail instrument lineup. Providing a brand new interface that’s easier to use than ever before, the GMI 20 and GHC 20 prove to be vital components in any helm.

“We’ve listened to customer feedback and built off the success of our previous marine instruments to make the GMI 20 and GHC 20 better,” said Dan Bartel, vice president of sales. “With bigger, brighter, more vibrant screens, the GMI 20 and GHC 20 are easier to see, easier to use and provide more crucial information than ever before.”

The GMI 20 has a bonded 4-inch color screen that displays depth, speed, wind, engine information and over 100 marine and vessel-specific parameters based on the mariner’s preference. The GMI 20 is designed to fulfill the purpose of its predecessor, the GMI 10, while further expanding functionality by providing more information in a larger and brighter format.

The GHC 20 also has a bonded 4-inch color screen that is designed to display and provide control of autopilot functions. With a larger and brighter display, the GHC 20 is compatible with legacy Garmin autopilots while also being compatible with newer Garmin autopilot systems. The GHC 20 can also be operated wirelessly with an autopilot remote and Garmin’s newly announced quatix™ marine watch. New autopilot corepacks, such as the GHP™ 10, GHP 12 and GHP 20, will have the GHC 20 included.

With an updated user interface, both the GMI and GHC 20 provide menus and gauges that match the aesthetics of Garmin’s newly announced GPSMAP® 8000 Glass Helm Series. While more user friendly and boasting a more intuitive layout that shares both backlight and color settings, the GMI and GHC 20 have the ability to be flush or flat-mounted, preserving the glass helm appearance that the GPSMAP 8000 Glass Helm Series provides.

Nighttime readability has been increased on the GMI and GHC 20. With a choice of red/black, green/black or the normal nightmode color scheme, the GMI and GHC 20 have LED backlighting that gives the ability to display information much dimmer than the previous GMI and GHC models could. Conversely, daylight readability has also been enhanced. With a higher contrast color scheme and wider viewing angle, the GMI and GHC 20 provide for better clarity and visibility in any sunlight. In addition, the glass-bonded display of the GMI and GHC 20 ensures that no condensation forms within the unit. The glass display is also treated to help prevent any glare or reflection, preserving the clearest view of data possible in any weather conditions.

A new feature introduced on the GMI 20 is auto-scroll. With auto-scroll, the mariner can designate how quickly the pages cycle without user intervention. The layout can be customized to scroll at different time intervals, thus allowing the freedom to install the unit in a greater variety of places and easily access the information from longer distances. This also allows the user the ability to utilize one instrument for multiple uses.

The GMI 20 and GHC 20 are scheduled to be available in the second quarter of 2013. For additional information regarding the GMI 20 and GHC 20, visit www.garmin.com.

Garmin’s marine business segment is a leading provider of navigation and communication equipment to retail and OEM customers. Garmin’s portfolio includes the industry’s most sophisticated array of chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar, high-definition radar, autopilot offerings and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and ease-of-use.

About Garmin International Inc. Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at www.garmin.com/pressroom or contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200. Garmin and GPSMAP are registered trademarks and GMI, GHC, GHP and quatix are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on forward-looking statements:

This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. All statements regarding the company’s future product introductions are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on management's current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2012, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at http://www8.garmin.com/company/investors/SEC/. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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Garmin® Introduces GHP™ 20 Yamaha® Helm Master™ Steer-by-Wire Autopilot

Garmin — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0500

OLATHE, Kan./April 15, 2013/Business Wire – Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced its new GHP 20 Yamaha steer-by-wire autopilot – a marine autopilot certified for Yamaha Helm Master systems. As a controller area network-based electronic steering system, the Yamaha Helm Master allows for direct autopilot control of the primary steering with no additional autopilot pump required.

“We are very excited to be the first autopilot manufacturer that brings autopilot support for the Yamaha Helm Master boat control system to the market” said Dan Bartel, vice president of worldwide sales. “With the Yamaha Helm Master, the helmsman has full control, which can lead to increased situational awareness, confidence and safety.”

Yamaha Helm Master is a fully integrated boat control system, including joystick, engineered for powerboats with twin or triple Yamaha outboard engines. The system uses state-of-the-art electronics and, with integrated joystick functionality, provides easy, 360-degree maneuvering capabilities. With the system, the helmsman can confidently move the boat forward, backward, sideways or diagonally, as well as rotating on its own axis, to accomplish docking maneuvers in tricky or crowded marinas.

