LeddarTech and Integrated Device Technology (IDT) have announced that they have entered into an agreement to jointly carry out the development and supply of new LeddarCore LCA2 integrated circuits. The LeddarCore is a receiver IC which is a key element within an automotive LiDAR system. This newest generation of the LeddarCore IC will enable solid-state implementations of high-performance, low-cost automotive LiDARs, required for the mass-market deployment of semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles. As part of the agreement, IDT will leverage its advanced expertise in component requirements analysis, architecture, design, development, characterization, qualification and transfer, to LeddarTech for the manufacturing of the LCA2 circuits.
The LCA2 comes integrated with the patented Leddar signal acquisition and advanced processing algorithms, which generate a cleaner digital signal and lower detection thresholds as compared to other LiDAR methods and also achieve higher ranges and sensitivity at a much lower cost. The LCA2 allows automotive OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers to rapidly develop and achieve the high-volume production of optimized 2D and 3D flash LiDARs aimed at sub-$100 volume prices using readily available optoelectronic technologies. Solid-state LiDARs based on LeddarCore ICs can be customized and optimized to fit the specific requirements of the intended applications, that from advanced driving assistance applications (such as forward collision warning, advance emergency breaking, automated cruise control, and park assist) to fully autonomous driving solutions. These small-size LiDAR systems can easily be integrated into standard automotive components such as front grill, bumpers, head lights and tail lights for a seamless design.
LeddarTech has established itself in solid-state LiDAR technology and is rapidly gaining tremendous momentum within automotive Tier 1s and OEMs. With the development of the LeddarCore ICs, they are trying to position themself as one of the most credible players to enable the rapid integration of low-cost, high-performance LiDARs into mass-market vehicles in the shortest possible time frame. They showcased Functional LiDAR units demonstrating the capabilities of the LCA2 design at CES in January, and expects to initiate automotive LiDAR development and integration programs with select partners within the coming weeks. Engineering samples of the LCA2 ICs are currently expected in early 2018, and volume availability by the end of 2018.
