Daimler CEO says more partners want in on HERE mapping business
Daimler's Dieter Zetsche confirmed the German automaker consortium behind HERE is in talks with new investors, including Renault-Nissan and Continental, to expand the digital mapping venture.
Daimler chief executive Dieter Zetsche has confirmed that the consortium of German automakers behind HERE, the digital mapping business, is in discussions with several potential new partners. The move comes as carmakers race to secure the technology needed for autonomous vehicles, with Zetsche citing interest from Renault-Nissan and Continental among others.
Audi, BMW and Daimler completed their €2.55 billion purchase of Nokia’s HERE mapping division in December 2015. The acquisition was driven by concerns that a technology company might take control of the mapping platform, potentially restricting access for carmakers. Since then, the German consortium has positioned HERE as a neutral platform, aiming to attract further investment and data-sharing partners.
Interest from Renault-Nissan and Continental
Zetsche told Reuters that Renault-Nissan and supplier Continental have publicly expressed their intention to join the HERE venture. He suggested that a binding commitment from at least one new partner could come soon. Zetsche also indicated that interest is not limited to these two companies, and that the consortium is open to further expansion.
Expanding the pool of investors and partners would not only spread costs but also increase the volume and diversity of traffic data feeding the HERE platform. This is seen as vital for the rapid development of autonomous driving features, which rely on highly detailed and constantly updated digital maps.
Why mapping is central to self-driving cars
Digital mapping has become a core battleground for car manufacturers developing autonomous technology. High-definition maps are essential for vehicles to interpret their surroundings, anticipate road conditions and navigate safely without human intervention. The HERE platform collects data from millions of vehicles, improving accuracy as more automakers join and contribute information.
Zetsche said the consortium intends to “aggressively expand” the HERE platform and will provide the necessary resources to achieve this. The strategy aims to make HERE the default mapping choice for a broad range of manufacturers, strengthening the automotive industry’s position as autonomous vehicles approach commercial reality.
The outcome of these negotiations could reshape the competitive landscape for digital mapping and autonomous driving. The consortium expects further announcements as talks progress.
