Hexagon Positioning Intelligence Demonstrates Instant Lane-Level Accuracy for Autonomy and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

(Calgary, Canada, June 13, 2018) - Hexagon’s Positioning Intelligence division has successfully deployed TerraStar X Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) correction technology, which enables instant lane-level accuracy, ideal for autonomous automotive planning programs. In partnership with Ligado Networks, we have demonstrated delivery of TerraStar X technology over both satellite and cellular networks to position vehicles with 5-centimetre (2-inch) accuracy in under a minute. Combining TerraStar X technology with multiple delivery channels is a significant step towards the future of Autonomous X, where cars, UAVs, industrial vehicles, trains, and more will operate safely, securely, reliably, and efficiently.

TerraStar X technology is a breakthrough in GNSS. Built on the latest Precise Point Positioning (PPP) algorithms, it leverages the existing Hexagon capabilities in ground network infrastructure, correction data generation, and data packaging for delivery. By eliminating convergence time while providing high accuracy global positioning, TerraStar X will form the future of Hexagon’s correction services for safety of life applications and Autonomous X. When combined with automotive-grade GNSS receivers available through Hexagon Positioning Intelligence, this technology allows automotive customers to evaluate positioning performance in real-time using data delivered over the cellular network or the L-band frequency using Ligado’s SkyTerra satellite in North America.

"Ligado’s expertise in satellite delivery and proactive involvement in this project enabled rapid deployment of our TerraStar X correction technology over the test area," said Sara Masterson, Positioning Services Segment Manager with Hexagon’s Positioning Intelligence division. "Their unique spot-beam technology enables efficient delivery of the higher bandwidth correction data required for this application and adds a delivery method providing continental scale coverage.”

Hexagon has been providing highly reliable, precise GNSS corrections under VERIPOS, TerraStar, Oceanix, and SmartNet brands for over 20 years.  Our GNSS correction services empower world leading companies within precision agriculture, survey, marine, oil and gas, automotive, transportation, and emerging applications. We operate the world’s largest reference station network, consisting of over 4500 stations, with continuous quality monitoring and best in class support.

“Hexagon is uniquely positioned to offer end to end solutions from correction data generation through to GNSS positioning solutions in the vehicle”, said Brian Deobald, Vice President, Strategic Product and Ecosystem Development, Ligado Networks. “We are excited to partner with Hexagon on this opportunity to demonstrate the delivery of TerraStar X technology, using high throughput, cost-efficient satellite connectivity to enable superior performance and reliability for autonomous driving applications. 

Trial networks for customer evaluation are currently available in California, Arizona, and Michigan over satellite or cellular network, and in Germany using cellular delivery. The infrastructure is scalable, enabling timely geographic expansion to accommodate automotive development programs globally. Commercial solutions designed uniquely for the automotive market will be available in 2019.

For more information, please visit: www.hexagonpositioning.com/correction-services

About NovAtel

NovAtel is a global technology leader, pioneering end-to-end solutions for assured positioning for land, sea, and air. NovAtel designs, manufactures and sells high precision positioning technology developed for efficient and rapid integration. Its solutions are empowering intelligent positioning ecosystems in vital industries that depend on the ability to tackle the most complex challenges in the most demanding environments. Learn more at NovAtel.com.

NovAtel is part of Hexagon’s Positioning Intelligence division, which also includes VERIPOS and AutonomouStuff.

Hexagon is a global leader in sensor, software and autonomous solutions that are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, and quality across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, safety, and mobility applications. Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 24,000 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 5.2bn EUR. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.

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Jennifer Abrahams, Marketing Manager
T: +1-403-295-4963
E: jennifer.abrahams@hexagon.com