3D mapping, navigation from Conti, others on cusp of mainstream

AUBURN HILLS, Mich.—Continental A.G. has teamed up with global mapping company HERE and Leia Inc. to develop a 3D navigation system, which the companies say can improve driver safety as well as the "wow factor" in the driving experience.

Using Leia's Lightfield technology, Conti said in a Jan. 12 press release that the natural 3D effect—featuring depiction of buildings and topography, visible from all angles so that passengers also can view it—can be seen without specific glasses or eye-tracking sensors.

Three-dimensional maps for 75 global cities—via HERE's extensive mapping database— are available, with more to come, Conti said.

"3D display technology not only brings an impressive new factor into the cockpit but, with the right content, can also create a more intuitive interaction between driver and vehicle, contributing to enhanced driving safety," said Jens Brandt, vice president of Human Machine Interface, Continental North America. "It is exciting to contribute to a better and safer driving environment by bringing together HERE premium map content and Leia's Lightfield software with our expertise in automotive human-machine interface solutions."

According to Conti, driver distraction, especially in the age of cell phones, texts and tweets, is among the top causes of crashes. This 3D navigation system can help prevent such mishaps.

"In complex driving scenarios, such as city traffic, following the directions from the navigation system while safely maneuvering can be a real challenge for many drivers," Brandt said. "An accurate spatial reproduction of the real-world offered by the 3D solution from Continental, HERE and Leia can help drivers grasp the necessary information quicker, better orientate themselves and stay more attentive to the driving task."

The mapping content comes from HERE Premier 3D Cities. Urban areas and buildings are displayed with accurate location, elevation and façade color. 3D terrain models also provide elevations for representative depictions of a city's layout.

Conti debuted this and other driving technologies at the All-Digital CES 2021 Jan. 11-14.