TomTom have announced a new traffic receiver that accesses the so-called High Definition congestion database via a built-in GPRS modem.  Plugging into a cigarette lighter to recharge the li-ion battery, the HD Traffic Receiver can access road status on a far greater number of routes than TomTom’s existing TMC FM-based system, as well as being more accurate and specific.  Connection between GPS and HD Receiver is by USB.

Unfortunately the HD service is currently only available in the Netherlands, with the UK and Germany expected to have it before the end of the year and France to get it in 2009.  It’s a similar service to that Dash are promising with their Express GPS’ Dash Express service, though of course that’ll be available in the US. 

The HD Traffic Receiver will be included with certain GO models or available as a standalone accessory for the 930, 730, 530, 920, 720 and 520 devices, priced at €99.95 ($152) with six months of traffic service included; further subscriptions will be priced around €60 for six months.

[via SlashGear]