HERE Technologies and Amap Form Strategic Alliance for Global Navigation Solutions

HERE Technologies, a location data and technology platform, and Amap, China's navigation provider and Alibaba Group subsidiary, announced today a strategic alliance to develop navigation and digital cockpit solutions for Chinese automotive brands expanding internationally.

The partnership brings together HERE's mapping services, which are present in more than 222 million vehicles across 200 countries and territories, with Amap's position as a supplier in China's automotive navigation market. The companies will co-develop AI-driven navigation systems optimized for software-defined vehicles (SDVs) as Chinese automakers increase their presence in global markets.

Chinese automotive manufacturers have been expanding their international footprint, particularly in the electric vehicle segment. The collaboration aims to provide these manufacturers with navigation technology that meets both Chinese market requirements and global compliance standards. The unified mapping architecture will support various in-vehicle functions including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), automated driving capabilities, and over-the-air updates.

HERE Technologies has operated in China since 2002 and currently provides services to more than 30 Chinese automotive brands. According to the company, Chinese original equipment manufacturers using HERE's technology represent the majority of China's vehicle exports. This existing presence provides a foundation for the expanded partnership with Amap.

The alliance addresses the technical challenges Chinese automakers face when entering new markets, where navigation systems must comply with different regulatory standards and consumer expectations. By combining HERE's global mapping infrastructure with Amap's expertise in the Chinese automotive ecosystem, the partnership aims to streamline this transition.

Frank Jiang, Vice President of Amap, stated that the company selected HERE based on its innovation capabilities, global reach, and support from local automakers.

Deon Newman, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Asia Pacific at HERE Technologies, emphasized the complementary strengths of both companies in enabling automakers to compete internationally.

The companies indicated they will explore additional opportunities to expand their collaboration in navigation and location-based services as the automotive industry continues its shift toward connected and intelligent mobility solutions.