Gapwaves and Waymo partner to advance next-generation imaging radar for autonomous vehicles

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) and robot taxi services are operating in multiple cities, especially in the United States. Deployments within controlled environments are common and pilot programs are expanding as countries are adjusting regulations to enable the growth of fully autonomous services. Broader expansion of commercial fleets for delivery, freight and ride sharing will occur during the upcoming years. Yet, for autonomous vehicles to scale from pilot projects in controlled urban zones to global reality, they require technology that not only perceives everything but can also be mass-produced without compromising safety. 

Through the Future Mobility initiative, Gapwaves in Gothenburg, Sweden, has secured funding from Vinnova and the Swedish Energy Agency to advance high-performance sensing for autonomous driving. This project aims to evaluate the performance of Gapwaves’ MLW technology in relation to critical requirements for next-generation radar. 

A Transatlantic Synergy 

Gapwaves has developed and industrialized its unique Multi-Layer Waveguide (MLW) antenna technology for automotive radar sensors. This project aims to build on these compact, cost-efficient solutions and adapt them for autonomous vehicles – enabling advanced, scalable imaging radar technology that fulfils the stringent safety and reliability standards essential for autonomous driving. 

“As commercial fleets for delivery, freight, and ride sharing continue to grow, the industry faces important challenges around regulation, public acceptance, safety, and not least cost." says Nils Dagås, VP R&D at Gapwaves. "Next-generation imaging radar, enabled by our advanced waveguide antenna technology, will play a crucial role in meeting these demands. Through this research project, we are combining Gapwaves’ antenna expertise with our partner's deep understanding of imaging radar performance. Together, we look forward to exploring innovative solutions for future autonomous driving.” 

Strengthening the research and innovation network between Sweden and the United States 

This collaboration is the result of a joint effort led by Future Mobility, in collaboration with Vinnova and the Swedish Energy Agency, together with California’s Air Resources Board, Public Utilities Commission, and Energy Commission. The initiative is designed to foster partnerships and make the research and innovation (R&I) network between Sweden and the United States denser and to speed up the development towards sustainable mobility 

By reducing the cost of high-resolution sensing without sacrificing precision, Gapwaves are building a better sensor and the infrastructure for a safer, autonomous future. 

News