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Showing posts with label AEVA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AEVA. Show all posts

Sunday, March 9, 2025

From Google's Waymo, to Amazon's Zooks and Tesla's future Robo Taxi intentions, suppliers to these companies could see great gains!

 


Here is a ranked list of publicly traded companies supplying either Waymo or Tesla with technology, software, or components for their self-driving efforts. The ranking is based on influence and technological impact in the self-driving space.

Most Influential Public Companies Supplying Waymo & Tesla:

  1. NVIDIA (NVDA) – Provides AI computing platforms critical for autonomous driving.
  2. Intel (INTC) – Owns Mobileye, a leader in vision-based autonomous driving tech.
  3. Samsung Electronics (SSNLF, KRX: 005930) – Supplies Tesla’s Hardware 4 (HW4) self-driving chips.
  4. Magna International (MGA) – Supplies vehicle systems and components for self-driving.
  5. Panasonic (PCRFY, TYO: 6752) – Tesla’s primary battery supplier, key for EV autonomy.
  6. Bosch (Privately Held, but key supplier, included for reference) – Provides key sensors for autonomous driving.
  7. Continental AG (CTTAY, ETR: CON) – Develops electronic systems and sensors used in AVs.
  8. Aptiv (APTV) – Leader in autonomous driving safety and sensor tech.
  9. Luminar Technologies (LAZR) – Lidar sensor supplier, vital for perception in AVs.
  10. Zeekr (Geely's Subsidiary, HK: 0175 via parent company Geely Auto) – Partnered with Waymo for robotaxi production.

These publicly traded companies are among the most influential in advancing Tesla's and Waymo’s self-driving technology. Would you like a deeper look into any of these?

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Several of the previously mentioned publicly traded companies supply not only Waymo and Tesla but also other players in the autonomous vehicle (AV) and robotaxi market, including Zoox (an Amazon subsidiary) and others. Here's an overview:​

1. NVIDIA (NVDA):

  • Mobileye: In November 2021, NVIDIA partnered with Luminar Technologies to enhance lidar capabilities for autonomous vehicles.

2. Intel (INTC):

  • Mobileye: An Intel subsidiary, Mobileye has collaborated with various automakers, including BMW, Nissan, and Volkswagen, to integrate its autonomous driving technologies.en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1

3. Luminar Technologies (LAZR):

4. Aurora Innovation (AUR):

5. Hyundai Motor Company (HYMTF):

  • Avride: In March 2025, Hyundai partnered with self-driving technology startup Avride to expand its robotaxi fleet, deploying 100 Hyundai Ioniq 5 vehicles equipped with Avride's autonomous technology.en.wikipedia.org+2theverge.com+2reuters.com+2

6. Magna International (MGA):

  • General Motors (GM): Magna has been involved in developing technologies pertinent to autonomous driving and has collaborated with companies like GM on self-driving initiatives.

7. Bosch:

  • Daimler (Mercedes-Benz): Bosch has partnered with Daimler to develop autonomous driving systems, particularly for urban environments.

8. Continental AG (CTTAY):

  • Various Automakers: Continental supplies sensors and control units essential for autonomous driving functionalities to multiple automakers.en.wikipedia.org

9. Aptiv (APTV):

10. Mobileye (MBLY): - Lyft: Mobileye has partnered with Lyft to integrate its self-driving technology into Lyft's ride-hailing platform, aiming to deploy robotaxis by 2026.

These collaborations highlight the interconnected ecosystem of suppliers and manufacturers working together to advance autonomous driving technologies across various platforms and services.

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Trump Tariffs impact on supply chains for AVs

The recent imposition of new U.S. tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China is poised to significantly impact companies supplying components and technology to autonomous vehicle (AV) manufacturers like Waymo, Tesla, and Zoox. Here's an analysis of the potential effects on these suppliers:​

1. Increased Operational Costs:

  • NVIDIA (NVDA): As a supplier of advanced computing platforms for AVs, NVIDIA relies on a global supply chain. Tariffs on Chinese imports, including electronic components, could escalate production costs, potentially leading to higher prices for their products.

