Volkswagen’s automotive software and technology company CARIAD and the geolocation technology specialist TomTom announced that they are co-developing a navigation product for the Volkswagen Group. The innovative product will combine TomTom’s expertise in hybrid navigation and industry-leading traffic services, with CARIAD’s competencies in premium user experience and vehicle integration. This multi-year deal between TomTom and the Volkswagen Group covers all markets globally excluding China and is the continuation of successful and long cooperation: TomTom has been a trusted traffic service partner for the Volkswagen Group for many years.
CARIAD, which is working on software and hardware platforms for all Volkswagen Group brands, will develop the navigation UI/UX as well as the map visualization, creating a unique navigation experience for the customers of Volkswagen Group brands. Volkswagen’s new software house aims to integrate the navigation tightly into its vehicle platforms providing a seamless operation across infotainment and the most advanced driver assistance systems. By leveraging the Volkswagen Group’s global fleet size and making use of its data, CARIAD will continuously improve the quality and coverage of the navigation services. By 2030, CARIAD aims to connect up to 40 million vehicles globally to Volkswagen Group’s Automotive Cloud.
TomTom has developed a unique navigation solution that will integrate flawlessly into the Volkswagen Group’s digital cockpits, delivering frequent over-the-air updates. TomTom’s state-of-the-art cloud-native navigation solution takes advantage of super-fast up-to-date routing and real-time traffic information, to deliver the best guidance and most accurate estimated times of arrival. When no data connection is available, the solution switches to its onboard software, making it available under all circumstances.
“By partnering with TomTom, we are taking another step towards transforming Volkswagen Group cars into an automotive experience that seamlessly integrates into the driver’s digital life,” said Francisco Moreno, Head of Navigation at CARIAD. “With TomTom’s trusted support and expertise, backed by the Volkswagen Group’s extensive connected fleet, we will bring many exciting innovations to market that will contribute towards a safer, more time-efficient and intuitive driving experience.”
Co-development of additional innovative solutions is in progress. The first models to showcase the next generation navigation technology will be electric, hitting the road in 2023. These models will benefit from EV range and routing accuracy that is far more precise than anything available today. The development of other pioneering features including lane level navigation and lane dependent traffic as well as a more advanced and personalized EV experience are also underway as part of this cycle of continuous innovation.
“We are excited to deepen our ties with the Volkswagen Group by co-developing with CARIAD, a leader in the car industry,” said Antoine Saucier, Managing Director, TomTom Automotive. “Today marks another milestone in our relationship, as we announce that our state-of-the-art navigation solution will power the Volkswagen Group’s next generation digital cockpits – from volume to premium car lines – with the promise of greater integration and continuous innovation in the years to come.”
