Velodyne Lidar announced its collaboration with Nikon as the optical technology company invests US$ 25 million in Velodyne. The two companies have begun discussions for a multifaceted business alliance.

The purpose of the strategic partnership is to combine Nikon’s optical and precision technologies with Velodyne’s sensor technology. According to Velodyne, the relationship aims to advance the timeline for manufacturing and mass production of LiDAR for the autonomous and advanced safety global market. The parties have begun investigating a wide-ranging business relationship, including collaboration in technology development and manufacturing.

(Image: Velodyne)

“Velodyne is creating a network of powerful alliances supporting the global autonomous vehicle industry,” said David Hall, Velodyne Lidar’s Founder and CEO. “One hundred years ago, optics and camera technologies like Nikon’s helped people to see better. Now, the basis of those technologies is helping computers see.”

LiDAR sensors emit short light pulse to scan surrounding objects and detect the distance of them. It plays a key role in the development of autonomous driving technology. With its LiDAR solution, Velodyne has dedicated to promote how LiDAR technolog support driving assistance and improve vehicle operation safety.