  • Intel (INTC): Through its subsidiary Mobileye, Intel provides vision-based systems for autonomous driving. Tariffs affecting semiconductor components from China may increase manufacturing expenses, influencing the pricing of their technologies.

  • Samsung Electronics (SSNLF): Supplying processors for Tesla's self-driving systems, Samsung's production costs could rise due to tariffs on Chinese electronic parts, potentially affecting their profit margins.

2. Disruption of Supply Chains:

  • Magna International (MGA): As a global automotive supplier, Magna's operations span multiple countries. Tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada could disrupt their supply chains, leading to delays and increased costs in delivering components to AV manufacturers.

  • Panasonic (PCRFY): Partnering with Tesla for battery production, Panasonic's supply chain might be affected by tariffs on raw materials or components sourced from China, potentially increasing production costs.

3. Strategic Reassessment:

  • Bosch: Providing sensors and components for autonomous vehicles, Bosch may need to reassess its sourcing and manufacturing strategies to mitigate the impact of tariffs, possibly leading to increased operational costs.

  • Continental AG (CTTAY): As a supplier of electronic systems and sensors, Continental might face higher costs due to tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting a reevaluation of their supply chain strategies.

4. Market Competitiveness:

  • Aptiv (APTV): Specializing in autonomous driving technologies, Aptiv could experience increased costs due to tariffs on electronic components from China, potentially affecting their competitiveness in the AV market.

  • Luminar Technologies (LAZR): Supplying lidar sensors essential for AVs, Luminar might face higher production costs if components are sourced from tariff-affected regions, influencing their pricing strategies.

5. Regulatory and Compliance Challenges:

  • Zeekr (via Geely Auto, HK: 0175): Partnering with Waymo for robotaxi production, Zeekr could encounter increased costs due to tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles and components, potentially affecting their collaboration dynamics.en.wikipedia.org

The new U.S. tariffs are likely to increase operational costs, disrupt supply chains, and necessitate strategic adjustments for these suppliers. These changes could lead to higher prices for AV manufacturers and, ultimately, consumers. Companies may need to explore alternative sourcing options, renegotiate supplier contracts, or absorb additional costs to maintain their market positions.

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Bottom Line for Investors in These Companies:

The new U.S. tariffs will create short-term headwinds for companies supplying technology and components to Waymo, Tesla, Zoox, and other AV makers. However, the long-term growth potential of autonomous driving and electric vehicles (EVs) remains intact. Here’s a breakdown of the key investment takeaways:


1. Companies Likely to Feel the Most Pressure (Short-Term Risks)

  • Luminar Technologies (LAZR) → Heavy reliance on Chinese-manufactured lidar components could raise costs.
  • Zeekr (via Geely Auto, HK: 0175) → Tariffs on China-made vehicles/components may impact partnerships like Waymo’s robotaxis.
  • Magna International (MGA) & Panasonic (PCRFY) → Cross-border tariffs on vehicle components from Mexico/Canada may increase supply chain costs.

📉 Investor Outlook: These stocks could see short-term volatility as they navigate higher costs and supply chain disruptions.


2. Companies That Will Need to Adapt (Neutral to Slightly Negative)

  • Intel (INTC) & NVIDIA (NVDA) → If China retaliates, semiconductor supply chains may be affected.
  • Bosch & Continental AG (CTTAY) → Higher tariffs could make AV components pricier, impacting profit margins.
  • Aptiv (APTV) → Autonomous vehicle technology may become more expensive to produce.

📊 Investor Outlook: These companies have strong global supply chains and could offset costs over time. Look for dips to buy long-term.


