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Steven Jenkins, Vice President of Technology Strategy, Magna joined Grayson Brulte on The Road to Autonomy podcast to discuss Magna’s partner approach to developing autonomous driving systems.
The conversation begins with Steven discussing how Magna is approaching safety systems.
Magna is one of the only real few suppliers that has the entire set of enablers to make it happen and do a complete system. So we are thinking about the whole system as a package rather than individual pieces of the package, and that allows us to develop these market leading products that deliver the enhanced safety and convenience for the driver. – Steven Jenkins
The software defined vehicle will unlock continuous updates to the vehicle, unlocking new features and functions. Eventually these software updates will be able to upgrade vehicles to enable autonomous driving functionality depending on their sensor package.
As vehicles become more advanced with higher levels of autonomy, the debate around driver monitoring creeps into the conversation and ultimately leads to the question; when is the right time to introduce driver monitoring? That question ultimately comes down to the OEM. While the OEM makes that decision, Magna is working on a series of in-cabin monitoring solutions that benefit the driver and the passengers.
This approach will benefit their OEM customers as they introduce higher levels of autonomy. Magna is approaching autonomy as as a step-wise approach.
In a kind of autonomous scenario you are really taking a kind of huge leap in terms of what you can do with a vehicle, but you are not taking as big as a leap when it comes to technology. A lot of things are pretty similar. – Steven Jenkins
A hybrid market that comprises of both robotaxis and personally owned autonomous vehicles could emerge at some point in the future. How the economics of these models emerge will depend on the companies that make the product available and take the risk from a financing perspective. Either way, Magna will be there from a technological standpoint to help their partners and customers usher in the future of autonomy.
Wrapping up the conversation, Steven shares his opinion on the future of mobility.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:39 Magna'a Safety Complete System Approach
3:29 Software Defined Vehicles
5:09 Neural Network Approach to Autonomous Driving
9:28 Driver Monitoring
15:38 Magna's Approach to Autonomous Driving
30:10 New and Emerging Technologies
35:56 Staying Ahead of the Market
37:43 Future of Mobility
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7eWk5Li6UKc
“This confirms the strong customer appeal of the compact class models built in Regensburg, the BMW X1 and the BMW X2,” underlined Ebner. The second generation of the BMW X2 went into production in Regensburg in November. The global market launch of the vehicle manufactured exclusively at BMW Group Plant Regensburg took place on 2 March. Its main markets will be China, the US and Europe.
Ebner anticipates a further increase in the number of vehicles produced in Regensburg in 2024. To be more precise, the plant will be able to manufacture well over 300,000 units per year, if justified by market demand. Production of electric models, in particular, is expected to increase significantly. In 2024, at least one in three BMWs leaving the BMW Group’s Bavarian vehicle plants should be an electric car – and the same applies to Regensburg.
“With the BMW iX1 and BMW iX2, we will continue to inspire customers around the world with fully-electric driving pleasure from Regensburg,” said Ebner. Europe is a particularly important sales market for the fully-electric BMW iX2. In its domestic market of Germany, for instance, the BMW iX1 was Germany’s ninth most popular electric car, with 14,694 new vehicle registrations in 2023, according to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA).
https://www.automotiveev.com/bmw-group-ramps-up-investment-and-hiring-in-upper-palatinate-plant-regensburg/
According to BMW, the Wackersdorf site will also become an important contributor to the shift to EV production: “The first deliverables from our new battery testing centre will enter into regular operation in Wackersdorf from mid-2024 onwards,” says Ebner. The new test centre will cover an area of more than 8,000 square metres and be integrated into the site’s existing building structures. High-voltage batteries and other electric drive components for future BMW Group models will be tested there at a very early stage of development – well before the start of production.
In 2023, a total of 238,301 new BMWs were built in Regensburg, and the plant manager expects higher numbers in 2024. “Since we added a night shift in autumn of last year, our daily production has already increased by about 300 vehicles, to 1,300 currently,” says Ebner. “We already hired more than 500 new staff in 2023. For 2024, we are planning on recruiting another 600 for our production.” BMW is looking to hire people in areas with skill shortages, such as maintenance and electronics.
https://www.electrive.com/2024/03/19/bmw-also-builds-neue-klasse-in-regensburg/#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20a%20total%20of,1%2C300%20currently%2C%E2%80%9D%20says%20Ebner.
