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| Israeli startup Imagry takes contrarian mapless approach to autonomous driving |
TEL AVIV, Israel — To map or not to map? That is the question facing autonomous driving technology developers.
Most use sensor data to compile detailed high-definition maps that chart roadway dimensions and features such as merging lanes, overpasses, signals and crosswalks. Others take a lighter approach, building maps that provide less detail.
While these maps inform the driving system about the fixed aspects of the road and potential hazards, some companies, most notably Tesla, go without them.
Imagry, an Israeli startup in Haifa, is moving ahead without high-definition maps, arguing that its system better mimics human perception and is more efficient and less costly than other autonomous systems.
“It’s impractical to try to map the entire world in a resolution of a few centimeters,” Imagry CEO Eran Ofir told Automotive News.
Moreover, building and street construction, detours and other factors can make sections of maps inaccurate almost daily, he said.
Autonomous systems need the capability to operate independently, without the aid of external map data that could be outdated or subject to communications glitches that block access to cloud-based information, Ofir said.
— Jerry Hirsch
What you need to know
Radar technology gets a refreshed, bigger role in automated driving systems: Advances in radar could make it easier to develop and deploy automated-driving technology. A number of companies are working on products they think might soon supplant lidar.
Tesla’s charging pact with Ford could draw more automakers to Supercharger network: Tesla CEO Elon Musk says he wants to help rivals with the EV transition. Analysts say charging deals could also turn the Supercharger network into a business opportunity.
Ree Automotive looks to change EV truck architecture with four-corner technology: Israeli startup Ree Automotive has an innovative drive-by-wire design that uses electric-powered wheel and steering modules.
Roundup
NHTSA proposes “safety milestone” rule requiring automatic emergency braking for new vehicles.
Tesla Model Y was the world’s best-selling car in Q1.
Nvidia’s latest collaboration pushes further on software-defined vehicles.
NHTSA closes investigation into Tesla game feature.
Ford finds promise in subscriptions for commercial buyers.
Brain food
Ferrari on self-driving cars: “We don’t care.”
Last mile
Got milk in your fuel tank? You soon might.