In this article, we will discuss in detail how navigation is currently changing and what we should expect in the near future. Our automotive experts will also share their practices and insights on implementing embedded car navigation solutions for manufacturers in the second part of this article.

 

What is modern car navigation and its features?

 

Modern car navigation is a complex system that integrates with other vehicle systems to access more features of a smartphone. Cloud-connected in-vehicle navigation systems feature online and offline location search, 3D HD maps, voice assistance, OTA map updates, real-time traffic information, and POI search to optimize the guidance and driving experience.

 

 

In-vehicle guidance is generally available in three ways:

Map display for a specific area or region;

A display with a list of next turns;

Turn-by-turn navigation displays with pop-up windows about the next turn.

In many modern vehicles, such displays are integrated to show the driver all the necessary functions in a single display, thus reducing distractions while navigating.

For the average user, in-vehicle navigation differs little from the free maps found in a smartphone, and also includes a GPS receiver, route directions, a voice guidance speaker, best route calculations, distance and time. Some purchased navigation apps may include safety camera warnings or route planning. It is also possible to download an offline map of all the desired attractions in your area. However, it may take up additional storage space on your smartphone.

For this reason, online maps that use GPS and 3G/4G connectivity will download maps of the necessary routes in parts so that your phone is not overloaded with other data. Unfortunately, online maps become useless when signal is lost in remote areas. With the dedicated GPS receiver in the embedded car navigation system, drivers can access maps and continue on their route even if the connection is lost.

 

Real-time road conditions via FM radio

 

Today, advanced navigation in modern cars can function with the same online maps and traffic data available on smartphones. However, in contrast to in-car navigation, where smartphones cannot provide real-time traffic information without an Internet connection, car navigation utilizes Traffic Message Channel (TMC) technology.

In this case, the encoded traffic and travel information is transmitted to the FM radio broadcast with the help of Radio Data System (RDS), which collects all the traffic information from police stations, cameras, traffic control centers, road construction reports, etc. A backup plan is created for drivers who are unable to use the LAN network to receive critical data on unfavorable road conditions, collisions, construction alerts, and more.

 

Destination Input

 

Step-by-step destination entry is an important navigation feature that allows drivers to plan their entire route. With this option, drivers can set one or more destinations for long trips, entering different modes.