Mapbox has detailed the role it will provide in supporting a new in-car navigation experience provided by the BMW Group in its forthcoming models equipped with BMW/Mini Operating System 9. Among the new features provided by the navigation system are an immersive 3D map style with detailed buildings and dynamic lighting, combined with advanced navigation features such as charging-optimized route planning. The new system is set to launch first in the BMW X1 and new Mini Family models, followed by the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and BMW X2.
For the new system, Mapbox will provide the BMW Group with advanced map styling tools, 3D building data, and a high-performance map rendering engine. The BMW Group will utilize these tools to integrate data from numerous sources and providers, while publishing updates continuously and more frequently. Both the Mini and BMW models will leverage Mapbox for EV services, such as range prediction and EV-optimized routing.
Integrated into the navigation experience, the charging-optimized routes consider many factors – including vehicle characteristics, road data, and charging station data – to help drivers plan safer, more efficient, and more personalized trips. Mapbox services also integrate with the BMW Group’s own cloud systems, allowing the OEM to surface relevant custom content to its drivers, such as partner charging locations and certified service centers. This map data is predictively downloaded by the vehicle in order for it to be accessible in areas with a low cellular signal, allowing for a more seamless navigation experience.
Within the vehicle cockpit, Mapbox’s map rendering technology will help the BMW Group optimize the visuals delivered in the infotainment systems of its new models across various screen layouts and map styles. This will, for example, support the new Mini, which is set to offer seven different map styles that dynamically adjust to a driver’s choice of infotainment theme. The Mapbox Navigation SDK likewise allows for multiple linked displays of maps and routes across the central display, information cluster, and head-up display.