Innoviz "INVZ" strikes gold with another partnership in the AV growth sector, with Mobileye!

 

Investment Report on Innoviz Technologies Ltd (INVZ)

Introduction Innoviz Technologies Ltd (NASDAQ: INVZ) is a leading provider of high-performance LiDAR sensors and perception software that enable the mass production of autonomous vehicles (AVs). The company’s innovative technology solutions are critical for enhancing the safety and functionality of autonomous systems across industries.

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Technology Overview

LiDAR Sensors Innoviz’s core technology revolves around advanced solid-state LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors. Unlike mechanical LiDAR systems, Innoviz’s solid-state design ensures higher durability, reliability, and scalability for mass production. Key features include:

• High-Resolution Imaging: Offers detailed environmental mapping.

• Long-Range Detection: Extends up to 250 meters, suitable for highway driving and urban environments.

• Compact Design: Facilitates integration into various vehicle designs.

Perception Software Innoviz complements its LiDAR hardware with cutting-edge perception software that processes LiDAR data to create a real-time 3D view of the surroundings. This software is vital for object detection, classification, and tracking, enabling safe navigation in dynamic environments.

Recent Tech Advancements at INVZ

• InnovizTwo LiDAR: Enhanced performance with reduced cost, enabling greater adoption across consumer vehicles.

• Innoviz360: A next-generation LiDAR designed for applications beyond automotive, such as robotics, drones, and industrial automation.

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Partnerships and Collaborations

Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Ecosystem Innoviz has established itself as a key player in the AV ecosystem through partnerships with leading automotive manufacturers and technology companies. Notable collaborations include:

• BMW: Innoviz is the exclusive supplier of LiDAR sensors for BMW’s upcoming Level 3 autonomous vehicles.

• Robotics & Industrial Applications: Partnerships with robotics firms to integrate Innoviz’s LiDAR technology into warehouse automation and delivery systems.

Newest Partnership with Mobileye 

Today, Innoviz announced a strategic partnership with Mobileye, a global leader in AV technology and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Innoviz, as Mobileye’s robust ecosystem will amplify the reach and integration of Innoviz’s LiDAR technology.

• Scope of Partnership:

  • InnovizTwo will be integrated into Mobileye’s next-generation autonomous driving platforms.

  • The collaboration aims to reduce costs and accelerate timelines for deploying scalable autonomous solutions.

• Strategic Impact:

  • Strengthens Innoviz’s market position in the competitive AV industry.

  • Expands revenue opportunities through Mobileye’s established relationships with automakers.

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Financial Performance

Recent Financial Metrics As of the latest fiscal reports:

• Revenue: $7.2 million in Q3 2024, reflecting a YoY growth of 68%.

• Gross Margin: Improved to 23%, up from 15% YoY, driven by cost optimization in manufacturing.

• Net Loss: Reported a net loss of $24.5 million, narrowing from $30 million YoY.

• Cash and Cash Equivalents: $145 million, providing a solid runway for continued R&D investment.

Growth Prospects

• Automotive Market Penetration: Expected to grow significantly with production agreements like the one with BMW.

• Diversified Applications: Expansion into non-automotive sectors such as industrial automation and smart cities.

• Mobileye Partnership: Anticipated to drive significant revenue growth starting in 2025.

Risks

• Competitive Market: Faces competition from LiDAR providers like Aeva, Oust and Luminar.

• Profitability Timeline: Continued net losses highlight the challenge of achieving profitability in the near term.

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Investment Outlook

Strengths

• Industry-leading technology in LiDAR sensors and perception software.

• Strategic partnerships with top-tier players like BMW and Mobileye.

• Strong growth trajectory in revenue and market adoption.

Challenges

• High R&D and operational expenses impacting short-term profitability.

• Dependence on broader AV market adoption and regulatory developments.

Conclusion Innoviz Technologies Ltd represents a compelling investment opportunity for those seeking exposure to the autonomous driving and advanced sensor market. Its recent partnership with Mobileye and continued technology advancements position it as a frontrunner in the LiDAR industry. However, potential investors should weigh the risks associated with market competition and profitability timelines.

