Luminar, a leading provider of Lidar technology, has announced that
Mercedes-Benz will incorporate its sensors and software into a wide range of vehicles starting mid-decade. The expanded partnership between the two companies marks a significant development and will see Mercedes-Benz use Luminar’s Iris Lidar in an upcoming partially automated driving system. The partnership builds on a previous deal announced in January 2022, where Mercedes-Benz agreed to incorporate Luminar’s Lidar technology in upcoming high-end models.
Enhanced Hands-Free Operation and Driver-Assist Features
Under the expanded agreement, Mercedes-Benz will incorporate the next version of Luminar’s Iris Lidar in an upcoming partially automated driving system. The system will enable expanded hands-free operation during highway driving at speeds up to 130 kilometers per hour (81 miles per hour), and driver-assist features in urban environments. These advanced features are expected to enhance the driving experience while ensuring high standards of vehicle safety and performance.
Multibillion-Dollar Expansion of the Partnership
Luminar did not disclose the expected production volumes, but the company described this deal as a “multibillion-dollar” expansion of the earlier partnership. The expansion represents a significant development in the Lidar technology space, highlighting the growing importance of automated driving systems in the automotive industry. The deal also highlights the potential of Lidar technology to enhance vehicle safety and performance while improving the overall driving experience.
Significance of the Partnership
The expanded partnership between Luminar and Mercedes-Benz reinforces the automaker’s commitment to advancing
automated driving technology. The deal is expected to enable the broadest scale deployment of Lidar technology in the industry and is a significant development in the quest for fully autonomous driving. The partnership is also a significant win for Luminar, as it further solidifies the company’s position as a leading provider of Lidar technology.
Next-Generation Iris Lidar System
Luminar is set to unveil the next-generation version of its Iris Lidar system when it reports its fourth-quarter and full-year results. The new system is expected to feature significant improvements over its predecessor, enabling enhanced capabilities and improved performance. The next-generation system is expected to enable Luminar to further cement its position as a leading provider of Lidar technology.
Conclusion
The expanded partnership between Luminar and Mercedes-Benz highlights the growing importance of automated driving systems in the automotive industry. The agreement is a significant development and reinforces Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to advancing vehicle safety and performance. The deal also highlights the potential of Lidar technology to enhance the driving experience while ensuring high standards of safety and performance. With the next-generation Iris Lidar system set to be unveiled soon, the partnership is expected to enable Luminar to further solidify its position as a leading provider of Lidar technology in the automotive industry.