3. Companies That Could Benefit (Long-Term Winners)

  • Samsung (SSNLF) & NVIDIA (NVDA) → If U.S. companies shift away from Chinese suppliers, these firms could gain more business.
  • Mobileye (Owned by Intel - INTC) → U.S. automakers may look for domestic AV technology, favoring Mobileye over Chinese alternatives.
  • Aptiv (APTV) → If the U.S. increases domestic EV/AV production, Aptiv could gain new contracts.

🚀 Investor Outlook: These companies could emerge stronger as the U.S. onshores more production.


Final Verdict for Investors

Long-Term Investors: Buy on dips for NVIDIA (NVDA), Intel (INTC), Samsung (SSNLF), and Mobileye (via INTC)—these are essential for AV and AI growth.
⚠️ Short-Term Traders: Expect volatility in Luminar (LAZR), Magna (MGA), and Geely (0175) due to direct tariff impacts.
🏆 Winners: Companies that shift supply chains away from China or dominate U.S. AV tech (Mobileye, NVIDIA, Aptiv) stand to benefit in the long run.

(Prepared with ChatGPT 4o)

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Lidar technology is crucial to self driving technology stacks. Here are our top three picks now!

 



1. Hesai Group

Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Shanghai, China, has rapidly emerged as a global leader in lidar technology, catering to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous vehicles, robotics, and industrial applications.

Technological Advancements and Competitive Edge

Hesai's technological prowess is anchored in its semiconductor-based transmitter/receiver system design, utilizing application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). This design offers significant advantages over traditional lidar systems, including enhanced performance, reduced size, and cost-effectiveness. The company's commitment to innovation is evident in its extensive patent portfolio, comprising over 1,700 patents.

First-Mover Advantage

As the first lidar company globally to deliver over 100,000 units in a single month (December 2024), Hesai has established a formidable first-mover advantage. This milestone underscores the company's mass production capabilities and positions it favorably to capture a significant share of the expanding lidar market.

Clientele and Partnerships

Hesai has secured more than 100 design wins across 21 automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including partnerships with three of China's top five automakers. Notable clients encompass industry leaders such as Baidu, Cruise, Aurora Innovation, DiDi, and Pony.ai. In the robotics sector, Hesai serves customers in over 40 countries, with applications spanning delivery robots, autonomous lawn mowers, and cleaning robots.

Financial Performance and Cash Position

In 2023, Hesai reported net revenues of RMB1.877 billion (approximately US$264.4 million), marking a 56.1% increase from the previous year. The company achieved a blended gross margin of 35.2% and positive operating cash flow for the first time. As of September 30, 2023, Hesai's cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash and short-term investments, totaled RMB3.207 billion (US$439.6 million), reflecting a robust cash position to support ongoing operations and strategic initiatives.

Market Position and Outlook

Hesai maintains a leading position in the global lidar market, commanding a 37% market share by revenue in 2023. The company plans to expand its annual production capacity to over 2 million units in 2025, aligning with the anticipated growth in the automotive and robotics sectors. This strategic expansion underscores Hesai's commitment to scaling operations and meeting increasing market demand.

In summary, Hesai Group's technological innovations, strategic partnerships, and solid financial foundation position it as a prominent player in the lidar industry, well-equipped to capitalize on future growth opportunities.

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2. Aeva Technologies, Inc

 




Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, is a leading developer of sensing and perception systems, specializing in Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) LiDAR technology. The company focuses on applications across autonomous driving, industrial automation, consumer electronics, and beyond.

Technological Innovations and Competitive Edge

Aeva's core innovation lies in its 4D LiDAR technology, which simultaneously measures the 3D position and instant velocity of objects. This capability enables autonomous systems to perceive their environment with greater accuracy and reliability. Unlike traditional Time-of-Flight LiDAR systems, Aeva's FMCW approach offers advantages such as longer range, higher resolution, and immunity to interference from other sensors and sunlight. The company's LiDAR-on-Chip technology integrates key components onto a silicon photonics platform, resulting in compact, scalable, and cost-effective solutions suitable for mass production.

