The iPAQ navigation system was initially trialled at Heathrow, Birmingham and Manchester but following the success of the scheme, units can be rented at all airports and rental stations.
A Europcar spokeswoman, said: 'We have had very good feedback from customers. A lot of customers are business people and they are used to handling PDA pocket computers. In the long term we should attract more holidaymakers as they will get more familiar with the product.'
The units, which cost £11.75 a day to hire, are discounted for rental periods of four days or more and hold information on the nearest petrol stations, hotels, restaurants and hospitals.
Europcar customers are given a full demonstration of the system before rental commences, backed by an information pack and a telephone helpline.
iPAQ system is clear and simple to use Fleet News reporter Adele Burton tested Europcar's iPAQ system on a 200-mile round trip. She reports: 'After a detailed explanation from a Europcar employee, the system was up and running.
'I found the iPAQ difficult to use but that was down to my lack of familiarity with handheld computers. Regular users should have no trouble. The system gives clear instructions and found my destinations without any hitches. The only grumbles I have are that the system does not mute the stereo when issuing a command and I found the iPAQ fiddly to use. The standard price also bumps up the daily rental by almost 50% in some cases.
'In summary, the idea of satellite navigation systems in daily rental cars is a great addition for any hirer.'
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