Hesai Technology (Nasdaq: HSAI), a global leader in automotive lidar, has announced a partnership with Webasto, a leading global automotive supplier of roof systems. In this collaboration, Hesai will provide automotive lidar sensors to Webasto for its Roof Sensor Module designed for passenger cars equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Webasto's Roof Sensor Module currently incorporates Hesai's AT128 long-range lidar, alongside several cameras and other lidars. This module is a discreet, integrated system concealed beneath a full-surface polycarbonate cover that seamlessly blends with the vehicle's silhouette. This innovative panoramic car roof boasts a compact, sleek design that harmonizes functionality and aesthetics.

Lidar technology is gaining prominence in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as it excels in capturing precise information about the size, shape, location, and movements of surrounding objects. Lidar actively emits infrared laser light into its surroundings, ensuring optimal performance in various lighting conditions, including low light and variable lighting. Additionally, lidar can directly capture the 3D positions of objects, giving it a distinct advantage in object detection without the need for object recognition training, as required by cameras.

Hesai's long-range automotive lidar sensors are well-suited for rooftop integration. The AT128, Hesai's flagship long-range lidar, generates ultra-high-resolution point clouds and can detect objects up to 200 meters away. This lidar provides detailed information about various objects, including vehicles, pedestrians, tires, and traffic cones. It facilitates accurate decision-making, enhancing safety on the road. Hesai's AT128 has gained recognition with 11 original equipment manufacturer (OEM) wins and has shipped over 130,000 units.

Hesai's new ET25 long-range lidar, with its slim 25 mm profile, is suitable for rooftop and behind-the-windshield installations. Even when installed behind the windshield, the ET25 offers an impressive range of 225 meters, with an exceptionally fine angular resolution of 0.05° x 0.05°. This lidar sensor consumes just 12 W of power, preventing overheating, and operates quietly, emitting noise levels lower than 25 dB, quieter than a typical library.

Thomas Schütt, VP R&D Roof at Webasto, expressed the significance of this collaboration: "The autonomous driving field has seen impressive technological progress, and we are now looking to create something that combines functionality with visual appeal for the mass market. We are thrilled to collaborate with Hesai in the field of lidar integration and look forward to exploring even more possibilities in the near future."

Bob in den Bosch, Senior VP of Global Sales at Hesai Technology, shared his enthusiasm about the partnership: "At Hesai, we are excited to partner with Webasto to explore new and innovative lidar designs. Our aim is to see our cutting-edge lidar technology adopted by leading automotive OEMs and become a mainstream component in series-production vehicles. This entails delivering reliable, high-quality lidar solutions at competitive price points. We hope to push boundaries once more through this new collaboration, enabling people to enjoy the safety and convenience of lidar without compromising the vehicle's aesthetics."

Both Hesai and Webasto are showcasing their technologies at IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich from September 5th to 8th. Attendees are welcome to visit Hesai at Hall B2, Booth F10, and Webasto at Hall B3, Booth C40.

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