Field test of automotive navi route calculations
Effective navigation testing under real conditions To ensure reliable navigation, defined routes are tested and live data such as traffic jams or...
1 min read
Industry
Automotive
Background
An automotive manufacturer conducted comprehensive testing of its navigation system’s overall functionality under real-world conditions for its non-European headquarters.
Challenge
The testing scope included various navigation platforms across both legacy systems and new electric and hybrid vehicles. The high complexity of these platforms within the context of the overall vehicle architecture necessitated a combination of experience-based and exploratory testing.
Performance
Tests were conducted manually both inside the vehicle and on hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) test benches. Navigation was evaluated from the user’s perspective, covering voice control, route calculation, and real-time traffic data. All results were systematically documented and analyzed.
Benefit
The test results contributed to the targeted development of market-aligned and efficient navigation software, ensuring a high-quality user experience.
Practical tests for optimized navigation
Over a period of several months, various navigation systems were tested directly in the vehicle using proprietary software, hardware, firmware and different map and live data providers. The tests covered vehicles of all drive types, including hybrid, electric, petrol and diesel, as well as older models with new updates and newer models with current or not yet introduced platforms. While some systems ran with established software versions, others were tested with staging software, which required special attention.
The tests included map and routing data, live data integration (traffic situation, weather, parking situation, etc.), voice recognition and voice control, system stability and user-friendliness. Among other things, roads, junctions, traffic circles, lanes, topographical maps, POIs, traffic data and charging infrastructure for electric vehicles were tested. Particular emphasis was placed on the consistency of the navigation data, especially with regard to updates and precise ETA calculations.
As the test requirements often changed at short notice, experience played a crucial role. Exploratory testing helped to identify potential weaknesses, while close coordination between testers and the international team enabled efficient implementation.
Structured analysis for sustainable improvements
All test results were systematically recorded in Jira and supplemented by logs, photos, videos and reports that allowed detailed analyses of route calculation, map display, system reactions, camera and sensor data as well as usability aspects. This comprehensive documentation enabled the test results to be passed on directly to the developers, who immediately rectified many of the problems identified. The findings thus led to immediate improvements in the navigation software and continue to contribute to the long-term optimization of the system.
We know our way around navigation systems and look forward to exchanging ideas.
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