Honda Xcelerator Ventures has invested in SiLC Technologies Inc., a company at the forefront of developing frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) lidar technology. The investment aims to enhance the safety of Honda’s vehicles, aligning with its vision of achieving zero traffic-collision fatalities by 2050. SiLC Technologies has been recognized for its capability to detect objects from long distances, which is crucial for the advancement of autonomous driving and various robotic applications.
SiLC Technologies has been focused on producing key lidar components despite raising less capital compared to other lidar companies. The company has accumulated approximately $67 million to date, with a significant portion of funding coming from its customers. This customer-driven revenue model has allowed SiLC to maintain its focus on technological innovation and partnership development.
Honda Evaluates Eyeonic Before Investing
“SiLC went through a fairly hefty due-diligence process as Honda made sure that our technology is useful to it,”
said Mehdi Asghari, CEO of SiLC Technologies. The Eyeonic Vision System from SiLC, which includes four versions optimized for various AI and machine vision applications, was critically assessed by Honda. The technology aims to improve advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles by offering high-resolution, fast-speed object detection.
Asghari compared SiLC’s FMCW lidar with time-of-flight (ToF) systems, noting that SiLC’s technology detects objects such as tires at 150 meters and people in dark clothing at 300 meters. Additionally, SiLC’s systems have demonstrated a range of more than 1 kilometer for perimeter security applications.
FMCW Provides Crucial Data for AI, Says SiLC
SiLC stated that its advanced sensors provide high-quality data essential for training and testing machine vision algorithms. The Eyeonic Vision System offers machines near-human vision capabilities, enhancing real-time perception across sectors. Asghari highlighted the system’s ability to see through windshields and detect individuals at significant distances, thereby improving predictive behavior and reducing power requirements.
Investment to Grow U.S. Testing, Manufacturing
SiLC Technologies plans to expand its laboratory and manufacturing space in the U.S.
“We can do everything under one roof in Monrovia, [Calif.],”
said Asghari. The company aims to serve multiple markets including automotive, industrial robotics, and drone detection. SiLC’s sensors can work alongside cameras and radar to identify drones from kilometers away, determining whether they are friendly or hostile based on propeller velocity.
Honda’s investment is expected to accelerate SiLC’s progress towards fully autonomous solutions that enhance safety and address labor shortages in critical markets. The silicon photonics platform developed by SiLC provides a scalable, efficient, and cost-effective FMCW lidar engine suitable for high-volume automotive industry demands. This collaboration marks a significant step towards integrating advanced sensor technology in various applications, potentially transforming the landscape of autonomous mobility and robotics.
- Honda invests in SiLC Technologies for advanced lidar development.
- SiLC’s technology can detect objects at long distances, enhancing vehicle safety.
- The investment will expand SiLC’s U.S. manufacturing and testing capabilities.