Comprehensive Protection: Additional Safety Features of the 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Beyond the advanced driving assist and night vision capabilities, here are some additional safety features that solidify the Grand Wagoneer’s status as a guardian on the road:
Intersection collision assist: This system monitors cross traffic at intersections, warning you of potential collisions and engaging automatic braking, if necessary, to prevent an accident.
Traffic sign recognition: Stay informed and compliant with traffic laws. This intelligent feature detects and displays traffic signs directly on your dashboard, ensuring you never miss essential road information.
Drowsy driver detection: This system keeps a vigilant eye on your driving patterns. If signs of fatigue are detected, it alerts you to take a break, safeguarding against the dangers of drowsy driving.
Vehicle Safe with Touchpad Activation: Secure your valuables within the in-vehicle safe. Touchpad activation allows only authorized access, providing peace of mind when you step away from your SUV.
Each element works in concert to create an omnipresent shield around your vehicle. These meticulously engineered safety features allow drivers to enjoy their 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer journeys with security and confidence.
https://www.chrisnikel.com/blogs/4899/
Decent numbers sold 244,000 last year
Without fanfare, Stellantis entered the Level 2 hands-free driver-assist system game late in 2023.
Stellantis’ system is named Hands-Free Active Driving Assist, and it launched with the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
What is Hands-Free Active Driving Assist?
Confusingly, Stellantis offers an Active Driving Assist system and a Hands-Free Active Driving Assist system. The former is a fancy term for Stellantis’ active lane control, also known as lane-keeping assist, which requires hands on the wheel at all times. This system can be used on any road with visible lane markings.
Hands-Free Active Driving Assist is Stellantis’ new system, and it enables hands-free driving, but only on mapped roads.
Making matters more confusing, Jeep’s website swaps the two terms in certain places, but Hands-Free Active Driving Assist is more involved and has greater capabilities.
https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1142310_stellantis-hands-free-active-driving-assist-system-launched
A handy written version of the whole presentation of anyone missed it.
Earnings call: Seeing Machines reports H1 2024 growth and outlook
Company Outlook
The company forecasts a 100% compound annual growth rate in automotive royalties, a primary driver of profit and cash.
A continuous reduction in monthly cash burn is projected, aiming for a cash flow break-even run rate in FY’25.
Seeing Machines is confident in meeting the expectations set for the second half of the year and beyond.
Bearish Highlights
Despite a stable financial position, the company reported a free cash outflow of just under $14 million for the period.
Questions about the share price were raised, suggesting it does not reflect the company's current value.
Bullish Highlights
The Generation 3 product launch and potential growth in the enterprise market are anticipated to drive further expansion.
Significant revenue increase in the aviation sector due to the start of work for the Collins contract.
One-third of automotive royalties are backed by volume guarantees, providing confidence in future bookings.
Misses
The company addressed criticism about missing targets but maintained that they are on track with their plans.
Q&A Highlights
Management discussed the possibility of moving to NASDAQ in the future but confirmed no immediate plans.
The technical sales process and two-stage sales plan for the aftermarket segment were explained.
Progress with Collins and other training simulator manufacturers was updated, with ongoing programs and RFQs in progress.
The relationship with Qualcomm (NASDAQ:QCOM) was clarified amidst discussions of market competition and missed targets.
https://m.uk.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/earnings-call-seeing-machines-reports-h1-2024-growth-and-outlook-93CH-3387791
Brock
Here’s the correct estimate.
Looking ahead, Seeing Machines says it is well placed to deliver continued progress in the year ahead with a typical weighting to the second half. Chief Executive Officer Paul McGlone cites "balance sheet strength and proven technology supported by regulatory changes." The company anticipates that its financial performance for financial year 2024 will be in line with consensus. Says consensus is revenue of USD66.3 million, up 15% from USD57.8 million in financial 2023, cash loss before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of USD28.4 million, and a cash position of USD26.1 million, 28% lower compared to net cash of USD36.1 million at June 30, 2023.