The Garmin GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system provides superior control algorithms for unmatched autopilot performance. The GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system will interface to a Yamaha Helm Master boat via an included gateway and take control for heading hold, basic patterns or GPS routes while the Helm Master system is in normal steering mode. Taking advantage of the dynamic gain adjustments based on tachometer information provided by the Yamaha system, the GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system offers optimal performance at all speeds.

With the GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system, Yamaha customers will enjoy features found throughout Garmin’s existing line of autopilots, including Shadow Drive technology – a capability that automatically disengages the autopilot if the helm is turned, allowing for quick and safe manual maneuvers without manually disengaging the autopilot. The autopilot will automatically re-engage once a steady course is re-established. Additionally, this new steer-by-wire autopilot works as a system-wide heading sensor, which enables MARPA and chart overlay when connected to a Garmin chartplotter and radar. For easy installation and integration with other Garmin products, the GHP 20 steer-by-wire autopilot has full NMEA 2000 connectivity.

The GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system will utilize the Garmin GHC™ 10 autopilot control unit, which was designed to help boaters configure and control the autopilot. With an easy-to-read 3.5” color display, three soft keys, and a dedicated “standby” button, boat owners with Yamaha Helm Master steering will benefit from the simple, interactive interface, and will be able to control the heading of the boat with the press of a button.

The GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system is scheduled to be available in the second quarter of 2013. For more information on the GHP 20 for Yamaha, visit www.garmin.com/marine.

About Garmin International Inc. Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at www.garmin.com/pressroom or contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200. Garmin is a registered trademarks and GHP and GHC are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on forward-looking statements:

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Garmin Ltd. Schedules Its First Quarter 2013 Earnings Call

Garmin — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 07:00:00 -0500

SCHAFFHAUSEN, SWITZERLAND / April 5, 2013 / Business Wire / — Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN) invites shareholders and investors to listen to its first quarter 2013 earnings conference call that will be broadcast over the Internet on Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. ET, with executives of Garmin. The call will be held in conjunction with the company's earnings release, which will be distributed prior to market open on May 1, 2013.

What: Garmin Ltd. First Quarter 2013 Earnings Call

When: Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. ET

Where: http://www.garmin.com/en-US/company/investors/events/

How: Simply log on to the Web at the address above, or call to listen in at (888) 510-1762 (due to the limited number of lines available, we encourage you to dial-in approximately 30 minutes prior to the start of the call).

Contact: investor.relations@garmin.com

An archive of the live webcast will be available on the Garmin website at www.garmin.com. To access the replay, click on the Investor Relations link and click over to the Events Calendar page.

Through its operating subsidiaries, Garmin Ltd. designs and manufactures navigation, communication and information electronics. Garmin is a leader in the general aviation and consumer GPS markets and its products serve aviation, marine, outdoor, fitness, automotive, mobile and OEM applications. Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit the Investor Relations site of Garmin Ltd.at www.garmin.com or contact the Investor Relations department at 913-397-8200.

Garmin Pilot App Adds Dynamic Maps with Track Up

Garmin — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0500

OLATHE, Kan./April 4, 2013/Business Wire — Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced an updated version of the Garmin Pilot app for the iPad and iPhone that incorporates Garmin’s best-in-class dynamic navigation maps. The new dynamic maps enable numerous capabilities including track-up orientation, faster map rendering, higher resolution at tighter zoom levels and SafeTaxi® integration on the moving map.

“Garmin has been providing the industry with best-in-class dynamic mapping for over 20 years. Any pilot who has ever used a Garmin aviation portable is familiar with the inherent benefits and improved user experience that come from our dynamic maps,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin’s vice president of aviation sales and marketing. “We have drawn upon those years of experience to offer this same capability with our Garmin Pilot app, demonstrating our continued commitment to bringing industry-leading aviation features to tablets and smart phones.”
Dynamic Maps
With the new dynamic maps, pilots can now choose between track-up or north-up moving map orientation. When in track-up mode, maps will dynamically adjust to the pilot’s direction of flight, ensuring the maps turn smoothly and labels are always upright and easy to read. This is in contrast to traditional static maps where labels appear in a fixed position and orientation, and when the map is rotated, labels may appear sideways or upside down. Garmin’s dynamic maps are also highly configurable, giving pilots the ability to tailor it to their personal preferences including customization of map color, visibility range and label sizes for airports, NAVAIDs and more. Pilots will now enjoy faster map rendering and the ability to zoom in tighter with consistent map resolution. And when zooming into an airport, Garmin’s exclusive SafeTaxi airport diagrams (subscription required) now automatically appear directly on the moving map without the need to switch to a dedicated airport diagram page.

