Google patents GPS system to help you avoid potholes

Google Maps could offer an alternative, smoother route

Google patents GPS system to help you avoid potholes

Google has patented a system that will let your sat nav warn you of bumpy roads using sensors fitted to other vehicles.

The GPS system will monitor vibrations inside cars to work out how bumpy a road is and pinpoint where potholes are.

This will then let you choose an alternative, smoother route avoiding the most potholed roads.

The data is also likely to be passed onto Google’s own self-driving cars to provide a more comfortable ride for their passengers.

The company already uses GPS data from phones running Google Maps to monitor traffic conditions and provide routes which avoid jams.

A similar system is already in the pipeline from Jaguar Land Rover. This uses sensors to profile the road’s surface and adjust the car’s dampers in preparation for hitting a pothole.

This information can also be shared between cars fitted with this system – and JLR is also working on using it to report deteriorating road surfaces with local councils.

Related Articles

Motoring Research team
Motoring Research team
News, reviews, advice and features from the award-winning Motoring Resarch editorial team.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Find a Car Review

Latest

How to get the best price for your PCP trade-in car

Our guide explains how to the highest price for your trade-in car when a PCP finance agreement comes to an end.

Best luxury SUVs to buy in 2024

We round up the best luxury SUVs you can buy, including the Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga, Range Rover and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

Aston Martin DBX707 updated with fresh interior and new tech

The DBX707 performance SUV has gained Aston Martin’s updated infotainment system and a new interior design for 2024.

2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance revealed… and it’s even faster

With 460hp, four-wheel drive and adaptive suspension, the new electric Tesla Model 3 Performance is priced from £59,990.