Digital maps are essential for future driver information systems. This article discusses the differences between normal maps and digital maps, and presents some uses to which the latter can be put( road network geometry/topology; road maintenance databanks; tourist and travel information; traffic management databanks; public transport scheduling; routing and monitoring of dangerous goods; and statistical databanks). A benchmark test of European digital road maps is then described. This test covered the motorways connecting Rennes, Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam, Arnhem, Bonn, Basel, St. Gotthard; Chiasso, Milan and Turin. The motorways linking Birmingham and London were also studied. During the benchmark tests the data recording methods used are evaluated as regards cost, time needed for recording, quality, and accuracy (up to date and completeness). The following recording methods are studied: (a) mobile data acquisition systems; (b) photogrammetric data acquisition systems; (c) road related point positioning; (d) interactive satellite picture processing; and (e) the use of already available data. The results are presented and discussed.
Abstract