Magna Introduces 'Invisible' Autonomous Technology For Integration Into Every Vehicle

By Henny Hemmes
Senior European Editor
The Auto Channel

The Hague September 26, 2017; Last week, Magna, the largest automotive supplier of North America, joined the race for developing fully autonomous driving cars with a new platform called MAX4. The platform includes cameras, radar, LiDAR and ultrasonic sensors, along with a computer platform that provides Level autonomous technology. It also includes a cruise control-like user interface that is controlled by a push of a button. An illuminated display indicates that the vehicle is in autonomous mode and drivers can turn off that mode via the brake pedal or emergency button.

What is impressive Is that MAX4 can be integrated into any vehicle, be it existing or future platforms, including those for hybrid and electric vehicles. Car manufacturers do not have to change the interior or exterior of their cars because the sensors and detection systems are all compact and completely hidden (for example, no large LiDAR system on the roof). This is a big deal because it provides the automotive industry with the potential for a standardized platform for full autonomy, as opposed to the fragmented approach currently prevailing. Magna will show MAX4 next week at the IAA in Frankfurt.

In addition, Qualcomm introduced a new chipset that could revolutionize the 'automotive-to-everything' (V2X) image. The C-V2X chipset uses both 4G and 5G to deliver messages between cars and other cars, infrastructure and pedestrians - all without the need for an Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), mobile subscription or network support. Audi, Ford and PSA have all promised to test the new chipset in their cars. (Source: AT)