HERE introduces HD Maps for automated vehicle tests in US, France, Germany and Japan


HERE is making high-definition (HD) mapping data of sections of public roads in US, France, Germany and Japan to all automotive companies to support their highly automated vehicle initiatives.

HERE HD maps

HERE is offering HD mapping data of specific stretches of open road in Silicon Valley and Michigan in the United States, as well as in France and Germany, to all car makers and automotive suppliers for test purposes. It plans to offer data for Japan too later this year. HERE is currently working with more than 10 leading automotive companies on automated driving projects.

“We have been providing mapping data for the automotive industry for three decades. Now we are building on those long standing relationships to help our customers advance their leadership in this crucial technology.”

said Bruno Bourguet, Senior Vice President of Sales and Business Development at HERE.

HERE has been developing its HD map using its LiDAR-equipped data capture vehicles and advanced processing technologies. As part of that effort, HERE has mapped several private test tracks for automated driving projects. In order to map roads at a 10-to-20 centimeter accuracy, HERE uses LiDAR technology to collect billions of 3D points and model road surfaces down to the number of lanes and their width. It captures important details such as the slope and curvature of the road, lane markings and roadside objects such as sign posts, including what that signage denotes.

“The HD Map is a crucial component of automated driving technology, helping highly automated vehicles precisely position themselves on the road. This highly detailed information helps highly automated cars better plan maneuvers and make driving decisions.”

said Ogi Redzic, Senior Vice President of Automotive at HERE.


Author: Sneha Bokil

Sneha Bokil is a tech enthusiast and is currently using OnePlus 3T but she still treasures her Nokia N70 (M). You can follow her on Twitter @snehabokil and on Google+