Chinese Lidar Sensors Enable Autonomous Driving in BMW Plants
China’s Hesai Group, recognized as the world’s largest manufacturer of lidar sensors for autonomous driving, has partnered with two European technology firms, Embotech AG and Outsight, to develop advanced autonomous navigation systems for BMW assembly plants in Germany. This collaboration aims to allow vehicles to navigate independently within specific manufacturing facilities. Embotech AG contributes its Automated Driving In-Plant technology, which is currently deployed at BMW’s largest European plant in Dingolfing. Hesai supplies the critical lidar sensors that function as the visual components of the system, while Outsight processes the raw, real-time data generated by these sensors to ensure seamless operation. According to a joint statement, cars equipped with Hesai’s lidar technology can drive fully autonomously along routes exceeding one kilometer. These routes extend from the assembly halls, through a short test course, and finally to the finishing area. This integration highlights the growing role of Chinese hardware in European industrial automation and underscores the collaborative nature of modern automotive technology development across international borders.
Wire timeline
Chinese Lidar Sensors Enable Autonomous Driving in BMW Plants
China’s Hesai Group, recognized as the world’s largest manufacturer of lidar sensors for autonomous driving, has partnered with two European technology firms, Embotech AG and Outsight, to develop advanced autonomous navigation systems for BMW assembly plants in Germany. This collaboration aims to allow vehicles to navigate independently within specific manufacturing facilities. Embotech AG contributes its Automated Driving In-Plant technology, which is currently deployed at BMW’s largest European plant in Dingolfing. Hesai supplies the critical lidar sensors that function as the visual components of the system, while Outsight processes the raw, real-time data generated by these sensors to ensure seamless operation. According to a joint statement, cars equipped with Hesai’s lidar technology can drive fully autonomously along routes exceeding one kilometer. These routes extend from the assembly halls, through a short test course, and finally to the finishing area. This integration highlights the growing role of Chinese hardware in European industrial automation and underscores the collaborative nature of modern automotive technology development across international borders.
TechNode