~ Unique project to map a tropical island and earn 10,000 euros ~

AMSTERDAM, Jun 01, 2012 -- TomTom today kicks off its Map Paradise Project, a once-in-a life-time opportunity for five families or groups of friends to spend two weeks on a tropical island and earn 10,000 euros for mapping it. The Map Paradise Project will help create five new navigable maps for: Fiji, St. Lucia, Mauritius, Cape Verde, and the Seychelles. To apply, applicants simply need to fill in a form at www.tomtom.com/summer.

Successful applicants can take up to four family members or friends with them to help map a paradise island. In total, five groups will be sent on all-expenses-paid mapping assignments and each group will earn 10,000 euros. No mapping experience is needed, but TomTom is looking for people who enjoy exploring beautiful places, don't mind great weather and who have a decent sense of direction.

Those selected for the Map Paradise Project will simply need to drive around the island in a specially equipped mapping car. This is the very first step in TomTom's map making process. This mapping field work will take anything from a day to two weeks depending on how much time is spent sunbathing, swimming or exploring.

"The very first step in creating an accurate map is proper field work, and that is where the Map Paradise Project comes in," said Corinne Vigreux, managing director, TomTom. "This project will not only create five new navigable maps, it will also give people a unique insight into how our maps are made. And where better to start mapping, then on a beautiful paradise island."

A short film introducing the TomTom Map Paradise Project can be viewed here (no link!!).

How to apply for the Map Paradise Project

Applicants simply need to fill out a form at www.tomtom.com/summer telling TomTom why they are the perfect group to map paradise. At least one from the group must be able to drive. Five people are able to take part in each project.

The competition is open to residents in the UK, US, Canada, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Denmark, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Ireland and South Africa.

Map Paradise Project Film and spokesperson

A short film explaining why TomTom needs people to take part in its mapping project can be seen here (no link!!). The film stars James, the sound engineer from TomTom's Darth Vader and Yoda voice recordings, and tells the story of his futile attempt at mapping a tropical island and of him getting lost. The film introduces TomTom's Map Paradise Project spokesperson, Christopher Bradshaw and introduces his Golden Rules of mapping. Via Facebook and Twitter Christopher will introduce the islands, receive applications and announce the winners.

About TomTom

Founded in 1991, TomTom (aex:TOM2) is the world's leading supplier of in-car location and navigation products and services focused on providing all drivers with the world's best navigation experience. Headquartered in Amsterdam, TomTom has 3,500 employees and sells its products in over 40 countries.

Our products include portable navigation devices, in-dash infotainment systems, fleet management solutions, maps and real-time services, including the award winning TomTom HD Traffic.

For the world's most up-to-date route planner, including live traffic information, go to www.tomtom.com/livetraffic

For further information, please visit www.tomtom.com