TomTom, the prominent location technology specialist, has unveiled significant advancements to its Orbis Maps product, integrating immersive 3D lane geometry and offering lane-level precision data with unprecedented global coverage. This achievement, announced on January 7, 2025, promises to revolutionize how various industries utilize mapping technology, enhancing efficiencies and creating exciting new applications.
With the continuous rise of vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), there is an increasing need for highly accurate lane-level mapping data. TomTom’s enhancements address this demand by utilizing the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and merging multiple data sources, including crowdsourced observations from production vehicles as well as imagery from aerial and satellite surveys, leading to more efficient mapping processes.
According to Mike Schoofs, TomTom's Chief Revenue Officer, "Our enhancements to TomTom Orbis Maps represent a transformative step in mapping technology." The strategy incorporates the latest AI tools, facilitating the production of crisp 3D lane geometry across all road types, all at minimal cost. This development aims to aid automotive companies as they accelerate their automation efforts, particularly as the number of vehicles incorporating automated driving features continues to grow.
One of the groundbreaking innovations is the expansive coverage of lane geometry data, achieved through the integration of various data collection methods including rider inputs, dashcam footage, and existing map information. The result is both detailed and cost-effective 3D maps, enabling precise navigation even in complex urban settings. This is particularly significant for enhancing navigation experiences at high-speed junctions, busy intersections, and other difficult driving scenarios typically associated with urban environments.
Beyond the automotive industry, the new mapping capabilities promise to simplify last-mile logistics for transportation firms, enabling them to optimize pickups and drop-offs. This optimization translates to both time savings and reduced operational costs, making it increasingly beneficial for companies at the forefront of logistics management.
Urban planners also stand to gain from the wealth of data provided by TomTom's innovative mapping technology. With access to detailed lane-level specificity, they can make informed decisions about traffic management, bike lane planning, public transport routes, and parking space optimization. This elevated granularity affords urban planners the tools necessary to create more efficient, smarter cities.
Mike Schoofs expressed the wide-reaching benefits of this development: "This innovation not only accelerates the development of automated driving but also provides urban planners and government officials with the insights they need to create smarter, more efficient cities." The integration of these advanced mapping technologies indicates a progressive shift toward smarter urban environments and the optimization of transportation systems.
By creating more accurate maps and using AI-driven enhancements, TomTom aims to become the central architect for the future of mobility. Their initiative helps facilitate the harmonious convergence of technology and everyday life, with expectations to redefine how industries approach mapping and data collection.
With billions of data points collected from millions of sources across numerous global communities, TomTom’s commitment to being the innovative mapmaker reaffirms their role as leaders within the industry. They provide location data and technology to drivers, automotive manufacturers, businesses, and developers alike, paving the future of seamless navigation and efficient travel.
Headquartered in Amsterdam, TomTom has been shaping the future of mobility for over three decades, and this latest announcement reaffirms their dedication to providing application-ready maps, real-time traffic updates, and effective location-based services. Looking forward, TomTom's enhancements to the Orbis Maps platform herald the dawn of exciting technological advancements across public safety, urban planning, and transportation logistics.