The Volvo EX90 makes use of an array of lidar, camera and radar technology to ensure the vehicle understands its surrounding environment for higher levels of occupant safety. In addition to these technologies, and to improve the capabilities of assisted driving features and eventually autonomous driving, environments immediately ahead of the vehicle and further down the road need to be recognized immediately and effectively.
To ensure this is possible, the vehicle uses Google’s highly detailed HD map, which has been developed to deliver comprehensive, up-to-date information about upcoming roadways.
Through the integration of the HD map, data from the Volvo EX90’s sensor set and Google’s lane-level and localization data will work together to enable assisted driving features such as lane change assistance or Volvo Cars’ Pilot Assist technology. These systems will also enable autonomous driving functions further down the line.
“The addition of Google HD maps in our future car line-up marks an expansion of our strategic collaboration with Google, reflecting our commitment to work with technology leaders,” said Javier Varela, Volvo’s COO and deputy CEO. “Implementing Google HD maps in our upcoming cars will help us offer our drivers a more enjoyable driving experience and, in the future, contribute to the introduction of safe autonomous driving.”
Jorgen Behrens, VP and general manager of Geo Automotive at Google, commented, “Building on our long history of mapping the world, Google’s new HD map is designed specifically for auto makers and provides comprehensive lane-level and localization data that is crucial to powering the next generation of assisted and autonomous driving systems. We’re excited to continue partnering with leading auto makers like Volvo Cars to improve the safety and comfort of drivers everywhere.”
All the road information from each system will be processed through the vehicle’s core computer system, which is powered by the Nvidia Drive AI platforms Xavier and Orin. The combination of Google’s HD map and the vehicle’s lidar and software technologies will help make the car safer and more predictable for users and occupants.
The HD map will also support the introduction of Volvo’s autonomous driving technology in combination with the OEM’s sensor set, which is made up of a roof-integrated lidar, radars, cameras and ultrasonic sensors to improve the car’s understanding of its surrounding environment.
“Zenseact is proud to work alongside Volvo Cars and Google on the implementation of this game-changing technology for assisted and, later on, autonomous driving,” added Ödgärd Andersson, chief executive officer of Zenseact (Volvo’s autonomous drive software company). “It will play an important role in our journey toward zero collisions.”
