Location technology specialist TomTom has launched a new map-based software system which it says helps passenger and commercial vehicles anticipate the road ahead.
TomTom Virtual Horizon is all-in-one advanced driver assistance system which the company says lets automakers provides a seamless connection between digital maps and ADAS functionality, allowing vehicles to see beyond the range of their sensors, for a smoother and safer drive.
The new TomTom Virtual Horizon uses ADAS by supporting vehicles without embedded navigation, as well as the most technologically advanced automated vehicles. The software translates highly attributed map data into actionable information for drivers and vehicles alike. For example, if there is a sharp bend in the road or a change in the speed limit ahead, TomTom Virtual Horizon will warn drivers in non-automated vehicles to prepare to take action, while the software in automated vehicles will enable more informed and intelligent decision making without the involvement of the driver.
“While TomTom continues to join forces with automakers to develop next-generation technologies like self-driving cars, we are most proud when we bring to market affordable advanced technologies that will make driving safer and easier for everyone, not just the select few,” said Antoine Saucier, Managing Director, TomTom Automotive. “TomTom Virtual Horizon will bring actionable information about the road ahead, way beyond the vision of drivers and vehicle sensors, that will improve road safety around the world.”
TomTom says Virtual Horizon offers automakers an all-in-one solution that includes precise positioning, intelligent route prediction, and a horizon provider compliant with industry standard protocols. The new software is built on TomTom’s ADAS map used in millions of automated vehicles around the world. The solution supports all the TomTom ADAS Map’s road attributes including speed limits, traffic signs, gradient, curvature, lane information and traffic lights. TomTom Virtual Horizon and the TomTom ADAS Map combine for the only all-in-one advanced driver assistance systems offering. Use cases for the solution include predictive powertrain control to minimise emissions as well as improved battery management for hybrid and electric vehicles.
TomTom says the new software will make it easy for automakers to comply with upcoming Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) regulations, including the legislation adopted by the European Commission for the EU that comes into effect as of July 2022. TomTom Virtual Horizon is now in production with multiple global brands.
(Picture – TomTom)