Track-Up
In addition to dynamic track-up on the moving map, pilots also now have the option for track-up orientation on static sectionals and en route charts, ensuring that sectionals rotate based on the pilot’s direction of flight and the aircraft is always traveling up the screen.

Cloud Trip Syncing
Enhancements to Garmin Pilot’s cloud computing technology enable seamless connectivity and information sharing between all Garmin Pilot-enabled mobile devices. Now all trips, aircraft, bookmarked flight plans, pilot details and user waypoints are automatically saved to the cloud and tied to the pilot’s username, so pilots with two devices, like a tablet and a smart phone, can log in and access their information from each one.

Chart Annotation
The ability to annotate charts is another new feature of Garmin Pilot that allows the user to highlight or make notes on approach charts and on the Airport Facilities Directory. Pilots can highlight relevant information, like minimums for example, for faster and more intuitive reference. Plus, all annotations are saved until the next chart cycle.

Every Garmin Pilot release also incorporates customer-requested features and improvements. This release includes scratch pad improvements, flight conditions color options and enhanced trip planning capabilities that are a direct result of customer comments.

The latest version of Garmin Pilot is available immediately as a free update for existing iOS Garmin Pilot subscribers. For new customers, it is available in the Apple App Store as a free download for the first 30 days. After that, pilots can pay a monthly fee of $9.99 or an annual subscription of $74.99. Pilots can optionally upgrade the standard FliteCharts to geo-referenced FliteCharts for an additional $49.99 annually. Geo-referenced SafeTaxi diagrams are available for an additional $24.99 annually. Customers using Garmin Pilot on the Android platform can expect comparable features later this year. For more information, visit www.garmin.com.

Garmin’s aviation business segment is a leading provider of solutions to OEM, aftermarket, military and government customers. Garmin’s portfolio includes navigation, communication, flight control, hazard avoidance, surveillance, and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and value.

About Garmin
Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at www.garmin.com/pressroom or contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200. Garmin Pilot is a trademark and Garmin and SafeTaxi are registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:
This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2012, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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Garmin to Provide In-Dash Navigation for Future Mercedes-Benz Models

Garmin — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0500

OLATHE, Kan./April 2, 2013/Business Wire — Garmin^® International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced that Daimler AG has selected Garmin as global navigation provider for future Mercedes-Benz models. Garmin’s award-winning navigation will be fully integrated into Mercedes-Benz infotainment systems over the next four years.

“Being selected by Daimler as their global tier-one navigation solution partner is a testament to Garmin’s growing capability and exceptional product quality in the auto OEM space,” said Matt Munn, Garmin managing director automotive OEM. “We are honored by Daimler’s confidence in Garmin and we look forward to working with them to deliver an exceptional navigation experience for the world’s most discerning drivers.”

Building upon Garmin’s easy-to-use interface, advanced navigation functionality will be seamlessly integrated into the Mercedes-Benz infotainment systems to provide an efficient and intuitive experience. In addition to displaying navigation and maps on the in-dash display, users will have access to important driver information, such as next turn, at a glance on a second display, positioned behind the steering wheel. The Mercedes-Benz infotainment systems also allow users to control navigation functions through the system’s rotary controller or via voice command functionality. Furthermore, Garmin’s next-generation navigation software will provide critical positioning information for Advanced Driver Assistance (ADAS) functionalities of the vehicle to assist drivers in challenging situations.

About Garmin International Inc.
Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at www.garmin.com/pressroom or contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200. Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:

Garmin’s New Active Traffic Systems Offer Increased Power, Range

Garmin — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 06:00:00 -0500

OLATHE, Kan./March 26, 2013/Business Wire — Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced the GTS 825 Traffic Advisory System (TAS) and the GTS 855 Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS I), offering improved performance and range. The GTS 825 and 855 each offer 400 watts of transmit power, and 40 and 80 nautical miles of interrogation range, respectively. All Garmin traffic systems combine active and passive surveillance data to pinpoint specific traffic threats, and use Garmin’s patented CLEAR CAS™ technology to correlate ADS-B targets, providing pilots with the most comprehensive traffic picture possible.

