Intelligent sensing technologies enable 360 vision in self-driving platform

ON Semiconductor has revealed that its image sensing and LiDAR technologies power key functions of AutoX’s Gen5 self-driving platform. Announced at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference, the new Gen5 autonomous vehicle technology facilitates the first fully driverless RoboTaxi, intended to democratise autonomy and give universal access to the transportation of people and goods.

“In our quest to bring our Level 4 autonomous RoboTaxi to the market, ON Semiconductor is the obvious partner for all of our sensing needs,” stated Jianxiong Xiao, founder and CEO of AutoX. “The AR0820AT 8 MP image sensor enables high-resolution camera fusion with other sensors. This is crucial in dense urban scenarios, where a wide field of view is needed to capture objects on sidewalks or cross-traffic while extending the practical sensing distance to beyond 300m to enable autonomy at freeway speeds, where objects or signs must be recognised farther away from the vehicle to enable sufficient reaction time.”

These vehicles are equipped with the most advanced camera sensors and LiDAR detectors for the highest level of safety. ON Semi offers 28 high-resolution AR0820AT 8MP image sensors and four SiPM arrays for LiDAR sensors, giving a full surround view with zero blind spots.

“ON Semiconductor continues to drive innovations in market-leading sensor technologies, and our scalable sensor solutions address the stringent and rapidly evolving needs of the automotive market,” commented Ross Jatou, senior vice president, Intelligent Sensing Group at ON Semiconductor. “Performance and deep integration are both key for truly driverless applications. We are thrilled with the continued engagement with AutoX as we continue to advance active safety and enable fully autonomous driving.”

AutoX’s entire hardware and software stack for Level 4 autonomous driving is able to handle the densest and most dynamic traffic conditions, illustrated by its recognition as the first company to receive a license to operate completely autonomous RoboTaxis in China. The company has deployed hundreds of these vehicles in Shanghai, Shenzhen, Wuhan and other major Chinese cities. The company also launched its RoboTaxi and RoboDelivery pilot services in California last year.