“MicroVision, a solid-state sensor technology company located in Redmond, Wash., says it has designed a solid-state automotive lidar sensor intended to reach production pricing below US $200. That’s less than half of typical prices now, and it’s not even the full extent of the company’s ambition. The company says its longer-term goal is $100 per unit. MicroVision’s claim, which, if realized, would place lidar within reach of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) rather than limiting it to high-end autonomous vehicle programs. Lidar’s limited market penetration comes down to one issue: cost.
Comparable mechanical lidars from multiple suppliers now sell in the $10,000 to $20,000 range. That price—roughly a tenfold drop, from about $80,000—helps explain why suppliers now are now hopeful that another steep price reduction is on the horizon.”
