On the Ecosystem of High-Definition (HD) Maps

High-definition (HD) maps have recently gained critical importance in automated driving applications due to their ability to contain a high density of information, far exceeding traditional maps. They offer precise instructions for automated driving software agents. However, the construction and maintenance of HD maps present several challenges. Moreover, the unprecedented detail and precision of geo-referenced information extraction have sparked new potential applications. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the extensive body of literature on HD maps. We categorize the principal tasks discussed in the literature into eight main sub-areas. These sub-areas encompass the research work focused on the creation, maintenance, and various applications of HD maps. We underscore key directions in each sub-area and delve into the associated challenges. Further, we spotlight potential future directions to broaden the scope of HD maps usage in an array of applications.