SK Telecom creates accurate road maps for self-driving cars based on 5g

South Korean provider SK Telecom and three cities in the country have signed an agreement to develop an infrastructure for self-driving cars over the 5G network. It is about accurate city maps that are updated in real time and show information about the roads.

SK Telecom reports that it is an ‘HD folder’ that can be read by computers and systems. This must be done with centimeter precision, showing essential information for self-driving cars, such as lane information, road conditions, speed limits and the gradient of the roads. According to the provider, this kind of data is considered a key element for enabling level 4 autonomy.

SK Telecom uses its so-called Dynamic Data Platform to develop these cards. This is a 5g based solution to be able to update the hd maps in real time and automatically. This is done on the basis of road observation data from Advanced Driver Assistance Systems that are connected to the 5G network. SK Telecom will install these systems and 5G modules in public transport and government vehicles. This allows the vehicles to detect and report any changes in road conditions.

For this project, the South Korean provider has signed an agreement with the Incheon Free Economic Zone, a partnership of the cities of Songdo, Yeongjong and Cheongna. These three urban areas cover a total of almost 133km² and the map should eventually cover the entire area, starting with Songdo.