What is Tesla's Autopilot and why is it on trial?

Tesla's Autopilot is an advanced driver assistance system that can steer, accelerate, and brake automatically under supervision. The trial in question involves a fatal crash where Autopilot was engaged, raising questions about whether the system should have prevented the accident and to what extent Tesla might be legally responsible. The outcome could set important precedents for liability in autonomous vehicle technology.

What is LiDAR technology and why is it important for autonomous vehicles?

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a sensing technology that uses laser pulses to create detailed 3D maps of a vehicle's surroundings. Unlike cameras, LiDAR works well in low light and can precisely measure distances. Many experts consider it crucial for safe autonomous driving because it provides an additional layer of perception beyond cameras and radar, helping vehicles "see" with greater accuracy in various conditions.

ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. These are electronic systems that help drivers with driving and parking functions. Examples include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot detection. ADAS represents the stepping stones toward fully autonomous vehicles, with each new generation offering more sophisticated assistance.

How could the outcome of this trial affect these companies?

If the trial concludes that autonomous systems need more robust safety features, companies that supply advanced sensors (like LiDAR and radar), sophisticated processing chips, and perception software could see increased demand for their products. Automakers might be required to implement more comprehensive and redundant safety systems, potentially accelerating adoption of technologies from the companies in this group.

What's the difference between 3D and 4D LiDAR?

Traditional 3D LiDAR captures spatial information (width, height, depth) to create a three-dimensional map of surroundings. 4D LiDAR adds a fourth dimension: velocity. It can directly measure how fast objects are moving toward or away from the sensor. This capability allows autonomous systems to more quickly understand complex traffic scenarios, potentially improving reaction times and safety.

15 handpicked stocks

Autopilot on Trial

This carefully selected group of stocks focuses on companies that could benefit from increased scrutiny of autonomous driving technology. As Tesla's Autopilot faces legal challenges, demand may surge for advanced sensors, software, and safety systems from these innovative suppliers.

Han Tan | Market Analyst

Updated 2 days ago | Published at juillet 15