Autodesk Location Services Announces Availability of Autodesk MobileConnect for Wireless Operators.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN RAFAEL, Calif. & MILAN, Italy--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2001

Autodesk(R) Location Services, a division of Autodesk, Inc. (Nasdaq:ADSK) today announced the global launch of Autodesk(R) MobileConnect which extends to mobile devices the Connect telematics solution, developed jointly with TargaSys, a division of Fiat Auto S.p.A (http://www.targaconnect.com).

MobileConnect enables wireless operators to offer a wide variety of location-based services to subscribers. These services include navigation and real-time traffic information; point-of-interest information such as nearby museums, and restaurants; and concierge services such as airline, hotel and restaurant reservations. Using a GSM or GPRS-enabled mobile device, the service is activated by the single touch of a button that generates a Short Message Service (SMS) message that is sent to the TargaSys contact center. The SMS message contains the subscriber's location details and triggers a personalized database that helps the operator respond to the individual's need. The TargaSys contact center is staffed by 800 operators, supporting 14 languages.

Autodesk MobileConnect represents the next phase in the unique partnership between the professional services arm of auto manufacturer Fiat and software provider Autodesk Location Services to deliver infomobility solutions to wireless operators. Although MobileConnect was created using Autodesk software, it takes advantage of Fiat's existing call center and content relationships with partners including Reuters, TimeOut, OAG and TrafficMaster and many other suppliers to deliver a complete value-added data services solution to wireless operators.

"Autodesk Location Services and TargaSys are taking what is considered one of the most advanced telematics offerings on the market and transforming that into a revenue opportunity for wireless operators," said Maged Fahmy, senior analyst, Carrier and Enterprise Communications, Aberdeen Group. "This solution is a concrete example of how location-based services can be implemented today by operators to introduce value added wireless data services."

MobileConnect builds on the successful partnership with TargaSys in delivering the award-winning Connect telematics service to Fiat customers. This extended telematics solution has shown tremendous success since it was launched in April 2001 with the new Alfa Romeo 147. A high percentage of Alfa Romeo customers have chosen to subscribe to the Connect service and this high customer adoption rate has encouraged Fiat to offer Connect in more of its cars, including the new Fiat Stilo and Lancia Thesis in 2001.

Next Generation Wireless Data Service

Autodesk(R) MobileConnect offers a wide variety of personalized location-sensitive information using current technologies and existing carrier infrastructure. Autodesk Location Services and TargaSys each contribute key elements of the total solution that separate Autodesk MobileConnect from the competition. The solution leverages TargaSys' multi-lingual contact center to promote a rewarding experience for wireless subscribers as they become accustomed to these new services. MobileConnect incorporates content from TargaSys' strategic partnerships with top-tier content providers, providing high-quality, dependable data on real-time traffic conditions, point-of-interest information, and other types of location-specific information.

The Autodesk(R) LocationLogic platform is a key component of the overall solution. LocationLogic provides a stable, commercial-grade environment for the deployment of location-sensitive applications. Using enhanced Cell-Sector ID, LocationLogic integrates with wireless network information that pinpoints the user's location. MobileConnect builds upon the LocationLogic platform by offering a unique wireless application framework. This framework allows for rapid development of location-sensitive applications by providing the flexibility of multiple channel support (i.e., voice, SMS, WAP, HTML, operator assisted), an easy-to-use application programming interface, and intuitive menu-driven applications. MobileConnect also simplifies the task of aggregating and managing content (base maps, point-of-interest information, real-time traffic feeds) derived from TargaSys' extensive group of content partners.

About TargaSys (a company fully owned by FIAT S.p.A.)

TargaSys is a holding company founded in 1996, in order to answer the need of mobility of companies and private consumers, entirely dedicated to the world of services of the automobile intended as assistance, infomobility, insurance, and renting services. Thanks to its deep knowledge of the car and driver world, Targasys projects, develops, sales and manages a wide range of high technological value, contents tailor-made and integrated services, directly or through strategic partnerships, in a timely and efficient way. All of this supported by committed and motivated people, engaged in developing and applying quality principles in every sector of activity dedicating their attention on the full satisfaction of the client's needs.

About Autodesk Location Services

Autodesk Location Services http://www.autodesk.com/locationservices, a division of Autodesk, Inc., provides infomobility solutions to carriers and enterprises worldwide. The Autodesk LocationLogic platform and applications bring personalized, localized and actionable wireless data services to wired, mobile and wireless environments. Founded in 1982, Autodesk is the world's leading design and digital media creation, management, and distribution company. The company serves a diverse portfolio of industries, including building design, manufacturing, geographical information systems and digital film and video industries. Autodesk is one of the largest global software companies with annual revenues of $936 million. For more information about the company, see www.autodesk.com.

Note to Editors: Autodesk is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.