Garmin has recently announced the Tread® XL – Baja Race and Tread XL – Baja Chase Editions, high-performance, off-road navigators which are purpose-built for high-speed race vehicles and support trucks. These large, 10-inch navigators have high-visibility touchscreens that are glove-friendly with push-button control options. These navigators are ruggedly constructed to withstand extreme conditions such as hot desert temperatures and challenging terrain and have an IP67 rating to resist dust and water.
One of the standout features of these navigators is the built-in inReach® technology which provides team tracking with global satellite coverage. This allows race vehicles and chase trucks to message and track each other with live position updates, giving teams a new level of coordination and communication on the racecourse.
The Tread XL Baja navigators also offer pre-running tools to create custom pace notes for each course, such as “sharp turn,” “step-down,” or “danger,” which can help drivers anticipate terrain and navigate the most efficient route through all virtual checkpoints. Additionally, the track recorder feature uses a splits/lap timer to record performance and help improve racing times. The “chase” mode allows support trucks to track a race vehicle with live updates on the map.
The Baja Race Edition includes the Tread XL Baja Dock for easy push-button interaction and can panel mount the device directly to the dashboard or use the bail mount to secure it. The portable Baja Chase Edition has a heavy-duty suction cup mount, vehicle power cable, and robust mounting hardware to move from one support truck to another quickly.
In summary, the Garmin Tread XL Baja navigators are high-performance, off-road, purpose-built for high-speed race vehicles and support trucks. They are ruggedly constructed to withstand extreme conditions and have built-in inReach satellite communication for live tracking and messaging to help give teams the winning edge. The pre-running tools, track recorder feature, and “chase” mode are some of the standout features that give drivers the ability to anticipate terrain and navigate the most efficient route through all virtual checkpoints.
About this item
- Rugged, IP67 off-road racing navigator with a large 10” ultrabright touchscreen and included Tread XL Race Dock for easy, push-button controls
- Team tracking with built-in inReach technology (Requires active inReach Flex Team subscription. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices.) allows race vehicles and chase trucks to message and track each other with live position updates from anywhere
- Panel mount the device directly to the dashboard, or use the included bail mount to secure; external inReach device (Requires active inReach Flex Team subscription. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices.) and GPS antennas are included for optimal performance
- GPX course file-compatible to view course start/end, racetrack line, virtual checkpoints and race mile markers
- Prerunning tools to create custom pacenotes — such as “sharp turn,” “stepdown” or “danger” — helps anticipate obstacles and navigate your most efficient route through all virtual checkpoints
- Track recorder helps drivers record their performances and improve their race times by saving splits/laps
- Purpose-built for professional off-road racing; large 10” display is easy to see, rugged and capable of withstanding hot desert temperatures and rocky terrain
- Downloadable high-resolution BirdsEye Satellite Imagery shows vivid aerial views of your surroundings
- Works with the Garmin PowerSwitch digital switch box (sold separately) to control your vehicle’s 12-volt accessories, such as rock lights, fans and air pumps
The future of digital coverage of off-road racing also looks bright with the emergence of new technologies.
With the increasing use of drones and other aerial cameras, viewers will be able to see the races from new and exciting perspectives, providing a more immersive viewing experience. Additionally, advancements in virtual and augmented reality technology could enable fans to feel like they are truly on the track, participating in the race themselves. Furthermore, developments in live-streaming technology will make it easier for fans to tune in and watch the races in real-time, regardless of their location. With all these new developments, fans will have more ways to engage with the sport, making off-road racing even more accessible and exciting to watch.