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{{short description|American technology company}}
{{short description|American technology company}}
{{use mdy dates|date=February 2022}}<!-- MOS:DATETIES -->
{{use mdy dates|date=February 2022}}<!-- MOS:DATETIES -->
{{advert|date=February 2022}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
|name = Velodyne Lidar
|name = Velodyne Lidar
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| image_size = 250px
| image_size = 250px
| image_caption = Headquarters in the [[Edenvale, San Jose|Edenvale]] district<br />of [[San Jose, California]] in 2021
| image_caption = Headquarters in the [[Edenvale, San Jose|Edenvale]] district<br />of [[San Jose, California]] in 2021
|foundation = {{Start date and age|2016}} as [[Velodyne Acoustics]] [[Corporate spin-off|spin-off]]
|foundation = 1983
|founder = David Hall<ref name="Management">{{cite web |title=Velodyne's Management |url=https://velodynelidar.com/management.html |website=velodynelidar.com}}</ref>
|founder = David Hall<ref name="Management">{{cite web |title=Velodyne's Management |url=https://velodynelidar.com/management.html |website=velodynelidar.com |access-date=February 4, 2019 |archive-date=February 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204231233/https://velodynelidar.com/management.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|location = [[San Jose, California]], United States
|location = [[San Jose, California]], United States
|type = [[Public company|Public]]
|type = [[Public company|Public]]
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|industry = [[Lidar]]
|industry = [[Lidar]]
|products = Lidar
|products = Lidar
|num_employees = 500<ref name="LiDAR Giant1"/>
|num_employees = 407<ref name=10K />
|num_employees_year = 2018
|num_employees_year = Dec 2021
|homepage = {{URL|http://www.velodynelidar.com}}
|homepage = {{URL|velodynelidar.com}}
|traded_as = {{nasdaq|VLDR}}<br />{{nasdaq|VLDRW}}
|traded_as = {{NASDAQ was|VLDR}}
| defunct = February 2023
| revenue ={{Increase}} $101.1 million (2019)<ref>https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2020/09/02/velodyne-lidar-says-it-will-go-public-this-month.html {{Bare URL inline|date=November 2021}}</ref>
| fate = Merged with [[Ouster (company)|Ouster]]
| revenue = {{decrease}} $61.92 million (2021)<ref name=10K>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1745317/000162828022004461/vldr-20211231.htm |title=U.S. SEC: Velodyne Lidar, Inc. 2021 Form 10-K Annual Report |publisher=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] |date=1 March 2022}}</ref>
|}}
|}}
'''Velodyne Lidar''' is a [[Silicon Valley]]-based [[lidar]] technology company, headquartered in [[San Jose, California]]. It was spun off from [[Velodyne Acoustics]] in 2016.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Snavely|first1=Brent|title=Tech firm Velodyne moves from audio to self-driving cars|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2016/08/28/tech-firm-velodyne-moves-audio-self-driving-cars/89525612/|access-date=March 29, 2017|work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|agency=[[USA Today]]|date=August 28, 2016}}</ref> As of July 2020, the company has had about 300 customers.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Lee |first1=Timothy |title=Lidar Is Finally Becoming a Real Business |url=https://www.wired.com/story/lidar-is-finally-becoming-a-real-business/ |access-date=September 11, 2020 |magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] |language=en-us}}</ref> Velodyne Lidar ships sensors to mobility industry customers for testing and commercial use in [[autonomous vehicle]]s, [[advanced driver assistance systems]], mapping, robotics, infrastructure and smart city applications.<ref name="LiDAR Giant1"/><ref>{{cite news |last1=Liz Cuneo |first1=Kevin Jost |title=Sensory inputs |url=https://www.assemblymag.com/articles/95888-sensory-inputs |access-date=September 14, 2020 |work=Assembly Magazine |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Desk |first1=News |title=Velodyne joins Qualcomm Smart Cities Accelerator Program |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/velodyne-joins-qualcomm-smart-cities-accelerator-program/ |access-date=December 22, 2020 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Desk |first1=News |title=Stunning 3D maps now with Velodyne Lidar |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/stunning-3d-maps-now-with-velodyne-lidar/ |access-date=August 20, 2020 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref>
'''Velodyne Lidar''' is a [[Silicon Valley]]–based [[lidar]] technology company, headquartered in [[San Jose, California]]. It was spun off from [[Velodyne Acoustics]] in 2016.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Snavely|first1=Brent|title=Tech firm Velodyne moves from audio to self-driving cars|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2016/08/28/tech-firm-velodyne-moves-audio-self-driving-cars/89525612/|access-date=March 29, 2017|work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|agency=[[USA Today]]|date=August 28, 2016}}</ref> As of July 2020, the company has had about 300 customers.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Lee |first1=Timothy B. |title=Lidar Is Finally Becoming a Real Business |url=https://www.wired.com/story/lidar-is-finally-becoming-a-real-business/ |access-date=September 11, 2020 |magazine=[[Ars Technica]] |via=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] |language=en-us}}</ref> Velodyne Lidar ships sensors to mobility industry customers for testing and commercial use in [[autonomous vehicle]]s, [[advanced driver assistance systems]], mapping, robotics, infrastructure and [[smart city]] applications.<ref name="LiDAR Giant1"/><ref>{{cite news |first1=Liz |last1=Cuneo |first2=Kevin |last2=Jost |title=Sensory inputs |url=https://www.assemblymag.com/articles/95888-sensory-inputs |access-date=September 14, 2020 |website=Assembly |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=<!-- No byline --> |title=Velodyne joins Qualcomm Smart Cities Accelerator Program |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/velodyne-joins-qualcomm-smart-cities-accelerator-program/ |date=December 22, 2020 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=<!-- No byline --> |title=Stunning 3D maps now with Velodyne Lidar |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/stunning-3d-maps-now-with-velodyne-lidar/ |date=August 20, 2020 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref> In February 2023, the company merged with [[Ouster (company)|Ouster]].