Product Portfolio

Aeva's product lineup includes:

  • Aeries II: A compact 4D LiDAR sensor with a 120-degree field of view, designed for automotive-grade applications. It features Ultra Resolution, providing real-time camera-level images without motion blur.

  • Atlas: A long-range, automotive-grade 4D LiDAR designed for industrial and automotive production programs, offering high performance in a compact form factor.

Strategic Partnerships and Clientele

Aeva has established significant partnerships across various industries:

  • Daimler Truck: In 2024, Aeva secured a $1 billion deal to supply its 4D LiDAR sensors for Daimler's autonomous Freightliner Cascadia trucks, slated for production in 2026 and deployment on U.S. roads by 2027.

  • May Mobility: Aeva's technology has been selected for integration into May Mobility's next-generation autonomous transit vehicles, based on the Toyota Sienna platform, with plans to deploy thousands of vehicles through 2028.

  • Nikon: Aeva partnered with Nikon to incorporate its 4D LiDAR technology into industrial metrology applications, enhancing precision in manufacturing processes.

Financial Performance and Market Position

As of September 30, 2024, Aeva reported trailing twelve-month (TTM) revenue of approximately $7.98 million, reflecting significant growth from $4.31 million in 2023. The company has maintained a strong cash position, with total assets amounting to $198.1 million and total debt of $5.6 million as of June 30, 2024.

Aeva's stock is publicly traded on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol AEVA. As of February 11, 2025, the stock price was $4.12, with a market capitalization of approximately $220 million.

Outlook

Aeva's innovative approach to LiDAR technology, combined with strategic partnerships and a focus on scalable production, positions the company to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced sensing solutions in autonomous systems and industrial applications. Continued investment in research and development, along with the successful execution of key contracts, will be critical to sustaining its competitive advantage and driving future growth.

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3. Luminar Technologies, Inc



Established in 2012 and headquartered in Orlando, Florida, is a prominent automotive technology company specializing in light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors and perception software. The company's mission is to usher in a new era of vehicle safety and autonomy by providing advanced sensing solutions for passenger and commercial vehicles.

Technological Innovations and Competitive Edge

Luminar has developed its LiDAR technology from the chip level up, resulting in high-performance, long-range sensors that enhance vehicle safety and enable autonomous driving capabilities. The company's flagship product, the Iris LiDAR sensor, offers accurate real-time 3D data, facilitating confident decision-making and smooth maneuvers at high speeds, in urban environments, and under various weather conditions.

In addition to hardware, Luminar's product portfolio includes perception software and high-definition mapping solutions, collectively known as Sentinel™. This full-stack platform accelerates time to market for automakers by integrating LiDAR, perception software, HD mapping technology, and control and planning software to enable proactive safety and highway autonomy.

Strategic Partnerships and Clientele

Luminar has secured significant partnerships with leading global automakers and technology companies. Notably, the company has been selected to provide its LiDAR technology for Volvo's EX90 electric vehicle, enhancing the vehicle's autonomous driving capabilities. Additionally, Luminar has collaborated with Mobileye, integrating its LiDAR into Mobileye's autonomous vehicle platform.

Financial Performance and Market Position

As of September 30, 2024, Luminar reported cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling $211.3 million. The company has raised $1.4 billion since 2020 to fuel its technology, product, and industrialization efforts.

In 2022, Luminar reported revenues of $40.7 million, up from $31.9 million in 2021. However, the company has incurred net losses annually since its inception, with a net loss of $445.9 million in 2022.

In 2024, Luminar undertook a restructuring plan, reducing its workforce by about 30% and sub-leasing some of its facilities globally to optimize operations. The company also restructured its debt, exchanging $422 million of convertible debt due in 2026 for new senior debt and convertible debt due in 2030, reducing total debt by $50 million and raising an additional $100 million in cash.

