Germany’s Bosch to introduce cheaper sensors for automated driving

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Updated on Mar 11, 2020
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  • Robert Bosch created a sensor that allows cars to attain a three-dimensional view when driving.
  • Bosch aims at reducing the cost of sensors that use Lidar technology for speedy developments of autonomous cars.
  • Analysts say the sensors must be priced at $200 or less to be produced commercially.
  • Big names like GM, Ford, and Alphabet are currently using the Lidar sensors.

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On Thursday, the German technology company, Robert Bosch stated that the company has fostered a sensor that allows cars to attain a three-dimensional view when driving. The multinational aims to make this technology affordable to make speedy developments for driverless cars.

An Insight Into Bosch’s Lidar Technology

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The German Multinational is all set to reveal its personally manufactured lidar sensor at the Consumer Electronics Show being held next week in Las Vegas. According to him, the sensor will work in a number of proximities on highways and, in the city using radar and camera technologies.

The technology makes use of light-based sensors to allow cars to have a three-dimensional view of where they are going, however, it is currently quite expensive to be used expansively. But, if the technology was to be made affordable, the data obtained from its use could allow driverless cars to map the distance to other objects and people on the road.

Various start-ups are currently working on this technology but, they do not have the credibility or resources of the German multinational. Harald Kroeger, a management board member of Bosch stated that it is their progress that is making self-driving an attainable possibility.

From bulky spinning devices placed on the roof of cars, the technology is now in solid-state devices that can be placed on other parts of the car like, close to headlights.

Analysts Say The Sensors Must Be Priced At $200 Or Less To Be Produced Commercially

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Currently, they are selling for no more than $10,000, however, analysts believe that they must be priced at $200 or less to be produced commercially.

Though technology and pricing details for lidar remain unknown, a spokesman conveyed that they are working on making the technology available in the market.

It is common knowledge that the development of driverless cars has faced several obstacles such as regulatory concerns forcing tech companies and automakers to reevaluate their plans.

Lidar Technology as of now is in use of companies like Ford Motor Co, General Motors Co, and Alphabet Inc’s Waymo. Apple Inc is making efforts to process the technology.

On the other hand, its high price and limited capabilities have deterred others such as Elon Musk’s Tesla Inc whose vehicles rely on their radars and cameras to be their vision for automated driving.

Numerous suppliers which include Continental, Aptiv, and Valeo are trying to emulate the technology. In July, Valeo claimed that they have attained a total of $560 million worth of orders for their products that use lidar sensors.

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