Google has expanded its Street View project by collaborating with Ford to map the challenging TransAmerica Trail (TAT). The initiative aims to provide off-road enthusiasts with detailed images of remote routes across the United States, enhancing adventure planning. Over a period of 35 days, a specially equipped Ford Bronco traversed the trail, which stretches approximately 5,900 miles from Port Orford, Oregon, to Nags Head, North Carolina.
This latest effort is part of Google’s ongoing ambition to create a comprehensive 360-degree map of the world, a project that began in 2007. Since then, Google has captured over 220 billion images, covering more than 10 million miles in over 100 countries. The mapping of the TAT is a significant milestone, marking the first time Google has teamed up directly with an automaker for such an undertaking.
Expedition Details and Support Vehicles
The journey involved not just the Bronco, but also a Ford Expedition Tremor and a Ranger, which provided logistical support throughout the trip. The Bronco was outfitted with the latest version of Google’s Street View camera, which is lightweight—less than 15 pounds—and can be mounted on any vehicle capable of accommodating a roof rack. The camera can also be paired with a laser scanner, enhancing the mapping capabilities.
During the expedition, the team captured a variety of landscapes, including rugged backcountry roads and remote terrains. Noteworthy locations mapped along the trail include the scenic Ophir Pass in Colorado, showcasing the diverse beauty of the route.
Future Mapping Initiatives
With the TAT now available on Google Maps, the partnership between Ford and Google is set to continue. Ford plans to further leverage this collaboration to explore additional hard-to-reach areas across North America. This initiative reflects a growing trend where technology and automotive industries intersect to improve navigation and enhance outdoor adventures.
As off-road enthusiasts prepare for their next journey, the availability of the TAT on Google Maps provides a valuable resource for planning. The detailed imagery will help users navigate the trails with confidence, making remote exploration more accessible than ever before.