==History==
==History==
David Hall founded Velodyne in 1983 as an audio company specializing in subwoofer technology.<ref name="management">{{cite web|title=Management|url=http://velodynelidar.com/management.html|website=Velodyne LiDAR|access-date=March 24, 2017}}</ref><ref name="freep">{{cite news|last1=Snavely|first1=Brent|title=Ford to double Silicon Valley presence; invests $75M|url=http://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/ford/2016/08/16/ford-silicon-valley-velodyne-self-driving-cars/88810184/|access-date=March 24, 2017|work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|agency=[[USA Today]]|date=August 16, 2016}}</ref>
David Hall founded Velodyne in 1983 as an audio company specializing in [[subwoofer]] technology.<ref name="management">{{cite web|title=Management|url=http://velodynelidar.com/management.html|website=Velodyne Lidar|url-status=dead|access-date=March 24, 2017|archive-date=April 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170407124918/http://velodynelidar.com/management.html}}</ref><ref name="freep">{{cite news|last1=Snavely|first1=Brent|title=Ford to double Silicon Valley presence; invests $75M|url=http://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/ford/2016/08/16/ford-silicon-valley-velodyne-self-driving-cars/88810184/|access-date=March 24, 2017|work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|agency=[[USA Today]]|date=August 16, 2016}}</ref><!-- Contains the founding year but does not mention subwoofers -->


