BEIJING, China — HERE Technologies, a global leader in location data and technology, has announced a strategic partnership with Amap, China’s top navigation provider and a subsidiary of Alibaba Group. The collaboration aims to co-develop advanced, AI-powered navigation and digital cockpit solutions for Chinese automotive brands.
The partnership is expected to accelerate the rollout of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) worldwide, combining HERE’s expertise in AI-driven mapmaking with Amap’s deep integration within China’s automotive ecosystem.
More than 222 million vehicles globally are already equipped with HERE’s onboard services. The company’s mapping and location data cover over 200 countries and territories, providing the scale, precision and reliability needed for next-generation SDV deployments.
Amap dominates China’s automotive navigation market and continues to play a central role as Chinese automakers redefine the digital driving experience. These manufacturers are setting new benchmarks in Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), AI navigation, and immersive digital cockpit innovation.
The HERE–Amap partnership will strengthen this transformation by delivering a global-ready navigation stack optimized for SDVs, setting a new standard for connected and intelligent mobility on the international stage.
At the heart of the partnership is HERE’s unified mapping architecture, which serves as a single data source for in-vehicle systems. This platform integrates HERE’s automotive-grade mapping and location services—powered by AI and machine learning—to support digital cockpit interfaces, electric vehicle (EV) services, ADAS, automated driving, and over-the-air (OTA) updates.
This approach enables Chinese automakers to develop globally compliant, future-ready SDV platforms tailored for international markets.
HERE’s presence in China’s automotive market dates back to 2002. Today, more than 30 Chinese automotive brands depend on HERE to power navigation, ADAS, and connected in-vehicle experiences that enhance safety, reliability, and personalization.
The company’s solutions support many of China’s largest vehicle exporters, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing intelligent mobility. Its long-standing alliances with Chinese system vendors provide a strong foundation for scaling high-performance navigation and digital cockpit solutions across diverse platforms.
Looking ahead, both companies plan to deepen their collaboration in navigation and location-based services, supporting the ongoing evolution of global intelligent mobility.
“Our partnership is built on mutual trust and a long-standing relationship,” said Frank Jiang, Vice President of Amap. “Amap chose HERE for its proven innovation, global reach, and strong ties with local automakers. Together, we’re building a navigation system that meets the demands of Chinese automakers expanding worldwide.”
“This is a case of world-class meeting world-class,” added Deon Newman, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific at HERE Technologies. “Amap is a powerhouse in China’s navigation ecosystem, and HERE brings cutting-edge mapping and location technology with global precision and reliability. Together, we’re enabling the next generation of automakers to succeed on the world stage.” (GlobeNewswire)