Recommendation Consider Innoviz as a growth-oriented investment within a diversified portfolio, particularly for those with a long-term outlook on the AV and robotics industries.

ED Note:

We are invested in Innoviz, Aeva, Oust and Luminar, in the Lidar market!

It's Time for Elon Musk to Wake Up and Smell the Lidar that is eating Tesla's lunch!

AVs, RoboTaxis and robotics all need good Lidar technology. 

Here we rank five prominent Lidar makers!

RoboTaxi's are coming and the companies building them need suppliers like these microcap stocks!

 

Amazon's Zooks - RoboTaxi

Here are 3, microcap, public Tech companies involved in supplying crucial technology 

to the driverless car industry (as well as the automation and robotics industries)

1. Ouster, Inc. (OUST): Specializes in high-performance lidar sensors used in autonomous vehicles and robotics for mapping and navigation.

2. Aeva Technologies, Inc. (AEVA): Develops lidar and perception systems that provide 4D sensing for autonomous vehicles, enhancing their ability to perceive the environment.

3. Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. (FRSX): Focuses on developing advanced safety and autonomous driving solutions, including multi-spectral vision systems for driverless cars.

Please note that stock prices are volatile and can change rapidly. Please verify the current share prices through a reliable financial source.

Here is a rundown of each of these tech microcaps!

Ouster, Inc. (Ticker: OUST)

Company Overview

Ouster is a leading provider of high-resolution digital lidar sensors used in autonomous vehicles, robotics, mapping, and industrial automation. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, Ouster aims to make high-performance lidar technology widely accessible through scalable manufacturing and affordable pricing.

Founders and Backgrounds

• Angus Pacala: Co-founder and CEO of Ouster. Pacala holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University. Before starting Ouster, he co-founded Quanergy Systems, another lidar technology company, where he served as Director of Engineering. His expertise lies in hardware design, optics, and photonics.

• Mark Frichtl: Co-founder and former CTO of Ouster. Frichtl also graduated from Stanford University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to Ouster, he worked as a hardware engineer at Apple, contributing to the development of various consumer electronics. His background is in hardware engineering and product development.

Position in the Industry

Ouster differentiates itself with its digital lidar technology, which uses silicon semiconductor manufacturing processes to produce lidar sensors. This approach allows for mass production at a lower cost compared to traditional analog lidar systems. Ouster's sensors are known for their high resolution, reliability, and compact form factor, making them suitable for integration into a wide range of vehicles and machinery.

Ouster absorbed competitor, Velodyne technologies in the past year, enhancing it's production and development growth and absorbing Velodyne clients. It competes with other lidar providers like Luminar but positions itself as a more cost-effective solution without compromising on performance. Ouster has established partnerships across automotive, industrial, and robotics sectors, enhancing its presence in the autonomous vehicle supply chain.

Financials

Ouster became a publicly-traded company through a merger with Colonnade Acquisition Corp., a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), in March 2021. The merger provided Ouster with significant capital to scale its operations.

• Revenue Growth: The company reported increasing revenues driven by higher sensor sales across various industries.
• Investments: Significant funds are allocated to research and development to improve sensor performance and reduce costs.
• Profitability: Ouster is becoming profitable, focusing on growth and market penetration.

Please verify the latest financial statements for up-to-date information, as financial conditions can change.

Technology Advances

Ouster's key technological advancements include:

• Digital Lidar Architecture: Utilizes complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology for both transmitting and receiving elements, enabling scalable production.
• Multi-Beam Flash Lidar: Offers high-resolution 3D imaging with a simplified design, reducing moving parts and increasing durability.
• Scalable Manufacturing: Their sensors can be produced using existing semiconductor fabrication infrastructure, lowering costs.

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Aeva Technologies, Inc. (Ticker: AEVA)

4D Lidar on a chip

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Company Overview

Aeva Technologies specializes in sensing and perception systems for autonomous vehicles. Founded in 2017 and based in Mountain View, California, Aeva develops lidar sensors that integrate velocity measurements at each point, enhancing the detection capabilities of autonomous systems.

Founders and Backgrounds

• Soroush Salehian: Co-founder and CEO. Salehian previously worked at Apple in the Special Projects Group, focusing on hardware development for new products. He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University.