Velodyne's experience with laser distance measurement started in 2005, when David Hall and his brother Bruce (then president of Velodyne) entered a vehicle in a [[driverless car]] race called [[DARPA Grand Challenge]] sponsored by the [[Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency]] (DARPA).<ref>{{cite news |last1=Loughlin |first1=Ryan |title=How a Bunch of Geeks and Dreamers Jump-Started the Self-Driving Car |url=https://video.wired.com/watch/how-a-bunch-of-geeks-and-dreamers-jump-started-the-self-driving-car |access-date=November 10, 2017 |publisher=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]}}</ref> The experience led them to realize shortcomings both in camera-centric approaches and in existing lidar technology, which only scanned a single, fixed line of sight.<ref name="GCN">{{Cite web|url=http://gcn.com/articles/2007/08/03/engines-of-change.aspx|title=Engines of change|website=Government Computer News|date=2007}}</ref> Velodyne developed new sensors for the 2007 race. The brothers sold their perception detection system as a steering input to five of the six teams that finished the 2007 race. The system rotated 64 lasers and measured the [[time of flight]] to calculate distance of surrounding objects. This created a 360 degree 3D map of the environment.<ref name="SFG">{{Cite web|url=http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Robots-start-your-engines-3236937.php|title=Robots, start your engines|website=[[San Francisco Chronicle]] |date=November 4, 2007|access-date=April 29, 2016 }}</ref> The new system produced one million data points per second, while earlier systems produced 5,000 data points per second.<ref name="GCN"/>
Velodyne's experience with laser distance measurement started in 2005, when David Hall and his brother Bruce (then president of Velodyne) entered a vehicle in a [[driverless car]] race called [[DARPA Grand Challenge]] sponsored by the [[Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency]] (DARPA).<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Loughlin |first1=Ryan |title=How a Bunch of Geeks and Dreamers Jump-Started the Self-Driving Car |url=https://video.wired.com/watch/how-a-bunch-of-geeks-and-dreamers-jump-started-the-self-driving-car |access-date=November 10, 2017 |magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]}}</ref> The experience led them to realize shortcomings both in camera-centric approaches and in existing lidar technology, which only scanned a single, fixed line of sight.<ref name="GCN">{{Cite web|url=http://gcn.com/articles/2007/08/03/engines-of-change.aspx|title=Engines of change|website=Government Computer News|date=2007|access-date=April 10, 2013|archive-date=February 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140223085658/http://gcn.com/articles/2007/08/03/engines-of-change.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> Velodyne developed new sensors for the 2007 race. The brothers sold their perception detection system as a steering input to five of the six teams that finished the 2007 race. The system rotated 64 lasers and measured the [[time of flight]] to calculate distances to surrounding objects. This created a 360-degree 3D map of the environment.<ref name="SFG">{{Cite web|url=http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Robots-start-your-engines-3236937.php|title=Robots, start your engines|website=[[San Francisco Chronicle]] |date=November 4, 2007|access-date=April 29, 2016 }}</ref> The new system produced one million data points per second, while earlier systems produced 5,000 data points per second.<ref name="GCN"/>


[[File:Velodyne ProductFamily BlueLens 32GreenLens.png|thumb|A Velodyne HDL-64E, an HDL-32E, a Puck, and an Ultra Puck]]
[[File:Velodyne ProductFamily BlueLens 32GreenLens.png|thumb|A Velodyne HDL-64E, an HDL-32E, a Puck, and an Ultra Puck]]


Velodyne donated one of its early prototype sensors to the Robotics Collection at the [[Smithsonian Institution|Smithsonian Institution's]] [[National Museum of American History]] in 2011.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Williams|first1=Martyn|title=Driverless cars yield to reality: It's a long road ahead|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2043878/driverless-cars-yield-to-reality-its-a-long-road-ahead.html|access-date=May 1, 2017|work=PC World|date=8 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Wiley|first1=Kate|title=Smithsonian Adds to Robotics Collection and Invites Public to National Robotics Week Activities in Spark!Lab|url=http://invention.si.edu/about/news/smithsonian-adds-robotics-collection-and-invites-public-national-robotics-week-activities|access-date=May 1, 2017|work=Smithsonian Institution|date=April 5, 2011}}</ref>
Velodyne donated one of its early prototype sensors to the Robotics Collection at the [[Smithsonian Institution|Smithsonian Institution's]] [[National Museum of American History]] in 2011.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Williams|first1=Martyn|title=Driverless cars yield to reality: It's a long road ahead|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2043878/driverless-cars-yield-to-reality-its-a-long-road-ahead.html|access-date=May 1, 2017|work=PC World|date=July 8, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Wiley|first1=Kate|title=Smithsonian Adds to Robotics Collection and Invites Public to National Robotics Week Activities in Spark!Lab|url=http://invention.si.edu/about/news/smithsonian-adds-robotics-collection-and-invites-public-national-robotics-week-activities|access-date=May 1, 2017|work=Smithsonian Institution|date=April 5, 2011}}</ref>


