Luminar Technologies, a leading company in the lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) distance sensing sensor startup, revealed in a securities market report that Tesla has placed a significant order for lidar sensors, accounting for more than 10% of Luminar’s first-quarter revenue.
The reason behind Tesla’s purchase of lidar sensors remains undisclosed, especially since Elon Musk previously stated a preference for using cameras exclusively and not relying on other sensors. This development has led analysts to speculate that Tesla may integrate lidar technology into their autonomous taxi services, set to launch in August.
In addition to Tesla, Luminar’s client roster includes automotive companies like Volvo, with whom they have had a contract since 2018. The Volvo EX90 is the first model to feature Luminar’s lidar technology. Other identified customers include Mercedes-Benz, Polestar, Nissan, autonomous truck manufacturers, and clients outside the automotive industry.
Source: The Verge, Image from Luminar
TLDR: Tesla orders a significant number of lidar sensors from Luminar, sparking speculation about their use in upcoming autonomous taxi services, while Luminar continues to expand its clientele in the automotive industry and beyond.
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