Japan banks on 3D mapping deemed crucial for driverless cars

In this May 31, 2018, photo, a car monitor shows a 3D digital map as it's driven through Tokyo streets. Technology companies are racing to develop ultra-precise three-dimensional digital maps that can guide self-driving cars to within inches of where they are supposed to be - a hurdle the industry needs to clear if it hopes to deliver on its promise of widespread use of driverless vehicles. (AP Photo/Yuri Kageyama)

TOKYO: Technology companies are racing to develop ultra-precise digital maps that can guide self-driving cars within inches of where they should be – a hurdle the industry needs to clear if it hopes to deliver on its promise of widespread use of driverless vehicles.  

Japan’s government is backing a three-dimensional mapping system developed by Mitsubishi Electric Corp that includes a wealth of details such as trees and pedestrians. It promises to be off by no more than 25 centimetres (9.8in).