In 2016, Velodyne's Lidar department was spun off from Velodyne Acoustics as Velodyne Lidar, Inc.<ref>{{cite web|title=Business Search|url=https://businesssearch.sos.ca.gov/CBS/SearchResults?SearchType=CORP&SearchCriteria=velodyne&SearchSubType=Keyword|website=California Secretary of State|access-date=May 1, 2017}}</ref> On August 16, 2016, Velodyne announced a $150M investment from [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]] and [[Baidu]].<ref name="USA Today">{{Cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/news/2016/08/16/ford-baidu-bet-150m-velodyne-laser-radar/88813028/|title=Ford, Baidu bet $150M on Velodyne laser radar|website=[[USA Today]]|access-date=August 16, 2016}}</ref>
In 2016, Velodyne's Lidar department was spun off from Velodyne Acoustics as Velodyne Lidar, Inc.<ref>{{cite web|title=Business Search|url=https://businesssearch.sos.ca.gov/CBS/SearchResults?SearchType=CORP&SearchCriteria=velodyne&SearchSubType=Keyword|website=California Secretary of State|access-date=May 1, 2017}}</ref> On August 16, 2016, Velodyne announced a $150 million investment from [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]] and [[Baidu]].<ref name="USA Today">{{Cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/news/2016/08/16/ford-baidu-bet-150m-velodyne-laser-radar/88813028/|title=Ford, Baidu bet $150M on Velodyne laser radar|website=[[USA Today]]|access-date=August 16, 2016}}</ref>


In 2017, Velodyne opened a factory in San Jose, California.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2017/01/18/high-tech-megafactory-in-san-jose-to-create.html |title=High-tech 'megafactory' in San Jose to create hundreds of jobs |website=Silicon Valley Business Journal |date=January 19, 2017 |access-date=February 8, 2022}}</ref> The company also has an [[R&D]] center in Alameda, California.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ohnsman |first1=Alan |title=How A 34-Year-Old Audio Equipment Company Is Leading The Self-Driving Car Revolution |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2017/08/08/how-a-34-year-old-audio-equipment-company-is-leading-the-self-driving-car-revolution/#c1aacd65d406 |access-date=September 5, 2017 |work=[[Forbes]]}}</ref> The same year, Velodyne also provided their sensors as a sponsor of the [[Formula SAE|SAE]] GM AutoDrive Challenge, a three-year competition in which eight university teams develop a Level 4 automated vehicle.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nguyen |first1=Johnny |title=David Hall: A Driving Force in the Industry |url=https://medium.com/@johnny123ng/david-hall-a-driving-force-in-the-industry-5d851261a869 |access-date=July 7, 2018 |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]] }}</ref>
In 2017, Velodyne opened a factory in San Jose, California.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2017/01/18/high-tech-megafactory-in-san-jose-to-create.html |title=High-tech 'megafactory' in San Jose to create hundreds of jobs |website=Silicon Valley Business Journal |date=January 19, 2017 |access-date=February 8, 2022}}</ref> The company also has an [[R&D]] center in Alameda, California.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ohnsman |first1=Alan |title=How A 34-Year-Old Audio Equipment Company Is Leading The Self-Driving Car Revolution |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2017/08/08/how-a-34-year-old-audio-equipment-company-is-leading-the-self-driving-car-revolution/#c1aacd65d406 |access-date=September 5, 2017 |work=[[Forbes]]}}</ref> The same year, Velodyne also provided their sensors as a sponsor of the [[Formula SAE|SAE]] GM AutoDrive Challenge, a three-year competition in which eight university teams develop an automated vehicle.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nguyen |first1=Johnny |title=David Hall: A Driving Force in the Industry |url=https://medium.com/@johnny123ng/david-hall-a-driving-force-in-the-industry-5d851261a869 |access-date=July 7, 2018 |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]] }}{{better source needed |date=March 2022 |reason=Medium is not a reliable source. See [[WP:MEDIUM]]. }}</ref>


