MapLite software developed by MIT could speed autonomy in rural areas
https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/maplite-mit-self-driving-software-rural/
Researchers at MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) have developed a type of autonomous driving software that navigates based on sensor input and basic GPS data, like what you'd find in a navigation app on your phone. The system is called MapLite, and it's reportedly shown great promise in testing.
MapLite uses lidar sensors in combination with an IMU and basic map data to provide self-driving functionality on rural roads.