• Mina Rezk: Co-founder and CTO. Rezk also hails from Apple, where he worked on developing sensing technology for consumer electronics. He has a background in physics and engineering.

Both founders leveraged their experience at Apple (remember Apple car) to create advanced sensing solutions aimed at overcoming the limitations of existing lidar technologies.

Position in the Industry

Aeva is recognized for its unique approach to lidar technology, employing Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) methodologies. This allows their sensors to measure instant velocity and position, reducing interference and enhancing object detection accuracy.

The company's technology has attracted partnerships with major automotive manufacturers and suppliers, positioning Aeva as a key player in the next generation of autonomous vehicle sensors. They compete with companies like Velodyne and Innoviz but stand out due to their FMCW technology.

Financials

Aeva went public via a SPAC merger with InterPrivate Acquisition Corp. in March 2021, providing capital to accelerate product development and commercialization efforts.

• Revenue: Primarily generated from partnerships and development contracts.
• Investments: Focused heavily on R&D to refine their FMCW lidar technology.
• Profitability: Not yet profitable as the company invests in scaling its technology and manufacturing capabilities.

For the latest financial updates, please consult recent company filings.

Technology Advances

Aeva's notable technological contributions include:

• 4D Lidar on Chip: Integrates all key components onto a silicon photonics chip, reducing size and cost.
• Instant Velocity Measurement: Their sensors can detect the velocity of objects at each point, improving tracking and identification.
• Long-Range Performance: Capable of detecting objects at distances exceeding 300 meters.

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Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. (Ticker: FRSX)

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Company Overview

Foresight Autonomous Holdings is an Israeli technology company founded in 2015, focusing on automotive vision systems for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving applications. The company's solutions are designed to improve vehicle safety by providing accurate and reliable detection capabilities.

Founders and Backgrounds

• Haim Siboni: Founder and CEO. Siboni is also the CEO of Magna B.S.P., a company specializing in security systems. He has a background in management and technology development, particularly in electro-optics and surveillance systems.

Position in the Industry

Foresight leverages stereo vision and multi-spectral imaging technology to create 3D images of the environment, enhancing object detection accuracy. Their systems are designed to perform in various weather and lighting conditions, addressing common challenges faced by optical sensors.

The company positions itself as a provider of cost-effective vision solutions for the automotive industry, targeting manufacturers and suppliers seeking to enhance the safety features of their vehicles.

Financials

Foresight is a smaller player compared to its peers, with financials reflecting its early-stage development status.

• Revenue: Generated from pilot projects, prototypes, and initial sales.
• Investments: Significant expenditure on R&D to develop and refine their vision systems.
• Profitability: The company has not yet achieved profitability, focusing on technology development and market penetration.

Always refer to the most recent financial reports for up-to-date information.

Technology Advances

Key technological advancements by Foresight include:

• QuadSight Vision System: Utilizes four cameras (two infrared and two visible light) to achieve near-perfect object detection in all conditions.
• Multi-Spectral Stereo Vision: Combines inputs from different spectral bands to enhance detection capabilities.
• Software Solutions: Advanced algorithms for image processing, object recognition, and distance measurement.

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Conclusion

These three companies play significant roles in advancing the technology necessary for driverless cars:

• Ouster focuses on making high-resolution lidar sensors more accessible through digital technology and scalable manufacturing.
• Aeva introduces innovative FMCW lidar technology that measures velocity, enhancing the perception capabilities of autonomous vehicles.
• Foresight Autonomous provides advanced vision systems that improve safety through accurate detection in challenging conditions.

Their founders bring a wealth of experience from leading technology companies and specialized fields, driving innovation within the autonomous vehicle industry. While each company is at different stages of financial maturity, they all contribute critical technologies that support the growth and development of driverless cars.

Note: The information provided is based on data available up to September 2021. For the latest updates on financials, company developments, and technological advancements, please consult recent company disclosures and reputable financial news sources.

Editor Note:

Full Disclosure: we own shares in AEVA, LAZR and OUST

Lidar technology. Here we rank five prominent Lidar makers!

The not so secret technology, that is eating Tesla's lunch!