“The new line of GTS traffic systems offers the best performance for its class and price point. Now with increased transmit power and range, the GTS series provides even broader situational awareness and allows the pilot to visualize more potential traffic targets that could pose a threat,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin’s vice president of aviation sales and marketing. There are four distinct system configurations for the GTS series, and each model creates a 360-degree zone of detection around the aircraft so pilots can see and identify targets in their airspace that may pose a risk. The GTS 800 TAS is a lower-price system offering 40 watts of transmit power, which has been validated for a range of up to 22 nautical miles. The GTS 825 TAS delivers 400 watts of transmit power and up to 40 nautical miles of interrogation range. The GTS 855 TCAS I features the same 400 watt performance, plus up to 80 nautical miles of interrogation range, and also meets the FAA’s TCAS I certification criteria. Finally, the GTS 8000 is also available to meet the FAA’s TCAS/ACAS II certification criteria. The GTS 825 and 855 systems are field upgradable to the higher performance models.

All GTS series products come standard with Garmin’s patented CLEAR CAS (Correlated Location Enhanced ADS-B Receiver Collision Avoidance System) technology, a hybrid system that provides real-time information that is totally independent of radar-based air traffic control. CLEAR CAS combines active and passive surveillance data, including 1090 MHz Extended Squitter ADS-B data (ADS-B Out required). In the future, the system will be able to provide enhanced information about a target aircraft including flight ID, altitude, velocity and direction on select displays.

Traffic information from the GTS series is displayed on the map page or traffic page of Garmin display systems, as well as select third-party displays, using TAS/TCAS symbology. Additional traffic symbology can be displayed on Garmin SVT-equipped PFDs. When the GTS product receives replies to its interrogations, it computes the responding aircraft’s range, bearing, relative altitude, and closure rate. Then, it enhances location data received from ADS-B Out equipped targets, plots the traffic location, predicts collision threats, and depicts the information on the traffic display. The TAS and TCAS I systems also include expanded audio traffic alerts in an ATC-like spoken format. For example, “Traffic; Eleven o’clock; High; Two miles.”

The GTS series also offers flexible antenna configurations that ensure optimum system performance for specific types of aircraft. Customers may choose a single true directional antenna on top of the aircraft, with or without a bottom mounted omnidirectional antenna. High performance aircraft customers may select a top-and-bottom dual directional antenna configuration.

The GTS 825 and 855 have received the FAA’s Technical Standard Order (TSO) authorization, and Garmin will apply for an FAA Approved Model List Supplemental Type Certificate (AML STC). The systems are available immediately for a list price starting at $19,995 and $24,995, respectively.

Garmin’s aviation business segment is a leading provider of solutions to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), aftermarket, military and government customers. Garmin’s portfolio includes navigation, communication, flight control, hazard avoidance, surveillance, and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and value.

About Garmin
Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at www.garmin.com/pressroom or contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200. CLEARCAS is a trademark and Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:
This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2012, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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Garmin® Introduces New Avionics for Experimental Aircraft

Garmin — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 06:00:00 -0500

Announces Lower G3X™ System Price, Plus New Autopilot, AOA Options

OLATHE, Kan./March 25, 2013/Business Wire — Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced seven new, affordable products for experimental and light sport aircraft that offer enhanced capabilities, reduced weight and simplified installation. Garmin’s new lower cost and lighter weight Air Data Attitude Heading Reference System (ADAHRS) and new Engine Indication System (EIS) interface module enable a significant reduction in the G3X price, with highly capable systems starting at $4,375*. In addition, Garmin has introduced new product options that bring enhanced capability to the G3X system including a fully integrated Garmin autopilot, an angle of attack probe and a remote mount ADS-B receiver.

“These new products are designed by our dedicated experimental engineering team, many of whom are pilots and homebuilders, and they have created the kind of smart, cost-friendly avionics that they want to have in their own aircraft,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin’s vice president of aviation sales and marketing. “With these product enhancements and new system options, we’re bringing unprecedented technology and capability to the amateur-built and light sport aircraft market at a remarkably affordable price, continuing our commitment to help enhance situational awareness.”

Garmin Introduces G3X Integrated Autopilot
Garmin’s new integrated autopilot draws on Garmin’s top-end flight control technology to offer the most sophisticated capabilities available in this class of autopilot including flight director cues, coupled approaches, coupled VNAV, automatic trim and more.

The GSA 28 “smart” autopilot servo is a brand new design developed specifically for the experimental market. Weighing only 1.4 pounds, it is over 40 percent lighter than most experimental autopilot servos. A gear train with engagement clutch and ability to back drive the brushless DC motor provide multiple levels of protection without the need to use a shear pin. The engagement clutch also decouples the motor from the flight controls, which minimizes the friction the pilot will feel when the autopilot is off. Each servo also provides a built-in interface to drive a customer-supplied trim servo. When the autopilot is off, the servo provides speed scheduling for the manual trim commands. When the autopilot is on, the servo automatically trims the aircraft to constantly keep it in trim. Plus, servo software updates are done over the CAN bus using the G3X SD card, eliminating the need to send the servo back to the manufacturer for updates.

