Waymo Lowers Sensor Costs While Doubling Detection Range in New Tech
Waymo introduces its 5th generation autonomous driving hardware, cutting sensor costs by half while doubling visibility in all directions. The upgraded system utilizes an extensive array of lidar, cameras, and radar to navigate safely in challenging conditions.
Waymo unveils its 5th generation autonomous driving technology, revealing that it cuts the cost of its sensor suite by half while doubling the vehicle's visibility in all directions. This advancement builds on the company's long history, starting from its early days as a Google project competing in the DARPA Urban Challenge to its current mission of providing on-demand ride-hailing services.
The latest hardware system incorporates five lidar units, 29 cameras, and multiple radar units strategically placed around the vehicle. Waymo claims these sensors see up to 300 meters ahead with lidar and 500 meters ahead with visual and infrared cameras, allowing the vehicles to detect obstacles in extremely difficult conditions like fog, snow, and moonless nights.
To deploy this new technology, Waymo continues to expand its fleet by converting Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids and integrating thousands of Jaguar I-Pace electric SUVs. Ultimately, the company plans to put nearly 70,000 autonomous cars on the road, which represents about one quarter of the entire US taxi and limousine fleet.