Hesai Technology, a leader in lidar solutions, has entered an exclusive partnership with electric vehicle maker Leapmotor. This deal makes Hesai the sole provider of long-range lidar for Leapmotor’s upcoming vehicle platform, set to enhance intelligent driving systems. The collaboration aims to advance autonomous technology, with the first vehicle from this partnership scheduled for mass production in 2025, supporting Leapmotor’s global expansion plans.
A Strategic Alliance for Next-Generation Vehicles
The agreement between Hesai Technology and Leapmotor marks a significant milestone for both companies. It formalizes an exclusive relationship where Hesai will supply its advanced long-range lidar systems for all models built on Leapmotor’s new vehicle platform.
This partnership is not just a supplier agreement; it represents a deep integration of hardware and software. The collaboration is designed to ensure that Leapmotor’s advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are powered by top-tier perception technology. The first model under this new platform is eagerly anticipated and will hit the mass production stage by 2025.
Fueling Leapmotor’s Global Expansion Strategy
Leapmotor has been actively expanding its presence outside of its home market, with a strong focus on Europe. The company already operates through a network of over 200 dealers across 13 European countries.
To support this growth, Leapmotor plans to increase its sales points to 500 by the end of 2025. Integrating Hesai’s sophisticated lidar technology is a strategic move to ensure its vehicles are competitive and appealing to a global audience. This technology allows Leapmotor to offer advanced features that are increasingly in demand in the competitive electric vehicle market.
How the AT128 Lidar Enhances Driving Safety
The centerpiece of this deal is Hesai’s AT128, an ultra-high-definition long-range lidar. This sensor is crucial for enabling a higher level of vehicle autonomy and safety. It provides the vehicle’s computer with a detailed, three-dimensional map of its surroundings, allowing it to navigate complex environments with greater precision.
The integration of the AT128 lidar will directly enhance several of Leapmotor’s key intelligent driving features.
- Navigation Assist Pilot (NAP): This feature helps with automated navigation on highways, including lane changes and overtaking.
- Navigation Assisted Cruise (NAC): An advanced cruise control system that adapts to road conditions and navigation routes.
- Improved Hazard Detection: The lidar can detect small objects and pedestrians at long distances, giving the system more time to react.
By equipping its C-series models with this technology, Leapmotor is prioritizing a safer and more seamless driving experience. This focus on advanced lidar underscores a commitment to reducing human error on the roads through reliable automation.
What This Deal Means for the Future of Autonomous Driving
The exclusive agreement between Hesai and Leapmotor is more than a simple business transaction; it reflects a broader industry trend. Lidar is rapidly becoming a standard component for vehicles aiming to offer meaningful autonomous driving capabilities.
This partnership serves as a strong signal to the market about the essential role of high-performance sensors in the safe rollout of intelligent vehicles. As demand for ADAS continues to grow worldwide, collaborations like this are vital for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in automotive technology. It positions both companies as leaders in a rapidly evolving industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the Hesai and Leapmotor partnership?
The primary goal is for Hesai to exclusively supply its advanced AT128 long-range lidar for Leapmotor’s next-generation vehicle platform, significantly enhancing its autonomous driving and safety features.
Which specific lidar model is being used?
Leapmotor will integrate Hesai’s AT128, an ultra-high-definition long-range lidar known for its superior perception capabilities, into its new C-series models.
When will the first car from this collaboration be available?
The first vehicle model developed under this new platform, featuring Hesai’s lidar technology, is scheduled to begin mass production in 2025.
How does this partnership affect Leapmotor’s presence in Europe?
This deal strengthens Leapmotor’s position in Europe by equipping its vehicles with advanced safety and autonomous features, making them more competitive as the company expands its dealer network across the continent.