Since 2018, Velodyne has partnered with [[Mothers Against Drunk Driving]] in a campaign to promote the use of autonomous vehicles for improving roadway safety and preventing impaired driving deaths.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Madd |title=Partner Spotlight: Velodyne LiDAR and the Future of Automated Cars |url=https://www.madd.org/blog/velodyne-lidar-autonomous-vehicle-technology/ |website=[[Mothers Against Drunk Driving]] |access-date=February 20, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Desk |first1=News |title=MADD partners with Velodyne LiDAR for advanced understanding of autonomous vehicle |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/madd-partners-with-velodyne-lidar-for-advance-understanding-of-autonomous-vehicle/ |access-date=July 31, 2019 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref> Since October 2018, Velodyne has organized an annual World Safety Summit on Autonomous Technology.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Do |first1=Kiet |title=World Safety Summit On Self Driving Car Tech Kicks Off At Levi's Stadium |url=https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2019/10/02/world-safety-summit-on-self-driving-car-tech-kicks-off-at-levis-stadium/ |access-date=October 2, 2019 |work=[[CBS]] San Francisco}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Desk |first1=News |title=Velodyne Lidar announces agenda for World Safety Summit on autonomous technology |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/velodyne-lidar-announces-agenda-for-world-safety-summit-on-autonomous-technology/ |access-date=October 15, 2020 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref> In the same year, the company also signed agreements to collaborate with [[Nikon]] and [[Veoneer]] for manufacturing and mass production.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Niedermeyer |first1=Edward |title=Velodyne-Veoneer Deal Shows Lidar Is Getting Serious |url=http://www.thedrive.com/tech/25986/velodyne-veoneer-deal-shows-lidar-is-getting-serious |access-date=January 16, 2019 |website=The Drive}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Mills |first1=Keith |title=Nikon Invests In 3D Lidar |url=http://metrology.news/nikon-invests-in-3d-lidar |access-date=January 2, 2019 |publisher=Metrology News}}</ref>
Since 2018, Velodyne has partnered with [[Mothers Against Drunk Driving]] in a campaign to promote the use of autonomous vehicles for improving roadway safety and preventing impaired driving deaths.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Madd |title=Partner Spotlight: Velodyne LiDAR and the Future of Automated Cars |url=https://www.madd.org/blog/velodyne-lidar-autonomous-vehicle-technology/ |website=[[Mothers Against Drunk Driving]] |date=February 20, 2018 |access-date=February 20, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=News Desk |title=MADD partners with Velodyne LiDAR for advanced understanding of autonomous vehicle |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/madd-partners-with-velodyne-lidar-for-advance-understanding-of-autonomous-vehicle/ |access-date=July 31, 2019 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref> Since October 2018, Velodyne has organized an annual World Safety Summit on Autonomous Technology.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Do |first1=Kiet |title=World Safety Summit On Self Driving Car Tech Kicks Off At Levi's Stadium |url=https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2019/10/02/world-safety-summit-on-self-driving-car-tech-kicks-off-at-levis-stadium/ |access-date=October 2, 2019 |work=[[CBS]] San Francisco}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=News Desk |title=Velodyne Lidar announces agenda for World Safety Summit on autonomous technology |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/velodyne-lidar-announces-agenda-for-world-safety-summit-on-autonomous-technology/ |access-date=October 15, 2020 |work=Geospatial World}}</ref> In the same year, the company also signed agreements to collaborate with [[Nikon]] and [[Veoneer]] for manufacturing and mass production.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Niedermeyer |first1=Edward |title=Velodyne-Veoneer Deal Shows Lidar Is Getting Serious |url=http://www.thedrive.com/tech/25986/velodyne-veoneer-deal-shows-lidar-is-getting-serious |access-date=January 16, 2019 |website=The Drive}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Mills |first1=Keith |title=Nikon Invests In 3D Lidar |url=http://metrology.news/nikon-invests-in-3d-lidar |access-date=January 2, 2019 |website=Metrology News |archive-date=January 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190122213325/http://metrology.news/nikon-invests-in-3d-lidar |url-status=dead }}</ref>


