STMicroelectronics Relationship Supports Development of Map-enhanced ADAS

CHICAGO, Oct. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- NAVTEQ, a leading global provider of digital map data for location-based solutions and vehicle navigation, announces that STMicroelectronics has joined NAVTEQ's Map and Positioning Engine (MPE) partner program. A cornerstone of the program, making map-enhanced ADAS possible for all vehicles, is the implementation of an MPE (small printed) circuit board in-vehicle or distributed via a vehicle's electronics architecture.

Development of a prototype solution by STMicroelectronics advances the program by engaging a major automotive semiconductor supplier in provision of NAVTEQ's MPE Reference Solution. This includes the NAVTEQ MPE(TM) map, NAVTEQ's patented Electronic Horizon technology, GPS microprocessor, memory and all required software including map-matching, ADAS Interface Specification (ADASIS) and Controller Area Network (CAN) bus interface. STMicroelectronics has working samples available now and will have evaluation samples soon.

"NAVTEQ's leadership in developing an MPE strategy is a significant step forward in the industry's efforts to provide predictive road information that helps both drivers and vehicles react to current conditions," stated Kevin Gagnon, vice president of STMicroelectronics. "Our automotive-grade application processors with embedded GPS technology enable the development of targeted MPE applications for driver assistance, active safety and fuel economy."

"Providing a cost-effective method for enabling map-enhanced ADAS is essential to bringing safety and fuel economy features to all vehicles," commented Bob Denaro, NAVTEQ vice president of ADAS. "STMicroelectronics' implementation will be an exciting development for the industry."

The NAVTEQ MPE reference solution provides a recommended MPE specification to be used in conjunction with the NAVTEQ MPE map and the NAVTEQ Electronic Horizon(TM). STMicroelectronics utilization of NAVTEQ's MPE reference solution creates the foundation on which application developers can build map-enhanced ADAS solutions that are always on and do not require a navigation route.

About NAVTEQ

NAVTEQ is a leading provider of comprehensive digital map information for automotive navigation systems, mobile navigation devices, Internet-based mapping applications, and government and business solutions. NAVTEQ creates the digital maps and map content that power navigation and location-based services solutions around the world. The Chicago-based company was founded in 1985 and has more than 3,800 employees located in 194 offices and in 42 countries.

NAVTEQ, NAVTEQ Electronic Horizon, and NAVTEQ MPE are trademarks in the U.S. and other countries. All rights reserved.

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