Wayve Secures Deal with Nissan to Install Autonomous Driving Software in Vehicles
Wayve, a London-based autonomous driving start-up, has secured a deal with Japan’s Nissan to install its software in vehicles from 2027. This marks a significant milestone for Wayve as it aims to accelerate its international expansion.
About the Deal
The agreement with Nissan is a key milestone for Wayve, which has raised over $1bn from investors including SoftBank, Microsoft, and Nvidia last year. The deal involves the installation of Wayve’s “Level 2” advanced driver assistance software in Nissan’s vehicles, which will combine the use of camera, lidar sensor, and radar technology.
What Does the Software Do?
Wayve’s AI system allows vehicles to learn while driving, avoiding the need for high-priced sensors and high-definition 3D maps. The company claims that it will eventually be able to offer similar capabilities at a fraction of the cost of Alphabet-owned Waymo’s vehicles, which currently require expensive sensors and computing equipment to ensure safe operation.
Why Japan is a Natural Target for Wayve
Japan is a natural target for Wayve’s global expansion considering its ties with SoftBank. Despite being the world’s fourth-largest automotive market, Japan has lagged behind in electric vehicles and self-driving technology compared with China or the US.
Nissan’s Efforts in Autonomous Driving
Nissan has long been developing self-driving technology using lidar cameras to build up a 3D picture of the car’s surroundings. However, the company has faced ballooning costs of developing software, especially as it wrestles with a financial crisis that has triggered the recent exit of its chief executive.
Conclusion
The deal between Wayve and Nissan marks a significant milestone in the development of autonomous driving technology. With its AI system allowing vehicles to learn while driving, Wayve is poised to revolutionize the industry and make autonomous driving more accessible and affordable.
FAQs
Q: What does Wayve’s deal with Nissan entail?
A: The deal involves the installation of Wayve’s “Level 2” advanced driver assistance software in Nissan’s vehicles from 2027.
Q: What is Wayve’s AI system capable of?
A: Wayve’s AI system allows vehicles to learn while driving, avoiding the need for high-priced sensors and high-definition 3D maps.
Q: Why is Japan a natural target for Wayve’s global expansion?
A: Japan is a natural target due to its ties with SoftBank and the country’s lagging behind in electric vehicles and self-driving technology.
Q: What are the benefits of Wayve’s technology?
A: Wayve’s technology offers similar capabilities at a fraction of the cost of Alphabet-owned Waymo’s vehicles, making autonomous driving more accessible and affordable.