Who might be interested in Buying EV Charging Stock, Chargepoint? Pure speculation, however....

Why Cameras will not replace Lidar in Automation, AVs and Robotics going forward!

 

While camera systems have made significant advancements in recent years, it's unlikely that they will entirely replace LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) in automation, autonomous vehicles (AVs), or robotics. Instead, a combination of sensors—including cameras, LiDAR, and sometimes radar—is expected to remain the industry standard for the foreseeable future.

Advantages of Camera Systems:

1. Rich Visual Information: Cameras capture detailed visual data, including color and texture, which is essential for recognizing and interpreting traffic signs, signals, and road markings.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: Cameras are generally less expensive than LiDAR systems, making them an attractive option for reducing overall system costs.
3. Advancements in Computer Vision: Improvements in machine learning and computer vision algorithms have enhanced the ability of cameras to interpret complex environments.

Limitations of Camera Systems:

1. Depth Perception Challenges: Cameras struggle with accurate depth perception, especially in varying lighting conditions. Estimating distances using stereo vision is computationally intensive and less reliable than LiDAR's direct measurements.
2. Sensitivity to Environmental Conditions: Cameras can be adversely affected by poor lighting, glare, fog, or heavy rain, which can degrade image quality and sensor performance.

Advantages of LiDAR:

1. Precise Distance Measurement: LiDAR provides accurate 3D mapping of the environment by measuring the time it takes for laser pulses to return after hitting an object.
2. Operational in Various Conditions: LiDAR is less affected by lighting variations and can operate effectively in both day and night conditions.
3. Enhanced Safety and Redundancy: In safety-critical applications like autonomous driving, having multiple sensor modalities increases system reliability.

Industry Trends:

• Tesla's Camera-Centric Approach: Tesla has notably moved towards a camera-only system called "Tesla Vision," relying heavily on neural networks and advanced algorithms.
• Multi-Sensor Strategies: Companies like Waymo and Cruise continue to use LiDAR in combination with cameras and radar to enhance reliability and safety.
• Cost Reduction in LiDAR Technology: The cost of LiDAR systems has been decreasing due to technological advancements and increased production scale, making them more accessible.

publicly traded companies:

1. Luminar Technologies (NASDAQ: LAZR)

   • Overview: Luminar specializes in long-range, high-resolution LiDAR sensors for autonomous vehicles.
   • Growth Factors: Partnerships with major automotive manufacturers like Volvo and Toyota position the company for mass-market adoption.

2. Innoviz Technologies (NASDAQ: INVZ)

   • Overview: Innoviz develops solid-state LiDAR sensors that meet automotive-grade standards.
   • Growth Factors: Collaborations with companies like BMW enhance their prospects in the automotive sector.

3. Ouster (NYSE: OUST)

   • Overview: Ouster offers high-resolution, digital LiDAR sensors for various industries, including automotive and robotics.
   • Growth Factors: Their modular and scalable technology appeals to a broad market.
   • Merger: In February 2023, Ouster and Velodyne Lidar merged, combining their technologies to offer enhanced LiDAR solutions with improved performance, cost-effectiveness, and a broader product portfolio for various applications.

4. Aeva Technologies (NYSE: AEVA)

   • Overview: Aeva develops LiDAR systems with integrated velocity detection for detailed environmental mapping.
   • Growth Factors: Partnerships with companies like Volkswagen indicate strong potential for growth.
   • Aeva's advanced LiDAR technology provides simultaneous distance and direct velocity measurements using Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) technology, offering high-resolution 3D mapping with precise motion detection for enhanced environmental perception in autonomous systems.

5. Hesai Technology (NASDAQ: HSAI)

   • Overview: Based in China, Hesai focuses on hybrid solid-state LiDAR sensors for autonomous vehicles and robotics.
   • Growth Factors: Significant funding and global expansion efforts position them well in the Chinese market.

6. Valeo (EPA: FR)

   • Overview: Valeo is a major automotive supplier producing LiDAR systems like the SCALA sensor.
   • Growth Factors: Their established presence and integration into vehicles by manufacturers such as Audi give them a competitive edge.

Conclusion:

These publicly traded companies are poised for growth due to technological innovations, strategic partnerships, and increasing market demand for LiDAR solutions in autonomous vehicles and other applications.

