Founded as an in-house startup of Hyundai Motor Group, AutoL focuses on developing LiDAR technology for vehicles, allowing the expansion of detection distance up to 300m without adjusting the power output.

"We plan to start supplying LiDAR sensors for autonomous vehicles that meet the requirements of finished car manufacturers in 2024. AutoL is focused on developing affordable yet high-quality LiDAR."

Yong-Sung, CEO of AutoL, expressed confidence that they can supply the first LiDAR for level 4 fully autonomous vehicles, as indicated by the Hyundai Motor Group for commercialization in 2024.

AutoL, which separated from the Hyundai Motor Group's in-house venture program in June of this year, continues strategic collaboration with the Hyundai Motor Group, acting as both a shareholder and a customer. The strength lies in accurately understanding customer requirements and incorporating them into the product.

The CEO, who joined Hyundai Motor in 1990, primarily developed advanced components utilizing new materials. In 2015, as the head of the sensor development team for vehicles, he began developing LiDAR for the commercialization of autonomous vehicles.

The CEO reminisced, saying, "Until then, we used LiDAR sensors that were expensive, bulky, and had insufficient performance." He added, "After three years of development, we succeeded in implementing a LiDAR concept model that surpasses the limitations of conventional LiDAR.

However, there were no companies to continue the prototype development. This was because the developed LiDAR was a new concept, making it difficult for others to understand or apply the principles. That's why the CEO applied for the in-house startup program.

The LiDAR currently under development includes the long-range 32-channel LiDAR 'G32' with a detection range of 300m, the mid-range 32-channel LiDAR 'M32' with a detection range of 150m, and the 32-channel LiDAR 'L32' that can be embedded in the headlamp. The plan is to apply the G32, which uses a mirror rotating scanner method, to mass production.

The core technology is the optical transmission control technology that enables long-range detection while maintaining high resolution. Increasing laser transmission output is the easiest way to extend the detection range, but there are legal constraints for eye protection.

The CEO emphasized, "AutoL has developed optical transmission control technology that increases laser peak power without raising the optical transmission output," adding, "With a single optical transmission system, we can secure a sufficient detection range required for autonomous vehicles."

Unlike competitors developing LiDAR in parallel for the smart city sector, AutoL has chosen a strategy of focus and concentration. The company aims to supply LiDAR in mass production rather than dispersing its capabilities. It plans to expand its customer base based on its technological capabilities, starting with the Hyundai Motor Group.

The CEO stated, "In level 3 autonomous vehicles, there will be at least 2 LiDARs in the front, and in level 4 or higher, there will be more than 5 installed." He added, "Although it will take some time for the initial application, the demand is expected to increase explosively, and AutoL will focus on the development of LiDAR for vehicles."

Journalist Jin Park - jin@etnews.com

View original article : https://www.etnews.com/20211101000112