Navtech Radar has been awarded a grant from Innovate UK to help the team carry out exciting research in the area of autonomous vehicle technology. In collaboration with the Oxford Robotics Institute (University of Oxford), the team will develop a sensor for autonomous vehicles that will provide 360-degree high resolution coverage in all weather conditions.
Navtech Radar’s all weather operations will significantly improve the capabilities and safety of the machines in difficult living conditions, when safe and reliable transportation is most critical. Automated vehicles need to be able to operate in a variety of weather conditions that change rapidly.
“If autonomous cars are to become commonplace, they need to work in all weathers – that’s a fact. Radar technology has the potential to do this in an affordable way, and we’re thrilled to be working with Navtech Radar to help make this a reality.”
— Prof. Paul Newman from Oxford University
With the majority of driverless cars operating in California – a state known for its perpetual blue skies – the need for accurate situational awareness in adverse weather conditions has been largely overlooked. The current sensors used cannot accurately function in heavy rain, snow or fog. Therefore, this research will be pivotal in ensuring autonomous vehicles can perform in all environments and appeal to an international market.
Philip Avery, Managing Director at Navtech Radar, described research and development as “a fundamental part of Navtech Radar’s DNA”.
Investments such as this grant are invaluable in fostering innovation and the creation of new products that meet customer requirements in the most effective, cost efficient way possible.
Innovate UK is the UK’s innovation agency. It works with people, companies and partner organizations to find and drive the science and technology innovations that will grow the UK economy.