Nature Communications (Sep 2024)

Evolution of laser technology for automotive LiDAR, an industrial viewpoint

  • Dong Liang,
  • Cheng Zhang,
  • Pengfei Zhang,
  • Song Liu,
  • Huijie Li,
  • Shouzhu Niu,
  • Ryan Z. Rao,
  • Li Zhao,
  • Xiaochi Chen,
  • Hanxuan Li,
  • Yijie Huo

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51975-6
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 15, no. 1
pp. 1 – 7

Abstract

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From an industry perspective, the past decade has been a whirlwind of innovation in automotive light detection and ranging (LiDAR). Numerous laser technologies and system solutions have been fiercely competing for market share. However, recent trends suggest a growing convergence on vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) and antireflective VCSEL (AR-VCSEL) based solutions. This commentary, rooted in the practical realities of the industry, examines the historical trajectory of industrial laser technology for commercial automotive LiDAR. It specifically focuses on the recent applications of VCSEL/AR-VCSEL technologies and their future prospects.