Given the complementary strengths and weaknesses of cameras and LiDAR, it's more plausible that they will continue to be used together rather than cameras entirely replacing LiDAR. The integration of multiple sensor types allows for greater accuracy, reliability, and safety, which are paramount in automation, AVs, and robotics. While camera technology and computer vision will continue to improve, LiDAR offers unique advantages that make it a valuable component of sophisticated sensing systems.

Editor note:

Although our top 3 picks in the sector include AEVA and LAZR, it is OUST that may have an edge: Here's why:

Ouster (NYSE: OUST)

Overview:

• Merger with Velodyne Lidar: In February 2023, Ouster completed a merger with Velodyne Lidar, combining two of the industry's leading portfolios and technologies.
• Diverse Product Portfolio: The merged entity offers a comprehensive range of LiDAR solutions, including both spinning and solid-state sensors, catering to automotive, industrial, robotics, and smart infrastructure sectors.
• Technological Innovation: Ouster focuses on digital LiDAR technology, which offers high resolution and reliability with a path toward significant cost reductions through semiconductor manufacturing techniques.

Market Positioning:

• The merger consolidates resources and expertise, enhancing their competitive edge and accelerating innovation.
• A broader customer base and diversified applications reduce reliance on any single market segment, potentially stabilizing revenue streams.
• A pointed focus on Robotics and industrial automation!
  

It's Time for Elon Musk to Wake Up and Smell the Lidar that is eating Tesla's lunch!

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

January 20, 2025

Androids, Humanoid Robots, whatever the label, they are coming. Now, Who is leading the charge into this lucrative, futuristic market?

Investor John Templeton got his start in penny stocks. Here are some large companies that were once pennystocks!

Let’s explore how some of these tech giants 

and other companies were once penny stocks:

1. Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL): Apple, founded in 1976, had its ups and downs. With nine stock splits taken into account, it was in penny stock territory as recently as 1995. Now, it trades above $300 a share1.

2. Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F): Ford, a Fortune 500 company, was also once a penny stock. It has come a long way since then2.

3. Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN): Believe it or not, Amazon was once a penny stock too. Its remarkable growth turned it into the e-commerce giant we know today3.

4. Google (now Alphabet): Google (now part of Alphabet) started as a penny stock when it went public in 2004. Its search engine dominance and expansion into various tech sectors transformed it into a powerhouse1.

5. Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT): Microsoft, with its stock splits considered, was in penny stock territory until the mid-1990s. It has since become one of the world’s most valuable companies1.

These transformations demonstrate the potential for substantial growth

even from humble beginnings!

As an interesting side note, in 1998 when Amazon was still in it's infancy, Jeff Bezos was not a multi billionaire. 

However, he saw a company that he believed had a vision for the future.  He invested $250,000 (a large sum for him at the time) into that company. That company was Google!

Bezos turned that modest $250,000 investment into $7.9 billion 

a 3 million percent-plus return

Here are five more companies that were once penny stocks that have achieved significant success:

1. Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (SIRI): Sirius XM, one of the world’s biggest audio and communication companies, was once a penny stock trading at only $0.60 about 10 years ago. It has since grown over 965% and expanded its reach with the addition of Pandora Radio1.

2. Accelerate Diagnostics Inc. (AXDX): Focused on solving antibiotic resistance challenges, Accelerate Diagnostics has seen substantial growth. Its stock was once considered a very small penny stock but has risen significantly since then1.

3. True Religion (formerly NASDAQ: TRLG): True Religion traded under $1 in the mid-2000s and grew into a strong company2.

4. Pier 1 (formerly NYSE: PIR, now OTCPK: PIRRQ): Pier 1 experienced tremendous highs as a penny stock and managed to reverse its fortunes2.

5. Monster Beverage Corporation (NASDAQ: MNST): Monster Beverage, known for energy drinks, was once a penny stock and has become a major player in the market

Remember, investing in penny stocks can be risky, but these examples show that with the right catalysts and timing, substantial growth is possible! 

Are there hidden gems in today's crop of penny stocks with new technology?

We currently own shares in these Microcap companies!

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