Luminar announced that its LiDAR technology will be integrated into Volvo’s forthcoming fully electric ES90 sedan, scheduled to commence production later this year.
This development marks the second collaboration between Luminar and Volvo, following the integration of Luminar’s technology into the Volvo EX90 SUV, which is currently being delivered to customers.
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LiDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, utilizes laser pulses to create precise three-dimensional mappings of a vehicle’s surroundings. This technology enhances safety by detecting pedestrians at distances up to 250 meters and identifying small, dark objects, such as tires on dark roads, up to 120 meters ahead, even under challenging conditions like nighttime driving.
Austin Russell, Founder and CEO of Luminar, commented on the collaboration, stating, “The Volvo ES90 will help scale our safety-critical technology at a time when consumers, automakers, and regulators alike are demanding the most advanced sensing capabilities in their roadmaps.”
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The ES90’s LiDAR system will integrate seamlessly into the vehicle’s roofline and work in conjunction with other advanced sensors, including radars, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s environment.
This integration aims to enhance safety for both occupants and pedestrians. Alwin Bakkenes, Head of Software Engineering at Volvo Cars, noted, “The Iris LiDAR on ES90 will complement an advanced set of sensors and enable exceptional perception to help keep everyone safe inside and around the car.”
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The ES90 is built on Volvo’s latest SPA2 platform, the same architecture underpinning the EX90, ensuring that the LiDAR system is harmoniously incorporated into the vehicle’s design. This advancement underscores Volvo’s commitment to redefining safety standards in the premium electric vehicle segment.
By integrating Luminar’s LiDAR technology into the ES90, Volvo aims to set new benchmarks for safety in the automotive industry, reflecting a shared dedication to innovation and the well-being of road users.