In July 2019, the company acquired mapping and localization software as well as intellectual property assets from Mapper.ai.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Yvkoff |first1=Liane |title=With Acquisition Of Mapper.ai, Velodyne Hastens Its Move Beyond Hardware |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/lianeyvkoff/2019/07/26/with-acquisition-of-mapperai-velodyne-hastens-its-move-beyond-hardware/?sh=7af6d1f5351f |access-date=July 26, 2019 |work=[[Forbes]] |language=en}}</ref>
In July 2019, the company acquired mapping and localization software as well as intellectual property assets from Mapper.ai.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Yvkoff |first1=Liane |title=With Acquisition Of Mapper.ai, Velodyne Hastens Its Move Beyond Hardware |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/lianeyvkoff/2019/07/26/with-acquisition-of-mapperai-velodyne-hastens-its-move-beyond-hardware/?sh=7af6d1f5351f |access-date=July 26, 2019 |work=[[Forbes]] |language=en}}</ref>
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In January 2020, Hall stepped down as CEO and was replaced by Anand Gopalan, who was previously CTO, although Hall initially remained [[chairman]] of the company's [[board of directors]] and continued to be the company's largest shareholder.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ohnsman |first1=Alan |title=Lidar Pioneer Velodyne Debuts $100 Auto Safety Sensor As Self-Driving Cars' Pace To Market Slows |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2020/01/07/lidar-pioneer-velodyne-debuts-100-auto-safety-sensor-as-self-driving-cars-pace-to-market-slows/#72701dc6cbc2 |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=Forbes}}</ref> On July 2, 2020, Velodyne Lidar merged with Graf Industrial Corp. to become a publicly-traded company. In September 2020, the company began trading stocks and warrants on [[NASDAQ]] under the ticker symbols VLDR and VLDRW.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://velodynelidar.com/blog/graf-and-velodyne-lidar-announcement/|title = GRAF and Velodyne Lidar Announcement|date = July 2, 2020}}</ref>
In January 2020, Hall stepped down as CEO and was replaced by Anand Gopalan, who was previously CTO, although Hall initially remained [[chairman]] of the company's [[board of directors]] and continued to be the company's largest shareholder.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ohnsman |first1=Alan |title=Lidar Pioneer Velodyne Debuts $100 Auto Safety Sensor As Self-Driving Cars' Pace To Market Slows |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2020/01/07/lidar-pioneer-velodyne-debuts-100-auto-safety-sensor-as-self-driving-cars-pace-to-market-slows/#72701dc6cbc2 |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=Forbes}}</ref> On July 2, 2020, Velodyne Lidar merged with Graf Industrial Corp. to become a publicly-traded company. In September 2020, the company began trading stocks and warrants on [[NASDAQ]] under the ticker symbols VLDR and VLDRW.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://velodynelidar.com/blog/graf-and-velodyne-lidar-announcement/|title = GRAF and Velodyne Lidar Announcement|date = July 2, 2020}}</ref>


In January 2021, Hall was censured by the company and removed as Chairman of the Board, and Hall's wife's emplyment at the company was terminated, as the relationship between the company and Hall together with Hall's wife became highly antagonistic, with the Halls and the company accusing each other of serious misconduct.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/profile/david-hall/?sh=3e9111ae6249 |title=David Hall |website=[[Forbes]] |access-date=February 9, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://velodynelidar.com/press-release/velodyne-lidar-responds-to-baseless-assertions-david-hall/ |title=Velodyne Lidar Responds to Baseless Assertions from David Hall, Marta Thoma Hall and Eric Singer (press release) |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=May 26, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://velodynelidar.com/press-release/velodyne-lidar-responds-to-david-halls-latest-false-statements/ |title=Velodyne Lidar Responds to David Hall's Latest False Statements (press release) |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=August 24, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://investors.velodynelidar.com/news-releases/news-release-details/velodyne-lidar-responds-latest-falsehoods-david-and-marta-thoma |title=Velodyne Lidar Responds to Latest Falsehoods from David and Marta Thoma Hall (press release) |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=October 27, 2021}}</ref> However, Hall has retained a large stake in the company and his wife has remained on its board of directors.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://investors.velodynelidar.com/corporate-governance/board-of-directors |title=Board of Directors |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=October 27, 2021 |access-date=February 9, 2022}}</ref>
In January 2021, Hall was censured by the company and removed as chairman of the board, and Hall's wife's employment at the company was terminated, as the relationship between the company and Hall together with Hall's wife Marta Thoma Hall became highly antagonistic, with the Halls and the company accusing each other of serious misconduct.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/profile/david-hall/?sh=3e9111ae6249 |title=David Hall |website=[[Forbes]] |access-date=February 9, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://velodynelidar.com/press-release/velodyne-lidar-responds-to-baseless-assertions-david-hall/ |title=Velodyne Lidar Responds to Baseless Assertions from David Hall, Marta Thoma Hall and Eric Singer (press release) |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=May 26, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://velodynelidar.com/press-release/velodyne-lidar-responds-to-david-halls-latest-false-statements/ |title=Velodyne Lidar Responds to David Hall's Latest False Statements (press release) |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=August 24, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://investors.velodynelidar.com/news-releases/news-release-details/velodyne-lidar-responds-latest-falsehoods-david-and-marta-thoma |title=Velodyne Lidar Responds to Latest Falsehoods from David and Marta Thoma Hall (press release) |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=October 27, 2021}}</ref> However, Hall has retained a large stake in the company and his wife has remained on its board of directors.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://investors.velodynelidar.com/corporate-governance/board-of-directors |title=Board of Directors |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=October 27, 2021 |access-date=February 9, 2022}}</ref>


