BMW, Audi And Daimler Make Big Autonomous Car Move

Mercedes-Benz S500 Inteligent Drive (Credit: Daimler)

Autonomous vehicle technology is hot right now, with Google and Apple being some of the biggest forces behind the movement. BMW, Audi and Daimler (the parent company for Mercedes) recently agreed to purchase Nokia’s HERE, a mapping and location service. That might at first not sound like a big deal, but it will allow the three automakers to create their own autonomous drive technology, instead of having to rely on Google or Apple’s mapping capabilities.

Instead of hoarding HERE’s technology, the Germans are actually saying that they’re dedicated to maintaining it as an open and independent platform. That would allow access for other automakers and companies from other industries to take advantage of the cloud-based maps.

The technology will allow for incredibly precise maps, which is a vital component of future autonomous vehicles. Cars will also collect data about their surroundings in real time, allowing them to adapt quickly to emergencies. With the open platform, HERE would allow the different automakers to customize a brand-specific service that has unique features.

HERE will leverage swarm intelligence by collecting anonymous information through vehicles’ cameras and sensors. That means treacherous conditions will be communicated to nearby cars, such as an especially icy bridge or washed-out section of road. Traffic jams that begin to form will be corrected quickly, keeping traffic flowing smoothly. Such warnings could also come in handy for drivers who are manually controlling a vehicle, telling them to turn on different assistance systems to help with getting through problematic areas.

With the new deal, HERE’s management will be stable and independent. The service will continue to operate in almost 200 different countries. The hope is that even more users will flock to it, providing a viable alternative to Google, Apple and others.

The deal isn’t in the clear yet, with government regulatory bodies taking a look at it right now. When finalized, the three automakers will each hold an equal stake in HERE.