Aeye’s Apollo lidar sensor has achieved exceptional results in recent field tests, consistently delivering high-resolution data at distances over one kilometer—a significant milestone in the lidar industry, and critical for allowing drivers (human and machine) more time to respond effectively at high speeds.
During testing, the Apollo accurately detected vehicles and objects on a busy freeway at distances beyond one kilometer. Customers, tier-1 suppliers, and automakers provided positive feedback as Apollo demonstrated its capability to gather detailed data over long distances.
CEO Matt Fisch said, “Apollo’s performance at over one kilometre makes a strong case for 1550-nanometer technology as an ultra-long-range high-speed lidar solution. We believe Apollo meets all NHTSA safety performance requirements, including forward collision warning at speeds up to 90 miles per hour.”
The Apollo is the inaugural product in AEye’s 4Sight flex next-generation family of lidar sensors. It supports up to 120° horizontal and 30° vertical field of view, with long-range detection of up to 325 meters at 10-per-cent reflectivity and up to 6.2 million points per second. It also provides horizontal and vertical resolutions within a region of interest as fine as 0.025°.
There are multiple integration options, including behind the windshield, on the roof, or in the grille, allowing automakers to incorporate essential safety features with minimal disruption to vehicle aesthetics. The Apollo is considered the only 1,550-nm high-performance lidar sensor capable of integration behind the windshield. It was introduced at the Auto Lidar Tech Conference held in Suzhou, China, in June 2024.
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AEye had teamed with Continental in the past to develop a new lidar, the HRL 131 by Continental. This sensor, based on AEye’s 4Sight lidar, was announced to have long-range capabilities for L3+ ADAS features in commercial and passenger vehicles. AEye also announced this past May a partnership with Accelight and LighTekton to deliver 4Sight lidar solutions to the Chinese market.
