HERE Technologies, a global leader in location data, and Amap, China's premier navigation provider and an Alibaba subsidiary, have announced a strategic alliance. This partnership is designed to co-develop advanced, AI-driven navigation and digital cockpit solutions specifically for Chinese automotive brands as they expand their presence in international markets.
HERE Technologies and Amap form a strategic alliance for next-gen AI navigation.
The partnership targets Chinese automakers expanding into global markets.
It combines HERE's global mapping scale with Amap's expertise in China's auto sector.
Solutions will support software-defined vehicles (SDVs), ADAS, and digital cockpits.
The unified mapping architecture will serve as a single data source for all vehicle functions.
The alliance aims to accelerate the global rollout of intelligent, connected vehicles.
The partnership directly addresses the strategic needs of Chinese automakers, who are setting global benchmarks in electric vehicles (EVs), Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), and immersive digital cockpits. By combining HERE's AI-powered mapmaking across over 200 countries with Amap's leading solutions in the Chinese automotive sector, the alliance provides a globally-ready navigation stack. This enables Chinese brands to deploy software-defined vehicles (SDVs) that meet international standards for safety, reliability, and compliance.
A core technical benefit of this collaboration is the application of HERE's unified mapping architecture. This architecture acts as a single, automotive-grade data source powering a wide range of in-vehicle functions. It integrates mapping and location services powered by advanced AI to enable digital cockpit experiences, EV-specific services, ADAS, automated driving, and seamless over-the-air (OTA) updates. This ensures that Chinese automakers can build future-ready vehicle platforms capable of delivering a consistent and advanced user experience worldwide.
The alliance is built on a foundation of mutual strength and a shared vision for the future of mobility. “This is a case of world-class meeting world-class,” said Deon Newman, SVP and GM of Asia Pacific at HERE Technologies. “Amap is a powerhouse in China’s navigation ecosystem, and HERE brings together cutting-edge mapping and location technology with global precision, scale and automotive-grade reliability. Together, we’re enabling the next generation of automakers to succeed on the world stage.” This collaboration is poised to be a significant catalyst in the global evolution of intelligent, software-defined vehicles.
Founded in 2002, Amap is a leading provider of digital map, navigation and real-time traffic information in China. With a focus on "promoting technological innovation and advancing with the ecosystem," Amap established an integrated one-stop transportation service platform. The platform provides various transportation services covering driving, ride-hailing, buses, subways, cycling, walking, trains, and flights. Amap will continue to develop public welfare initiatives such as barrier-free transportation and eco-friendly transportation, which have received positive recognition from the industry and users.
HERE is the global leader in mapping and location technology. For 40 years, we’ve been powering innovation for the world’s most recognizable companies: from launching our first digital map in 1985, to shaping the future of software-defined vehicles today. With the industry’s freshest and richest unified map and a portfolio of products, services and solutions that serve the needs of multiple industries, HERE reveals opportunities that drive progress and unlock new possibilities for every moving vehicle.
TechIntelPro empowers B2B technology decision-makers with the latest industry trends, deep insights, leadership perspectives and actionable intelligence to drive both organizational and professional milestones—and thrive on the tech pulse.