LOOKING AT LIDAR: WILL THIS TECH MAKE AVS HAPPEN?

EV Channels Review

This episode of Autoline After Hours delves into the critical role of Lidar technology in the advancement of autonomous vehicles (AVs). Guest Mircea Gradu from Velodyne Lidar explains the fundamental principles of Lidar, emphasizing its ability to function independently of lighting conditions, making it crucial for safety, particularly in low-light scenarios where pedestrian fatalities are high. The discussion highlights Lidar's effectiveness in avoiding collisions, contrasting it with camera and radar systems. The conversation also touches upon the evolution of Lidar from bulky spinning units to more embeddable solid-state products, with significant cost reductions bringing the price point into the hundreds of dollars, making it more feasible for mass-market vehicles. The panel also explores the broader automotive industry's shift towards electrification and AVs, with a focus on GM's ambitious EV strategy and the ongoing global chip shortage, which is impacting production across the industry due to supply chain disruptions and increased demand from various sectors.