In the ever-evolving field of automotive technology, the transition from GaAs to SiGe and now to CMOS radar modules has been revolutionary. This transition has not only drastically reduced costs but also hints at a future where the price of standard 77 GHz radar could drop as low as US$30 by 2030. However, the aspirations extend beyond cost reduction. Indeed, there's a concerted effort to decrease the average selling price of state-of-the-art 4D imaging radar to align with OEMs' budget constraints.
According to Raphaël da Silva, technology and market analyst, RF at Yole Group, “Despite strides in radar technology, current capabilities still lag behind the requirements for fully autonomous driving. Module manufacturers are actively exploring diverse architectural approaches to bridge this disparity, aiming to expand the FOV and enhance angular resolution. This exploration involves strategies such as increasing RF channels, enhancing computing power or a combination of both to achieve optimal results. It's a dynamic landscape fostering innovation in pursuit of the ultimate goal of autonomous driving.”
Moreover, OEMs are leading a significant transition toward vehicle centralization, anticipated to be fully implemented between 2030 and 2035. This shift anticipates a future where more cost-effective, compact radars with advanced computational capabilities and superior system performance become the norm, paving the way for a truly autonomous driving experience.
Radar usage is also extending beyond its conventional applications, spurred by fresh FCC regulations and advancements in radar technology. This shift isn't limited to established sectors, such as automotive, industrial and defense; it's also penetrating emerging fields like consumer electronics and healthcare. Enhancements in precision, dimensions, affordability, and energy efficiency are aligning radar perfectly with these burgeoning markets, unlocking substantial prospects.
In this context, Yole Group has combined its significant semiconductor expertise and deep knowledge of RF technologies and markets to deliver its annual report, "Status of the Radar Industry." This study dives deep into the radar supply chain, the systems that use radar technology, and the latest trends in radar technology at various levels, from entire systems to antennas and devices. It explains the key factors that influence the global radar market and analyzes the competitive landscape in detail.