By 2030, the total number of autonomous vehicles (AV) globally is expected to reach 62.4 million, up from 20.3 million in 2021. As such, it is not surprising that LiDAR—the sensor capable of rendering digital 3D representations of its immediate surrounding—is forecast to enjoy similar growth. Indeed, Grand View Research estimates the market value will rise 160% across the same period from US$1.8bn to US$4.7bn
LiDAR technology is proving itself to be essential in the quest to realise truly self-driving vehicle services. From autonomous buses in the UK to robotaxis in China and last-mile transport in the Arctic Circle, it underpins the real-world modelling upon which many manufacturers are basing their hopes for unlocking AVs’ potential.