As of February 11, 2025, Luminar's stock (NASDAQ: LAZR) is trading at $5.60, with a market capitalization of approximately $205.77 million.

Outlook

Luminar's innovative LiDAR technology and strategic partnerships position it as a key player in the advancement of vehicle safety and autonomy. The company's focus on scalable production and integration of hardware and software solutions aligns with the growing demand for advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving capabilities. However, investors should be mindful of the company's ongoing financial challenges and the competitive landscape in the LiDAR industry.

Robots and Automation - From factory bots to Robo Taxis and Humanoids. Who are the leading companies?

Friday, January 3, 2025

As AVs and Robo Taxis take to the streets, 4D Lidar is feeling it's oats! Here's a breakdown of 4D Lidar Tech and it's market leaders!

 

AEVA has lead the technology advances

Business and Investment Report on 4D LiDAR Adoption and Its Benefits

Executive Summary

4D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology is revolutionizing autonomous driving, transportation, and beyond by introducing a fourth dimension: time. Unlike traditional 3D LiDAR systems, 4D LiDAR captures both spatial and temporal data, providing precise information about object positions, velocities, and trajectories. This advancement is set to transform the autonomous vehicle (AV) market, urban mobility, and safety systems, making it an attractive sector for investment.

Market Dynamics

Growth Drivers

  • Increased Demand for Autonomous Driving: The global autonomous vehicle market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 20% through 2030, driven by advancements in AI, machine learning, and sensor technologies like 4D LiDAR.

  • Regulatory Push for Safety: Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are mandating improved safety features in vehicles, positioning 4D LiDAR as a key enabler.

  • Technological Advancements: Companies like Aeva, Luminar, and Innoviz are driving innovation, making 4D LiDAR systems more compact, cost-effective, and scalable.

Challenges

  • High Costs: Although decreasing, the cost of integrating LiDAR remains a challenge for widespread adoption in consumer vehicles.

  • Data Processing Requirements: The vast amount of data generated by 4D LiDAR necessitates robust computing power and sophisticated AI algorithms.

  • Competition from Other Technologies: Camera-based systems, radar, and advanced machine vision are evolving, potentially competing with LiDAR in some applications.

Key Benefits of 4D LiDAR

  1. Enhanced Perception and Safety

    • Real-Time Motion Tracking: Captures both position and velocity of objects, improving situational awareness and decision-making in autonomous systems.

    • Low-Light and Adverse Weather Performance: Superior to cameras in conditions like fog, rain, or darkness.

  2. Improved Urban and Highway Navigation

    • Dense Urban Environments: Tracks multiple dynamic objects in crowded settings, reducing accident risks.

    • High-Speed Situations: Accurately predicts the trajectories of vehicles and pedestrians on highways.

  3. Scalability Across Industries

    • Beyond automotive, 4D LiDAR is gaining traction in robotics, industrial automation, and smart infrastructure projects.

    • Emerging applications include drone navigation, smart city planning, and advanced rail systems.

Industry Landscape

Market Leaders

  1. Aeva Technologies


    • Technological Edge: Aeva’s 4D LiDAR uses Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) technology, offering long-range, high-resolution detection and immunity to interference.

    • Major Partnerships: Selected by a top global automotive OEM as a Tier 1 supplier for a series production vehicle program.

    • Market Recognition: Named a Time Magazine Best Invention for its Aeries II 4D LiDAR.

    • New Collaboration: Partnered with Torc Robotics to supply 4D LiDAR for automated truck transport systems, emphasizing long-haul trucking safety and efficiency.

    • Check out the latest news from AEVA Lidar Tech
      aeva.com/news/

  2. Luminar Technologies

                             China's Pony Robo Taxis use Luminar Tech


    • OEM Adoption: Partnerships with Volvo and Daimler for next-generation autonomous vehicle systems.

    • Strategic Acquisitions: Recent acquisition of laser module units to strengthen vertical integration.

