High-definition maps: the essential ingredient of software-defined vehicles

As cars become more connected and automated, digital maps and AI are emerging as the brains powering the machines.

We’re at a pivotal point in automotive history, believes Remco Timmer, Senior Vice President of Product Management at HERE Technologies. Writing on Unite.AI, he said cars are increasingly being shaped by software, not mechanical engineering—with digital maps fundamental to their operation.

A recent study by IBM found that 74% of automotive executives believe that by 2035 vehicles will be both software-defined and AI-powered. By this date, 80% of new cars are expected to be electric, providing an even better foundation for integrating vehicle systems, mapping, software and AI capabilities.

“AI will increasingly become the digital engine behind some of the most valuable vehicle functions: digital cockpits with natural language prompting, real-time navigation and dynamic routing, predictive maintenance, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and higher levels of automated driving,” Timmer wrote.

At the heart of the revolution is the map. But even that is going through change, evolving from a traditional static map to a live, dynamic representation of the road.

These high-definition digital maps are powering an array of vehicle systems and are increasingly becoming essential for safe and efficient driving in electric, connected and automated vehicles.

“A live map provides much more than simple navigation, enabling the vehicle to interpret its surroundings and make informed driving decisions in real-time,” added Timmer. “AI’s ability to detect patterns, recognize environmental changes—and update map data dynamically makes it possible for the driver (and vehicle systems) to avoid construction zones, reroute around traffic accidents and become aware of changes in road signage or speed limits.”

These live maps continuously integrate data from a variety of sources, including vehicle sensors, satellite imagery and even other road users to reflect changing conditions. AI and machine learning is then able to make sense of this stream of data to unlock the true potential of a live map.

“Looking to the future, a live map will become even more central to how vehicles operate, helping them interpret and respond to the world around them with increasing precision,” said Timmer. “The rise of digital twin technology, where AI creates real-time virtual replicas of vehicles, will also allow automakers to simulate, test and refine vehicle functions before they ever hit the road.”

Beyond navigation, AI-driven analytics is also powering predictive insights that could make vehicles and fleet management more efficient and safer. For example, AI can detect patterns in sensor and performance data—tire and brake wear, for instance—enabling earlier identification of maintenance needs.

“What’s clear is that this future will require strong partnerships between automakers, AI technology providers, cloud platforms and location data experts. No single organization can build it alone. But by working together, we can shape a safer, smarter and more connected automotive future,” added Timmer. “As the industry continues its shift to software-defined architectures, the importance of real-time, AI-powered location intelligence will only grow.”

Read the full article on Unite.AI.