The development of intelligent driving is set to significantly boost the demand for sensors. Ultrasonic radar, millimeter wave radar, and multi-camera systems are already being used in high-end vehicles. As autonomous technology advances, environmental awareness technologies will evolve rapidly, further enhancing the synergy between different systems. Although sensors are just a part of autonomous vehicles, their market potential is vast.
According to Yole Développement, a leading French market research firm, intelligent driving relies heavily on cameras (long-range, surround, and stereo) and radar (ultrasonic, millimeter wave, and lidar). The most advanced smart cars currently have up to 17 sensors dedicated to autopilot, and this number is expected to rise to 29 by 2030.
Several foreign institutions, including HIS, MarketsandMarketsResearch, PlunkedtResearch, and MicroMarketMonitor, predict that by 2020, the global automotive camera, millimeter wave radar, and night vision system markets will enter a period of rapid growth.
Sensors are at the core of autonomous driving, with cameras playing a particularly critical role. Car cameras serve as the visual foundation for many ADAS functions, such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and pedestrian detection. They are also essential for panoramic parking and driver monitoring systems.
Camera prices have been steadily declining, making multi-camera setups more common. In 2010, a single camera cost over 300 yuan, but by 2014, it had dropped to around 200 yuan. This affordability makes cameras more accessible than other sensor types. Tesla’s Autopilot 2.0, for example, uses eight cameras, signaling a growing trend toward multi-camera configurations.
Forward-looking cameras are among the most frequently used, capable of performing multiple functions through algorithm optimization. These cameras can detect lane departures, monitor forward collisions, and even recognize pedestrians. Future advancements may allow them to support even more ADAS features.
Side-view cameras are also gaining popularity as they replace traditional rearview mirrors. By covering blind spots, these cameras enhance safety and reduce accident risks. Some manufacturers, like BMW, are exploring mirrorless designs using wide-angle side cameras to improve visibility and reduce wind resistance.
Panoramic parking systems use multiple cameras to provide drivers with a "bird's eye view" of the vehicle’s surroundings. This helps in navigating tight spaces and avoiding obstacles, significantly reducing the risk of scraping or collisions.
Looking ahead, the car camera market is expected to grow substantially. According to HIS, global vehicle camera shipments will increase from 28 million in 2014 to 83 million in 2020, representing a compound annual growth rate of 20%. The market size is projected to reach 13.3 billion yuan by 2020, up from 6.2 billion yuan in 2015.
The camera industry chain includes components such as lenses, CMOS sensors, DSP chips, and module packaging. While smartphone camera growth has slowed, the automotive sector is emerging as a key driver. Companies like Sony, Samsung, and OmniVision dominate the CMOS market, while domestic Chinese manufacturers are making progress in lens and module production.
In summary, the future of autonomous driving is closely tied to the evolution of sensor technologies, especially cameras. With continuous improvements in performance, affordability, and integration, the car camera market is poised for strong growth, offering significant opportunities for both global and local players.
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