  3. Innoviz Technologies


    • Focus on Automotive: Providing LiDAR for major OEMs, including BMW.

    • Cost Efficiency: Developing compact LiDAR units aimed at mass-market affordability.

Companies Building 4D LiDAR into AV Packs

  1. Volvo

    • Supplier: Luminar Technologies

    • Integration: Luminar’s 4D LiDAR is featured in Volvo’s flagship EX90 electric SUV, enhancing safety and semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

  2. Mercedes-Benz

    • Supplier: Luminar Technologies

    • Integration: Utilized in the DRIVE PILOT system for Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities.

  3. BMW

    • Supplier: Innoviz Technologies

    • Integration: InnovizOne 4D LiDAR incorporated into BMW’s iX and other upcoming models.

  4. Toyota

    • Supplier: Aeva Technologies

    • Integration: Partnering with Aeva for advanced 4D LiDAR in pilot programs focused on urban mobility.

  5. Lucid Motors

    • Supplier: Aeva Technologies

    • Integration: Incorporating Aeva’s FMCW-based 4D LiDAR in its autonomous driving stack for luxury EVs.

  6. TORC (Daimler) partnered with AEVA

  7. Hyundai

    • Supplier: Velodyne (with plans for potential Aeva integration)

    • Integration: LiDAR is part of Hyundai’s growing focus on Level 3 autonomy for upcoming models.

Emerging Players

Startups and smaller firms are innovating in niche applications, such as drone-based LiDAR mapping and AI-powered data analytics, providing opportunities for venture capital investments.

Investment Opportunities

Automotive Sector

  • OEM Adoption: As regulations tighten, major automakers are likely to adopt 4D LiDAR as a standard for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving.

  • Retrofit Market: Opportunities exist in retrofitting older vehicles with advanced LiDAR systems for enhanced safety.

Cross-Industry Applications

  • Smart Infrastructure: Integration with smart city projects for traffic management and urban planning.

  • Robotics and Industrial Automation: Enhancing precision and efficiency in manufacturing and warehouse operations.

Technology Providers

  • Investing in companies like Aeva, Luminar, and Innoviz offers direct exposure to the 4D LiDAR market’s growth.

  • Venture capital opportunities abound in startups focusing on niche LiDAR applications.

Risks and Mitigation

  1. Technological Obsolescence

    • Mitigation: Focus on companies with robust R&D and adaptability to evolving standards.

  2. Regulatory Hurdles

    • Mitigation: Invest in firms proactively engaging with regulatory bodies to shape favorable policies.

  3. Market Competition

    • Mitigation: Diversify investments across multiple companies and industries to reduce dependency on a single player or sector.

Conclusion

The adoption of 4D LiDAR technology is poised to redefine the future of autonomous driving and beyond. With its ability to provide unparalleled environmental understanding, 4D LiDAR is a critical component for achieving full autonomy and improving safety standards. Companies like Aeva are leading the charge, making this a promising area for strategic investment. While challenges remain, the long-term growth potential, coupled with ongoing technological advancements, makes 4D LiDAR an attractive opportunity for investors seeking exposure to the next frontier in sensor technology.

Lidar in general is becoming a ubiquitous necessity in automation, robotics and Robo Taxi's, and a clear example of this is the fact that Waymo (owned by GOOG) reported more than 4 million fully autonomous Waymo rides served in 2024 (and 5M all-time)

Related Articles:

Aeva is expanding its footprint in autos with OEM partnerships. They are also advancing into Robotics and Automation!




Tuesday, December 17, 2024

AVs, RoboTaxis and robotics all need good Lidar technology. Here we rank five prominent Lidar makers!

 


Here’s the updated analysis and ranking of LiDAR companies, now including Hesai Group, a prominent player in the LiDAR market, alongside Luminar (LAZR), Aeva (AEVA), Innoviz (INVZ), and Ouster (OUST). Hesai's strengths, recent developments, and growing market presence warrant its inclusion.