With the optional GMC 305 autopilot control panel, pilots gain a dedicated autopilot user interface, as well as additional autopilot functionality including airspeed hold, independent flight director, and optional yaw damper. A control wheel integrated into the GMC 305 makes for easier pitch, vertical speed and airspeed adjustments. Plus, for added safety, the panel’s advanced Level (LVL) mode button commands the autopilot to help restore the aircraft to straight and level flight. And because the servos interface directly with the ADAHRS, the GMC 305 control panel allows for standalone operation of the autopilot in the unlikely event of a display loss.

A two-axis Garmin autopilot option for G3X is expected to be available in May for $1,500** (installation kit sold separately). The optional GMC 305 control panel can be added for $750**.

Lighter, Lower-Cost ADAHRS, Optional Angle-of-Attack
Garmin has also introduced a new lower-cost and smaller ADAHRS unit. The GSU 25 ADAHRS provides highly accurate and reliable referencing of the aircraft position, rate, vector and acceleration data, while providing the flexibility to be mounted in any of 16 different vertical or horizontal positions. For enhanced system redundancy, G3X customers now have the option to install multiple ADAHRS units, or add one to their existing G3X installation.

The ADAHRS unit also supports new G3X features like optional Angle of Attack (AOA). The AOA system provides accurate, real-time measurement of wing performance to provide stall margin indication to the pilot both audibly and visually. The GAP 26 pitot/AOA probe is available in three versions: unheated, pilot-controllable heated or fully-regulated heated for protection against inflight icing.

The GSU 25 ADAHRS is expected to be available in April for $799**. The optional AOA probe is expected to be available in April and can be added for $199** (unheated) or $299** (heated). The fully-regulated heated version is expected to be available in July for $449**.

Dedicated EIS Interface Module Brings Increased Installation Flexibility
With Garmin’s introduction of the new GEA 24 stand-alone EIS interface module, homebuilders now have greater flexibility in the installation location, and the new design incorporates standard-density connecters for easier wiring. The GEA 24 enables aircraft-specific tailoring of instrumentation inputs for display of engine gauges, color bands, alerts, fuel, flaps, trim and other vital sensor data on the G3X. The GEA 24 interfaces with most popular engine models including the Rotax 912iS, and sensor kits (sold separately) are available for most popular engine configurations. The GEA 24 is expected to be available in April for $599**.

Remote ADS-B Receiver Delivers Subscription-Free Weather, Datalink Traffic
As the leader in ADS-B solutions, Garmin has also introduced the GDL 39R remote mount ADS-B receiver for fixed installation in light sport and experimental aircraft. The GDL 39R combines a dual-link ADS-B receiver and a GPS receiver into a single product that streams ADS-B traffic and subscription-free weather information to the G3X displays, select Garmin portables and mobile devices like the iPad. The GDL 39R is expected to be available in June for $799***.

Interface Support for IFR Operation, Advanced Navigation
For IFR operation and advanced navigation capabilities, aircraft owners can use the new GAD 29 ARINC 429 adapter to interface up to two GTN or GNS navigators and/or a GTS 800 active traffic system to the G3X. The GAD 29 is expected to be available in July for $425**.

The G3X system is modular and expandable, allowing existing G3X owners to bring new capabilities to their system by adding new features such as multiple ADAHRS, AOA, a GMC 305 autopilot control panel, or a complete Garmin integrated autopilot with GSA 28 auto-trim capable servos.

Additional product and pricing information is available at garmin.com/experimental.

Garmin’s aviation business segment is a leading provider of solutions to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), aftermarket, military and government customers. Garmin’s portfolio includes navigation, communication, flight control, hazard avoidance, surveillance, and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and value.

About Garmin
Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at www.garmin.com/pressroom or contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200. G3X is a trademark and Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:
This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2012, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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*Manufacturer’s Minimum Advertised Price (MAP). GSU 25/GEA 24 connector kit, GMU 22 install kit and GPS/XM antenna(s) sold separately.
**Manufacturer’s Minimum Advertised Price (MAP). Connector kit sold separately.
***Manufacturer’s Minimum Advertised Price (MAP).