#Germany #Stuttgart #Hesai Technology #Outsight #Embotech

Transforming Automated Vehicle Marshalling

In a significant step towards enhancing industrial automation, Hesai Technology, Outsight, and Embotech AG have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at advancing cutting-edge lidar technology and perception software. This partnership focuses on the Automated Vehicle Marshalling (AVM) system deployed within BMW production facilities, specifically known internally as Automated Driving In-Plant (AFW).

The Partnership Explained

Embotech serves as the systems provider for BMW's groundbreaking Automated Driving In-Plant series operations and global rollout. The influential role of Outsight in this collaboration is anchored in its advanced lidar software platform that meticulously tracks the movements of vehicles and surrounding obstacles within BMW production spaces. Meanwhile, Hesai Technology supplies its industry-renowned lidar sensors, acclaimed for their precision and reliability, effectively acting as the 'eyes' for the AVM systems.

This technology was initially introduced in the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series at the Dingolfing plant and has now been expanded to include the MINI Countryman and various other BMW models produced in Leipzig. The impressive AVM solution allows vehicles to navigate autonomously over distances surpassing one kilometer from assembly lines through quality assurance test drives, eliminating the need for human operators during key phases of production.

Innovative Production Methods

At the Dingolfing facility, once the automobiles are assembled, they establish a secure connection with the AVM technology, which takes control of the vehicle and guides it throughout testing and evaluations. This innovative approach drastically reduces the necessity for transporting personnel back and forth to supervise each vehicle’s route.

Key Players in the Collaboration

The integration of these technologies epitomizes a collaborative effort among global leaders in their respective domains. Over the years, Hesai, Outsight, and Embotech have made considerable advances in offering reliable and sophisticated lidar and perception solutions, which contribute to safer and more efficient autonomous driving frameworks.

Dr. David Li, the CEO and Co-founder of Hesai Technology, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We’re thrilled to work alongside Embotech and Outsight in delivering innovative lidar technology for BMW's AVM system. This collaboration exemplifies the precision and safety our lidar and Outsight’s perception software can offer". His sentiments were echoed by Embotech's CTO Dr. Alexander Domahidi, who emphasized how the synergy of Outsight’s and Hesai's technologies culminates in exceptional standards of operational safety and efficiency in BMW operations.

The insights from Raul Bravo, President and co-founder at Outsight, underpin the increasing sophistication and maturity of lidar technologies illuminating their application within real-world conditions. "This collaboration showcases the pivotal role of 3D perception technology in facilitating enhanced safety and efficiency within industrial landscapes," he remarked.

Global Implementation

The collaborative efforts have successfully resulted in the system now being utilized for the marshalling of newly manufactured vehicles as they transition through various phases of production and logistics across several BMW facilities. This advancement marks the initial step toward a significant rollout across multiple plants near the European and North American regions.

The partnership not only propels the progressive landscape of industrial automation but also reflects the unparalleled capabilities of the involved companies as they commit to pioneering innovations in the realm of autonomous driving solutions.

About the Companies

Hesai Technology

Founded in 2013, Hesai Technology has emerged as a premier provider in the lidar technology sector, serving six of the top 10 global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with an impressive 26% market share in the ADAS segment. The firm has cultivated a robust presence across Europe, the U.S., and Asia and continues to unveil advancements in lidar technology, supported by substantial patent registrations.

Embotech

Embotech specializes in autonomous driving solutions focused primarily on AVM for passenger automobile manufacturing and Automated Terminal Trucks (ATT) for ports and logistic centers, championing safe and reliable autonomous transport through real-time optimization technology.

Outsight

Outsight focuses on advancing 3D spatial intelligence solutions by leveraging lidar data to track the motion of vehicles and people, enhancing operational safety while promoting efficient transportation logistics across various infrastructure settings.

Through this collaboration, these pioneering firms are set to redefine the industrial landscape and lead the charge towards a future dominated by autonomous driving technology.