National Press Release

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- CES -- HUGHES Telematics announced today that it has implemented the world's first technology-neutral telematics framework that allows virtually any supplier's technology to be integrated into the system. This Next Generation Telematics Architecture establishes an open telematics platform structure that allows for interconnectivity between multiple content providers, call centers and in-vehicle hardware platforms.

HUGHES Telematics has developed their architecture around the vision and standards as established by the Next Generation Telematics Protocol (NGTP) working committee (www.ngtp.org). The solution exemplifies NGTP's commitment to scalability and flexibility within the telematics industry. Following the proposed architecture, HUGHES Telematics created an industry platform that allows automotive OEMs to custom-tailor content and features while maintaining maximum flexibility in hardware selection and the addition of future services. This includes improving the driver experience by allowing for new content, Internet applications and service updates to be downloaded remotely via the HUGHES Telematics platform.

"The NGTP working committee set a high benchmark for the industry. Given the roll out timeframe in the automotive industry, we viewed that benchmark as a necessary starting point for our solution," said Erik Goldman, president, HUGHES Telematics. "Scalability and flexibility have always been critical considerations in the development of our technology. The implementation of our solutions for our OEM partners will demonstrate the value of this open technology."

The protocol implemented by HUGHES Telematics supports multiple call centers, content providers and hardware suppliers. The Next Generation Telematics Architecture solution implemented by HUGHES Telematics also supports various vehicle interfaces and data formats, thus it can be configured to any vehicle. These developments liberate the supply chain and ensure the ability to offer new services without reconfiguring the vehicle.

"Through our partnership with HUGHES Telematics, we are looking at ways to create a shared vision of how technology can shape the future of the vehicle and revolutionize the driving experience," said Marios Zenios, vice president, Connectivity and Infotainment, Chrysler LLC.

"The telematics industry continues to evolve as technology offerings mature and consumer expectations for the connected car grow," says Thilo Koslowski, vice president and lead automotive analyst, Gartner, Inc. "Next generation telematics offerings will leverage an open system approach to enable service differentiation, flexible content management and the creation of unique driver experiences."

About Hughes Telematics

HUGHES Telematics ( www.HUGHEStelematics.com ) is a leader in implementing the next generation of connected services for the automobile. Centered on a core platform of safety and security offerings, the company develops and manages vehicle- and driver-centric solutions to enhance the driving and ownership experience. Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., HUGHES Telematics offers a portfolio of consumer, manufacturer, fleet and dealer services provided through two-way broadband connectivity to the vehicle. HUGHES Telematics and Polaris Acquisition Corp (Amex: TKP.U) have agreed to an all stock merger which, upon satisfaction of certain closing conditions, will result in HUGHES Telematics stockholders and management becoming the controlling stockholders and management of Polaris.

SOURCE HUGHES Telematics