Leading German carmakers, such a BMW and Audi have officially bought Nokia’s Digital Mapping for £2.8bn according to BBC news, in hope to secure their future in self-driving cars.
What is digital mapping used for?
Nokia’s ‘here’, provides digitally precise mapping and according to Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the board of Daimler, are a crucial component of the mobility of the future. Digital mapping, also known as digital cartography, combine digitally precise maps with real-time vehicle data to combat the safety and efficiency of self-drive cars.
Stakes
A number of German carmakers have teamed up, as they believe that no single carmakers can do it alone but will each hold an equal stake in Nokia’s Here.
When should we aim to see self-driving cars?
Due to digital mapping, it has been estimated that we will begin to see 10 million self-driving cars on our roads in 2020 (according to, Business Insider). Nokia’s ‘here’ will also benefit the safety of roads and will hopefully make people’s lives easier. According to KPMG, self-driving cars are predicted to save 2,500 lives between 2014 and 2030. Lets hope digital mapping is as brilliant as it’s predicted to be!