In this day and age, embedded navigation systems are a must-have for many.
How people navigate today
Today, embedded navigation systems are a must-have for many – and they are still advancing. Besides making driving more efficient, embedded navigation is proven to increase safety.
According to CARE, the EU road accident database, accident rates dropped the moment these systems became mainstream. Driving automation is taking these safety gains even further, relying on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) maps that help the driver or the vehicle to look ahead and around the corner.
With maps that are updated over the air based on driving behavior and real-time traffic data, drivers have instant access to dynamic, constantly up-to-date information. It's no longer about getting from point A to point B – now it's which route is the fastest, safest and most efficient.
Today's navigation and mapping are also able to take different vehicle types - like commercial trucks with special heavy vehicle routing algorithms and motorbikes with winding route options - into account for route planning.
Navigation for tomorrow
One of the biggest catalysts to change the way we navigate is the smartphone. These ubiquitous devices bring an experience in the car that is still hard to match for carmakers: easy online search, always-on, up-to-date navigation and quick route calculation.
But this is just the start. Imagine a world where car and digital lives are connected. Where your car knows your destination as soon as you get into the driver’s seat, and can suggest the fastest, most efficient or scenic route based on personal preferences.
During the trip, you do not have to worry about charging your phone or it sliding off the dashboard. Large screens behind the steering wheel or projected on the windshield clearly show the way. And if equipped with a passenger display, other riders can search for restaurants along the route and send them to the driver’s display. Data from the fuel tank or battery pack combines directions to the lowest fuel prices or available fast chargers.
Upon arrival, suggestions for free parking spots with matching electric charging point appear. And payment for the parking and charge is done automatically.
Bringing that vision into tomorrow’s vehicles
So, what’s next for navigation? The safest, most efficient technology already exists. Can we keep topping ourselves? We believe the answer to that question is “yes” and we work every day to make driving even safer and more efficient. Integrating smartphone-like features into embedded navigation systems is a logical next step. This would make features like those described above accessible for everyone. Customizing and adapting to drivers’ needs is key to improving navigation: This is what moves us at TomTom.