In an era where technology and transportation are rapidly converging, TomTom and Mitsubishi Electric have embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration. This partnership aims to revolutionize the realm of automated driving technology. With TomTom’s High Definition Map combined with Mitsubishi Electric’s High-Definition Locator, the collaboration promises to offer automakers a high-precision, integrated solution, marking a significant leap forward for next-generation vehicles.
TomTom and Mitsubishi Electric: A Synergistic Collaboration
TomTom, a location technology specialist, has joined forces with Mitsubishi Electric, a leader in electrical and electronic equipment. Their collaboration focuses on developing hardware solutions that deliver highly accurate navigation data essential for automated driving.
Michael Horani, Director of Advanced Development at Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America, Inc., expressed excitement about the partnership. “We’re exhilarated to work with TomTom, widely recognized as the leading provider of precise and reliable mapping data. Through this collaboration, we help accelerate innovation in automated driving and utilize industry-leading, up-to-date maps to improve the safety of autonomous vehicles.”
Similarly, Paul Hesen, VP of Product Management at TomTom, highlighted the evolving role of digital maps in autonomous driving. “With drivers relying more heavily on their cars, the role and scope of digital maps must go beyond turn-by-turn navigation and be built specifically for self-driving vehicles. TomTom HD Maps are designed for this purpose, helping vehicles plan a path and safely travel along any route.”
The Cutting-Edge Technology Behind the Collaboration
TomTom’s High Definition (HD) Map will power Mitsubishi Electric’s High-Definition Locator hardware. This integration provides the highly accurate data required for automated driving. Mitsubishi Electric’s High-Definition Locator is a highly precise GPS-based vehicle positioning system that utilizes quasi-zenith satellites (QZSS), offering unmatched accuracy.
TomTom’s HD Map leverages a multi-sourcing strategy, incorporating data from GPS probes, front-facing cameras, and vehicle sensors. This approach enables automated driving systems to anticipate the road ahead accurately. These technologies have already been implemented in millions of vehicles, supporting Levels 1 to 2-Plus autonomous driving.
Impact on Automated Driving and Future Prospects
This collaboration is not just a technological marvel but also a significant step towards enhancing road safety and efficiency in autonomous driving. The precise mapping and GPS positioning enable vehicles to make informed decisions, from lane changes to complex navigational maneuvers.
As we move towards a future where self-driving cars become the norm, collaborations like that of TomTom and Mitsubishi Electric play a pivotal role in shaping this new landscape of transportation.
In Summary
The partnership between TomTom and Mitsubishi Electric is more than just a technological advancement; it’s a beacon of innovation, signaling the dawn of a new era in automated driving. As we witness these remarkable developments, we invite our readers to share their thoughts and opinions. What impact do you think this collaboration will have on the future of transportation? Join the conversation in the comments below and be a part of this exciting journey into the future of automated driving.
