Cariad, the Volkswagen Group’s automotive software subsidiary, plans to embed TomTom’s Orbis Maps as a central element in its future automated driving systems.
According to TomTom’s announcement, Orbis Maps for automated driving will deliver the detailed spatial data needed to extend how Cariad’s software interprets road environments, supplying precise and frequently updated location information.
The maps will be integrated as an additional map-based layer within the overall vehicle software stack, working alongside onboard sensors and existing systems.
TomTom said the mapping capability is intended to support safety-critical automated driving features, including Intelligent Speed Assistance and hands-free driving.
The company added that the technology is aimed at enabling predictable, “human-like” behaviour in complex driving environments for future vehicles across Volkswagen Group brands.
The Orbis Maps are generated through TomTom’s AI-native, real-time mapmaking platform.
It enables the creation of detailed lane geometry, lane-level attributes, and behavioural data referenced to an open map standard, with the ability to deliver minute-by-minute updates across all road classes.
TomTom chief revenue officer Mike Schoofs said: “This is a testament to the strength of our product and the depth of our technical collaboration with Cariad. TomTom brings not only cutting-edge technology but also the ability to deliver solutions that meet Volkswagen Group’s evolving needs. This collaboration reinforces our leadership in the future of driving.”
Map production draws on multiple data sources, including vehicle sensor observations, survey vehicles and aerial imagery.
TomTom said Orbis Maps provide coverage in more than 235 countries and territories, spanning all road types, supported by continuous change monitoring and rapid update cycles.
Cariad Maps head Francisco Ramon Moreno Garcia added: “High-quality and fresh maps are a foundational part of safe and scalable automated driving today. As AI perception continues to advance, maps stay important as contextual layers that enhance what the sensors see in real time.”
Recently, TomTom launched a new advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) software development kit (SDK).
The company said the ADAS SDK was developed as a modular, lightweight and standalone toolkit that delivers ADAS map data for predictive driver assistance applications.
