Israeli start-up Innoviz Technologies and German automaker BMW have deepened their collaboration to create an advanced radar system that will enable Level 3 automated driving functions for a diverse range of future vehicles. The two companies have been working together for several years, and the upcoming BMW 7-Series is set to showcase the Innoviz LiDAR system with new self-driving features.
Innoviz is now focusing on the development of its second-generation LiDAR sensor, which will undergo a B-sample phase. During this phase, the sensor will be installed and thoroughly tested in demo vehicles provided by BMW. A successful B-sample phase is anticipated to pave the way for a serial development agreement, allowing BMW to integrate Innoviz’s latest LiDAR systems into their upcoming models.
Nicolai Martin, Senior Vice President of Driving Experience at BMW Group, emphasised the significance of LiDAR technology for Level 3 and higher automated functions. He highlighted the need for optimising LiDAR technologies and reducing costs to make highly automated driving mainstream. BMW is eager to see the results of the B-Sample phase, which may lead to a future extension of their collaboration with Innoviz.
Aside from their work on LiDAR systems, Innoviz and BMW are jointly developing a Minimal Risk Maneuver system. This system will serve as a secondary safety driving decision platform, utilizing the InnovizTwo LiDAR for real-time driving decision management.
Omer Keilaf, Co-founder and Chief Executive of Innoviz, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with BMW, a company known for its high standards in the automotive industry. He looks forward to embarking on this new project to develop the second-generation LiDAR solution and becoming an integral part of BMW’s journey in ADAS technology.
The ongoing partnership between Innoviz Technologies and BMW is poised to drive advancements in autonomous driving capabilities, bringing the automotive industry closer to a future of safer and more efficient driving experiences.