#BusinessUpdate We have received a financing commitment of up to $150 million. In addition to this update, we have delivered approximately 1,300 vehicles so far in 2024.
See the Form 8-K Fisker filed with the SEC for more information here: https://lnkd.in/eP_xegUf
18-Mar-24 13:19:22 5.06 100,000 Sell* 5.06 5.09 5,060 A
18-Mar-24 13:19:17 5.09 40,000 Sell* 5.09 5.15 2,036 A
18-Mar-24 11:43:47 5.10 1,852,200 Unknown* 5.09 5.20 94.46k O
18-Mar-24 11:42:05 5.13 1,800,000 Unknown* 5.09 5.20 92.34k O
18-Mar-24 11:26:56 5.10 1,852,201 Unknown* 5.09 5.20 94.46k O
18-Mar-24 11:24:00 5.13 1,000,000 Sell* 5.07 5.20 51.30k O
18-Mar-24 11:22:27 5.13 500,000 Sell* 5.07 5.20 25.65k O
Seize
When manufactured the counter goes up.
Id love 10p for every mars bar in the back store of every shop in the World sitting on the shelf though ;)
Brock
Even the OEMs are guessing on numbers.
Volkswagen's deliveries to customers rose 12% to 9.24 million vehicles in 2023.
The automaker joins rivals in warning of a challenging year. When Stellantis reported results last month, it predicted a "turbulent" 2024.
Volkswagen said on Wednesday it expected a boost to vehicle orders in Western Europe in the coming months from new models including fully electric ones.
The company, which recently launched the electric ID.7 and plans a record 30 more new models during 2024, said it had "started the new year with a clearly positive trend" compared with the start of last year.
The new EV launches come as demand growth for electric cars has been slowing. German rival Mercedes-Benz said last month it was delaying its electrification goal by five years and would keep revamping combustion-engine models.
When asked about demand for EVs, Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume said they were "the future, period", but added: "we're flexible enough to adapt to changes in different markets".
1. New EVs not sure how market takes to them
2. Economic uncertainty
3. New models with no track record on annual sales
With alot of SEE in new EV models if you want a guarantee buy a toaster ;)
Interesting article saying VW bringing out 30 models in 2024.
Volkswagen expects surge in Western Europe orders with rollout of new models
https://www.republicworld.com/business/international-business/volkswagen-expects-surge-in-western-europe-orders-with-rollout-of-new-models/
Seize
Was all in the report.
Seeing Machines Ltd (AIM:SEE, OTC:SEEMF) is on course to meet second-half-weighted full-year forecasts this year and profitability next following the release of interim results earlier on Monday, analysts say.
Driven by new rules mandating driver monitoring technology in cars from later this year, Seeing Machines should enjoy a solid end to the year, Stifel analysts noted on Monday.
Alongside this, "we think the company has a comfortable level of cash to reach run-rate profitability in 2025", the bank added, given the new regulatory rules and as shipments of its latest aftermarket driver monitoring system get underway.
“The opportunity for the company has never been as clear as it is today,” Stifel said, highlighting Seeing Machines’ US$22.2 million cash position.
“Investors should take advantage of the share price as it accelerates toward profitability,” the bank added, reiterating a share price target of 15p.
The most significant development to date in the evolution of #driver #monitoring #DMS and #cabin monitoring #CMS is the single optical path DMS+CMS system for #interiorsensing integrated into the Magna International #occupant monitoring #mirror. Seeing Machines has today confirmed that that program has now reached start of production #SoP.
As discussed in January, the "large German OEM" is assumed to be Volkswagen based on research at #CES where the #VW press conference featured an ID.7 and the latest generation Golf Mk 8.5, both clearly with the Magna occupant mirror installed. Specifically the program wins involved are assessed to be the MQB evo and MEB (ID #EV) platforms. The potential annual production volumes here are huge.
I experienced the performance of this product first hand at CES. That is me in the center of the picture below, taking the photograph during the Magna demonstration.
Integrating fully featured interior sensing (DMS+CMS) into a single optical path inside the rear-view mirror #RVM is such a significant technical development that this program win has been subject to endless speculation and misinformation within the #incabin industry about whether interior sensing for #GSR and #NCAP compliance is even possible from the RVM.
