TomTom has launched a new piece of technology, RoadDNA, which it says will “help make automated driving a reality, faster.”
As well as delivering vehicle location information, just like a sat-nav, the new RoadDNA system – which is still in the ‘patent pending’ process - is programmed to report on changing factors to the outside environment via a series of sensors. This means that much like the autonomous cars being tested by Google, the car is aware of things such as pedestrians and other vehicles on the road.
Volkswagen’s recent V-Charge autonomous car project is a great example of where self-driving cars are heading:
TomTom says that this new system works alongside its existing HAD Map programme and can be easily integrated into the on-board system of a vehicle. It also says that the system will work when travelling at high speeds.
Harold Goddijn, TomTom CEO, commented on the new RoadDNA system: “We know that the future of automated driving hinges on the ability of a vehicle to continuously know exactly where it is located on the road. TomTom RoadDNA is the only technology of its kind that delivers highly accurate vehicle localisation content in an efficient and cost effective way.”
Although the new system will not be able to take the wheel and drive you home, it certainly hints at intelligent cars that are capable of giving the driver a sixth-sense, so to speak. The ability to integrate the system into a vehicle also means that motorists could potentially get sophisticated autonomous-style technology in aftermarket, as opposed to having it fitted as a pricey option when buying a new car.
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