HERE Study Reveals Japanese Riders Demand Higher Navigation Accuracy and Real-Time Traffic Data

HERE Technologies, a global leader in mapping and location data, today released new research titled 'Two-Wheeler Mobility Trends in APAC: Key Trends and Rider Behavior.' The study reveals that Japanese motorcycle riders have exceptionally high expectations for navigation systems, prioritizing route accuracy, reliable Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA), and real-time traffic information, especially when traveling on unfamiliar routes.

The research, commissioned by HERE Technologies and conducted by independent strategy firm Point Consulting, surveyed over 2,400 riders across six countries, including 400 respondents from Japan. The results highlight unique riding patterns and navigation behaviors within Japan's mature mobility environment.

Japanese Riding Patterns: Predictability and Demand for Precision
While Japanese riders follow predictable routines during weekday commutes, their reliance on navigation tools increases significantly during weekend touring. Key findings include:
- 80% use smartphone-based navigation apps.
- 67% cite route optimization as the most important feature.
- 66% value real-time traffic information to avoid delays.
- Only 27% expect voice guidance, indicating selective usage.

Japan showed the lowest navigation satisfaction among the six markets surveyed, reflecting extremely high standards for accuracy, clarity, and consistency.

Rider Priorities: Arriving Safely and Avoiding Uncertainty
- 42% prioritize 'arriving at the destination without incident.'
- 21% prioritize 'avoiding delays and unpredictable traffic.'

Gig Workers and Delivery Riders: Accuracy Equals Income
For gig workers, navigation quality directly impacts work efficiency and income. They demand high accuracy and reliable ETA to avoid late deliveries and improve customer satisfaction. They especially seek multi-stop route optimization and safer route suggestions.

Safety and Situational Awareness
Touring riders demand context-aware features such as accident warnings, weather hazards, and high-visibility route options for night riding.

Takashi Eda, President of HERE Japan, stated, 'Japan reminds us that reliability is everything in navigation. For Japanese riders, reliability is not an option; it is essential.' Masatsugu Nakamura from Kawasaki Motors Corp. added that the findings align with their observations, noting that the importance of route precision and high-quality map data is growing to support safe and efficient riding.