So important is the significance of the product that many #OEMs have paused and completely rethought their interior monitoring development plans, taking a "wait and see" approach to the first win. Today the product is confirmed at SoP and will be tested and scored by Euro NCAP - For Safer Cars, Vans & Trucks soon enough. The outcome of those tests will be irrefutable and industry developments and design awards will inevitably go from there.
Magna isn't waiting and is so confident of the commercial success of the program that it already has a second generation product in development. The only other significant RVM player is Gentex, which showed at CES a dual-optical path solution, with #NFOV IR image sensor covering the driver located in the RVM chin, and a fish-eye IR sensor in the overhead console covering the cabin for body-pose estimation of all occupants.
Production for VW started in March, so only about one month of build will feature in the Q1 #KPIs that Seeing Machines will publish in May. The exciting numbers will come in August, with the Q2 KPIs featuring the full three month build.
A detailed article on the Magna RVM solution was published in The Ojo-Yoshida Report at: https://lnkd.in/e9fAEw3d
Link to full announcement: https://lnkd.in/emW_Sjka
For institutional investors, family offices, and others seeking an expert third-party source to understand trends in the DMS, CMS and OMS market, I can be booked for telephone-based consultancy via GLG, Guidepoint, and Third Bridge Group Limited. Just ask for me by name.
Couple bigger ones showing as sells but time and price prob buys?
18-Mar-24 11:24:00 5.13 1,000,000 Sell* 5.07 5.20 51.30k O
18-Mar-24 11:22:27 5.13 500,000 Sell* 5.07 5.20 25.65k O
18-Mar-24 10:57:51 5.1188 17,741 Sell* 5.07 5.20 908.13 O
18-Mar-24 10:55:05 5.07 1,567 Sell* 5.07 5.20 79.45 O
18-Mar-24 10:47:34 5.07 146,717 Buy* 5.06 5.07 7,439 A
18-Mar-24 10:47:31 5.07 1,000 Buy* 5.06 5.07 50.70 O
18-Mar-24 10:47:31 5.07 100,000 Buy* 5.06 5.07 5,070 A
18-Mar-24 10:47:31 5.07 231,622 Buy* 5.06 5.07 11.74k A
The Magna mirror was on show at CES in January.
I read somewhere it put the cat amongst the pigeons and OEMs are looking at all the options now. If it does what it says on the tin and is cost effective then surely will start selling well.
Seeing Machines Ltd (AIM:SEE, OTC:SEEMF) reported first-half results in line with guidance and announced that production has begun on its largest-ever contract, a US$82 million (£64.4 million) interior cabin monitoring program for a large German automotive manufacturer.
Underlying revenue growth in the six months to 31 December was up 28% to US$25.6 million compared to a year earlier, as flagged in a pre-close update.
When including one-off Magna Electronics exclusivity payments, reported revenue growth was 5%.
OEM revenue from Automotive and Aviation was US$11.4 million, down from US$14 million last time, though high margin-per-vehicle royalty revenue from automotive production increased 35% to US$4.2 million
Annualised recurring revenues were up 22% to US$14.5 million, while aftermarket (fleet and off-road) revenue increased 38% to US$14.3 million.
Seeing Machines penned a net loss of US$19.8 million compared to US$4.5 million a year earlier.
Development expenditure is expected to reduce in the second half.
Net operating cashflows improved to a net outflow of US$1.1 million from US$6.8 million, with the company stressing it maintained a disciplined focus on working capital management.
Cash of US$22.2 million was in the bank at the half-year stage, with a receivables and inventory balance of US$31.1 million with working capital unwind of $5-6 million expected in the second half.
Looking to the rest of the year, Seeing Machines has a typical weighting to the second half, and the board has retained its expectations that the full-year financial performance will be in line with consensus.
Chief executive Paul McGlone hailed the start of the cabin-sensing project with the German OEM client on schedule, stating: “We look forward to volume from the ramping up over the course of the next few quarters as production gets into full swing."
https://www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk/companies/news/1043350/bytes-says-resigned-ceo-carried-out-119-undisclosed-share-deals-1043350.html