1. Luminar Technologies (LAZR)

  • Business Prospects: Strong
  • Strengths:
    • Dominates the automotive LiDAR space with partnerships with major automakers like Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Nissan. ED note: last spring LAZR sold 4,000 to Tesla...hmm)
    • A strong focus on ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and scalability for mass-market vehicles.
    • High visibility in the market and a clear roadmap toward profitability.
  • Financials: Substantial cash reserves and strong investor confidence.
  • Outlook: Luminar remains the leader in automotive-grade LiDAR due to its established partnerships and scalability.

2. Hesai Group (HSAI)

  • Business Prospects: Rapidly Growing
  • Strengths:
    • The largest supplier of LiDAR units by volume, primarily targeting the Chinese market, which is the fastest-growing LiDAR market globally.
    • Hesai has strong partnerships with leading Chinese autonomous vehicle and robotaxi companies, including Nio, Li Auto, and XPeng.
    • Diversified applications in robotics, autonomous trucking, and industrial sectors.
    • Advanced LiDAR products like the AT128 (for ADAS) and Pandora (combining LiDAR and camera).
  • Recent Developments:
    • Successfully completed an IPO in early 2023, raising funds to expand production capabilities and R&D.
    • High-volume manufacturing capability gives it a cost advantage over competitors.
  • Outlook: Hesai's dominance in Asia and its growing global footprint make it a strong contender, second only to Luminar due to its regional focus and lack of significant Western automotive deals.

3. Aeva Technologies (AEVA)

  • Business Prospects: Promising
  • Strengths:
    • Aeva’s FMCW LiDAR technology provides superior performance in poor weather conditions and long-range applications by measuring velocity and distance simultaneously.
    • Strong positioning in autonomous trucking with its partnership with Torc Robotics (Daimler Trucks).
    • Broader applications in critical infrastructure and automotive with partnerships like Volkswagen Group.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Limited adoption compared to Luminar and Hesai in high-volume automotive deals.
    • Financial constraints limit scalability in the short term.
  • Outlook: Aeva’s unique technology makes it a strong player, but it needs broader adoption to challenge Luminar or Hesai.

4. Innoviz Technologies (INVZ)

  • Business Prospects: Strengthening
  • Strengths:
    • Recent partnership with Mobileye, Intel’s autonomous driving unit, significantly boosts its credibility and reach.
    • Existing automotive deals with BMW and Volkswagen for mass-market vehicles.
    • Focus on solid-state LiDAR, ideal for high-performance automotive applications.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Slower to commercialize than its peers and faces financial pressures.
  • Outlook: The Mobileye deal improves Innoviz’s market position, but it still lags behind in terms of adoption and scale.

5. Ouster (OUST)

  • Business Prospects: Mixed
  • Strengths:
    • Significant focus on robotics and non-automotive sectors, including smart infrastructure and industrial automation.
    • Merger with Velodyne in 2023 broadened its product portfolio and market reach.
  • Recent Developments:
    • Targeting new growth channels, including warehouse automation and robotics on a larger scale.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Limited traction in the automotive market and ongoing financial challenges.
  • Outlook: Ouster’s move into robotics adds new growth opportunities but doesn't yet match its peers' automotive success.

Updated Final Ranking of LiDAR Makers

Here’s the revised ranking, considering Hesai Group’s growing dominance:

  1. Luminar Technologies (LAZR)

    • Leading in Western markets with strong automotive partnerships and scalability.
  2. Hesai Group (HSAI)

    • Rapid growth and dominance in China, the largest LiDAR market, with increasing global presence.
  3. Aeva Technologies (AEVA)

    • Technological leader with FMCW LiDAR, strong potential in trucking and critical infrastructure, but slower adoption in automotive.
  4. Innoviz Technologies (INVZ)

    • Mobileye partnership elevates its position but trails in commercialization compared to leaders.
  5. Ouster (OUST)

    • Diversified focus into robotics and industrial sectors but lacks scale in automotive adoption.

