Tech blog: Top gear? BBC bans Jeremy Clarkson-voiced satnav

Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson seems to court controversy whatever he says - but even he could not have predicted that his contribution to a new satnav system would cause consternation.

But that’s exactly what has happened with the new Top Gear satnav, which was rushed out in time for Christmas but has now been banned by the BBC over a breach of editorial guidelines.

The satnav system features sarcastic guidance from Clarkson, including lines such as:

• Right, we’re off. You’re relying on me for directions, and I’m relying on you to listen. Do not disappoint me.

• After 700 yards, assuming this car can make it that far, you have reached your destination, with the aid of 32 satellites, and me.

• Ahead, keep left, and if you’re sure what side left is on you really shouldn’t be on the road.

• Cross the roundabout, third exit, then sharp right, that’s your right obviously not mine, I’m facing backwards for some reason.

BBC executives have decided the deal with TomTom ran against editorial policy which prevents the show’s presenters endorsing motoring products.

The satnavs will still be sold but BBC Worldwide - the corporation’s commercial arm, which struck the deal - will no longer make any profit from the product. Its proceeds will now be given to Children In Need, removing BBC Worldwide’s commercial interest to get round the problem.

No more of the Top Gear devices will be made, and a plan to allow existing TomTom owners to download the voice to update their models has now been dropped.

A spokesman for Halfords, which is the exclusive retailer of the device in the UK, said: “We are disappointed with the decision by the BBC on behalf of our customers who told us they loved the product. It was proving hugely popular.

“While we have plenty of stock at the moment we will not be able to replace them when they are gone, so the strident tones of Mr Clarkson will be appearing in Halfords for a limited time only and after that he will be silenced, at least on a satnav.”

The discontinued device also has a Stig mode, which remains silent.

• Follow @ScotsmanTech on Twitter