HD maps—the hidden sensors that help autonomous vehicles see round corners
Autonomous vehicles (AVs) will use vision sensors to scrutinise all visible elements of the road, but cameras and laser scanners cannot see around corners. Like any good driver, preparation is key to ensuring the vehicle enters the unknown in a safe manner, slowing down in case of traffic or a spot of black ice. Whereas human drivers have to rely on their senses to prepare, the AV has an ace up its sleeve: high definition (HD) maps.