Key Takeaways

  • Hesai Group’s dominance in China and its high manufacturing volume put it on par with Luminar in terms of business strength.
  • Aeva’s technological superiority positions it well for specific applications like autonomous trucking and infrastructure but requires broader adoption to move higher in the rankings.
  • Luminar’s market leadership in Western automotive markets remains unmatched.
  • Innoviz and Ouster face challenges in scaling but have opportunities in niche markets.


ED Note: 

The above rankings are Ai generated from all information available.

We now own shares of all five of these Lidar makers. 
(AEVA and Hesai are our top 2 holdings at this writing!)

Lidar for Robotics Manufacturers:

Several LiDAR makers are actively partnering with or providing LiDAR to robotics manufacturers, a growing sector that includes autonomous robots for industrial automation, warehouse management, delivery, and more. Here’s an overview of the current partnerships and involvement of the mentioned LiDAR makers in the robotics space:


1. Ouster (OUST)

  • Robotics Partnerships:

    • Ouster has a strong focus on robotics, making it a key supplier for robotics manufacturers.
    • It partners with companies developing autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), warehouse robotics, and industrial robots.
    • Key Customers/Applications:
      • Clearpath Robotics: Provides LiDAR sensors for AMRs.
      • AutoX: Supplies LiDAR for robotic delivery solutions.
    • Expanding its footprint into warehouse automation and industrial robots.
  • Why It's Important:
    Ouster’s digital LiDAR is well-suited for robotics due to its compact size, cost-efficiency, and adaptability for indoor and outdoor environments.


2. Hesai Group (HSAI)

  • Robotics Partnerships:

    • Hesai has significant traction in robotics in the Chinese market, supplying LiDAR for industrial, delivery, and service robots.
    • Key Customers/Applications:
      • Collaborates with robotics companies in China for delivery and warehouse automation solutions.
      • Pandora Sensor: Combines LiDAR and cameras, tailored for robotics applications.
  • Why It's Important:
    Hesai’s cost-effective, high-volume production capabilities make it a preferred supplier for large-scale robotics deployments.


3. Aeva Technologies (AEVA)

  • Robotics Involvement:

    • Aeva is not yet deeply embedded in the robotics market compared to others.
    • However, 
    • its FMCW LiDAR technology offers a cutting edge advantage for autonomous robots requiring precise velocity measurement in dynamic environments.
    • It has potential to expand into robotics, particularly in high-speed or industrial applications.
  • Why It's Important:  Aeva's technology is ideal for future robotics applications, and is considered superior to all the others in size and technology, though current focus is on trucking and automotive sectors.


4. Innoviz Technologies (INVZ)

  • Robotics Involvement:

    • Innoviz is focused on automotive applications and has limited involvement in the robotics space.
    • Its solid-state LiDAR could be applicable for robotics, but no major robotics partnerships have been announced.
  • Why It's Important:
    While Innoviz has the technology for robotics, its business strategy is currently aligned with automotive and autonomous vehicles. (See INVZ partners with Mobileye)


5. Luminar Technologies (LAZR)

  • Robotics Involvement:

    • Luminar primarily focuses on automotive-grade LiDAR for ADAS and autonomous vehicles.
    • It has no significant known partnerships with robotics manufacturers.
  • Why It's Important:
    Luminar’s premium technology is targeted at high-margin automotive applications, making it less competitive in the cost-sensitive robotics market.


Key Summary

  • Ouster and Hesai Group are the most active in the robotics space, partnering with manufacturers and targeting applications like warehouse automation, delivery robots, and industrial robotics.
  • Aeva has the potential to enter and, make a splash, the robotics market due to its superior technology but is not yet focused there.
  • Innoviz and Luminar are primarily automotive-focused and have limited robotics presence.

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