BMW drivers to be first to receive real-time connected vehicle safety services from Here

Here Technologies has launched a cloud-based system which aggregates real-time data generated by cars of different brands to provide live road safety information.

The company then delivers this to drivers and passengers through the car's head unit display, or to its advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to support automated safety functions.

BMW will be the first automaker to offer Here Safety Services in production vehicles from mid-2018. The services will first become available to drivers and passengers across Western Europe and North America.

Dieter May, senior vice-president digital services and business Models at BMW Group, said: "Digital real-time maps and location-based services form the basis for the mobility of tomorrow.

"In summer 2017, the BMW Group introduced the first stage of local hazard warning based on intelligent connectivity and car-to-car communications.

"We are delighted that the next stage will follow from mid-2018 and that BMW drivers will be the first to benefit from this enhanced service.

"All this data on local hazards, such as the scene of an accident or dangerous weather conditions, can be shared on an anonymous basis to warn drivers in good time and so further improve safety."

The fleet providing live sensor data to Here is expected to grow quickly after launch, surpassing more than 10 million vehicles in 2019.

The Safety Services Suite consists of Here Hazard Warnings and Here Road Signs. Here Hazard Warnings, which has been developed using algorithms and know-how from both Here and BMW, provides drivers and passengers with information about potential road hazards, accidents and extreme weather events, such as slippery roads and reduced visibility.

Here Road Signs provides up-to-date traffic signage information, including permanent and dynamic speed limits.

Ralf Herrtwich, head of automotive at Here, said: "The Herer Safety Services Suite demonstrates how Here transforms singular pieces of sensor data into valuable new services that make driving safer and more comfortable," said .

"As cars become increasingly connected and intelligent, the Here Open Location Platform is the place where the entire industry can contribute to and access differentiating products and services that not long ago seemed out of reach."