TomTom to Supply Orbis Maps to CARIAD's Automated Driving Systems

Core Component for Automated Systems

According to the press release, CARIAD will use TomTom Orbis Maps as a central component of its automated driving systems. The solution is expected to provide accurate and up-to-date location information to enhance the systems' understanding of their environment. The Dutch company states that these advanced maps constitute an additional mapping layer within the vehicle's software stack, complementing onboard sensors and systems. This capability is intended to improve various critical automated driving functionalities, from intelligent speed assistance to hands-free driving, for future vehicles of the Volkswagen Group brands.

AI-Powered Mapping Platform

TomTom's mapping platform is based on artificial intelligence and operates in real-time, the company reports. It enables the creation of detailed data on lane geometries, their attributes, and driving behaviors, all in reference to an open and stable cartographic standard. According to the press release, TomTom's multi-source approach to map production combines observations derived from high-precision car sensors, survey vehicles, and aerial data. This method allows Orbis Maps to cover more than 235 countries and territories, encompassing all types of roads, with updates triggered within minutes across all road classes.

The Importance of High-Quality Maps

Francisco Ramon Moreno Garcia, head of maps at CARIAD, emphasized that high-quality, up-to-date maps are a fundamental element for safe and scalable automated driving. He noted that despite advances in AI-driven perception, maps remain important as contextual layers that enhance what sensors perceive in real-time. Mike Schoofs, revenue director at TomTom, stated that this collaboration demonstrates the strength of the product and the depth of technical cooperation with CARIAD, reinforcing TomTom's leadership in the future of driving.