Google has expanded its Street View project by successfully mapping the TransAmerica Trail (TAT) in partnership with Ford. This initiative, which began in 2007, aims to create a comprehensive 360-degree view of the world’s roads. The latest effort involved a Ford Bronco outfitted with a cutting-edge Street View camera, capturing detailed images over a journey spanning 35 days and 5,900 miles.
The Bronco traversed 13 states, starting in Port Orford, Oregon, and concluding in Nags Head, North Carolina. Along the way, it documented various terrains, from backcountry roads to remote landscapes. Support vehicles, including a Ford Expedition Tremor and a Ranger, accompanied the Bronco throughout the journey, demonstrating the vehicles’ capabilities on challenging routes.
Mapping the TAT allows off-road enthusiasts to better plan their adventures, as the full trail is now available on Google Maps. The project highlights not only the Bronco’s ruggedness but also Ford’s innovative partnership with Google, marking the first time the tech giant has collaborated directly with an automaker to chart a route.
The latest-generation Street View camera, unveiled in 2022, can be paired with a laser scanner and is compatible with a wide range of vehicles that have a roof rack. Weighing less than 15 pounds, this technology enhances the quality and accessibility of the mapping process. As part of this collaboration, Ford plans to extend its partnership with Google Maps, suggesting that more remote areas across North America will be mapped in the future.
With the successful mapping of the TransAmerica Trail, both companies have demonstrated the potential for innovative technology to enhance outdoor exploration and adventure planning. The integration of advanced imaging techniques in off-road vehicles not only showcases their durability but also opens new avenues for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore less-traveled paths.