Lidar Technology – Light Detection and Ranging

Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) is a technology developed to measure the distance between two objects with high precision using laser beams. Initially used for creating topographic maps of the Earth's surface by satellites, Lidar has, in recent years, become integrated into many aspects of daily life. From robotic vacuum cleaners and smartphones to autonomous vehicles and industrial robots, Lidar technology is now widely used across various sectors.

In autonomous vehicles, a total of nine cameras placed around the vehicle—front, rear, and sides—capture visual data and transmit it to the image processing system, enabling the vehicle’s computer to identify surrounding objects. Alongside the camera system, six Lidar sensors—designed for both short and long-distance measurements—accurately determine the distance between the vehicle and nearby objects. This functionality is similar to that of traditional parking sensors.

As autonomous vehicle technology advances and vehicle sales increase, the demand for Lidar sensors continues to grow. Publicly traded companies specializing in Lidar production include Luminar Technologies (LAZR), Velodyne (VLDR), AEye (LIDR), Ouster (OUST), Innoviz Technologies (INVZ), and Aeva Technologies (AEVA). These companies manufacture essential Lidar components used by global electric vehicle giants such as BMW, Tesla, Mercedes, and Volvo.

In recent years, autonomous vehicle technologies have also started to be applied in environments such as ports, warehouses, depots, and factories—especially in forklifts used for transporting and storing heavy loads. The lockdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic led to labor shortages and a surge in e-commerce activity, placing immense strain on logistics networks. In response, many companies turned to new business models and innovative technologies. One such solution has been the rapid development of autonomous forklift systems.

The evolution of 3D warehouse management software has enabled more efficient and optimized storage of goods, offering companies that adopt these technologies significant cost advantages. As warehouse space is utilized more effectively and labor is automated, increased efficiency is expected to translate into improved profitability.

One of the rapidly growing players in this space is Third Wave, a U.S.-based autonomous forklift manufacturer, fleet manager, and systems integrator founded in 2018. The company has raised $55 million across two funding rounds, with backing from venture capital firms such as Toyota Ventures, Norwest, and Eclipse. Third Wave’s autonomous forklifts operate in 3D environments and utilize Lidar sensors produced by Ouster Technologies.

Disruptive technologies are offering unparalleled opportunities for businesses to redesign traditional warehousing and inventory management practices. By increasing efficiency and reducing costs, these innovations are helping companies build smarter, more profitable supply chain operations.