In November 2021, Gopalan was replaced as CEO with Theodore L. "Ted" Tewksbury. Tewksbury holds B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in [[electrical engineering]] from [[Massachusetts Institute of Technology|MIT]] and had previously been the CEO of Eta Compute, a producer of low-power [[Artificial intelligence|AI]] vision systems.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://velodynelidar.com/press-release/dr-theodore-l-tewskbury-appointed-as-ceo/ |title=Velodyne Lidar Announces Appointment of Dr. Theodore L. Tewksbury as Chief Executive Officer |website=Velodyne Lidar |date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=February 18, 2022}}</ref>
In November 2021, Gopalan was replaced as CEO with Theodore Tewksbury, a former chief executive at a low-power [[Artificial intelligence|AI]] vision systems company, Eta Compute.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/04/theodore-tewksbury-to-take-over-as-velodyne-ceo/ |title=Theodore Tewksbury to take over as Velodyne CEO |website=[[TechCrunch]] |date=November 4, 2021 |last=Alamalhodaei |first=Aria}}</ref>


On February 7, 2022, the company's stock price suddenly increased by 50% when the internet retailer Amazon agreed to invest in the company with the purchase of 40 million of its shares.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/sensor-maker-velodyne-lidars-shares-surge-after-amazon-investment-11644281275 |title= Sensor Maker Velodyne Lidar's Shares Surge After Amazon Investment |newspaper=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |date=February 7, 2022 |access-date=February 8, 2022}}</ref>
On February 7, 2022, the company's stock price surged over 50 percent when the internet retailer [[Amazon (company)|Amazon]] agreed to invest in the company with the purchase of 40&nbsp;million of its shares.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/sensor-maker-velodyne-lidars-shares-surge-after-amazon-investment-11644281275 |title= Sensor Maker Velodyne Lidar's Shares Surge After Amazon Investment |newspaper=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |date=February 7, 2022 |access-date=February 8, 2022}}</ref>

In November 2022, [[Ouster (company)|Ouster]] and Velodyne agreed to merge in an all-share transaction in which the combined business will be split evenly between the two companies' existing shareholders.<ref>{{cite news |last1=White |first1=Joseph |last2=Malik |first2=Yuvraj |date=7 November 2022 |title=Lidar duo Ouster and Velodyne to merge in all-stock deal |url=https://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/lidar-firms-ouster-velodyne-merge-all-stock-deal-2022-11-07/ |publisher=Reuters}}</ref> The merger completed in February 2023, with the combined company retaining the Ouster name.<ref>{{cite web |last=Rosevear |first=John |date=13 February 2023 |title=Lidar makers Ouster and Velodyne complete their merger, creating a sector powerhouse |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/13/lidar-makers-ouster-velodyne-merger.html |website=CNBC}}</ref>

On February 10, 2023, [[Ouster (company)|Ouster]] and Velodyne successfully completed a merger of equals. The combined company will keep the name Ouster and continue to trade on New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “OUST.”<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230213005229/en/Ouster-and-Velodyne-Complete-Merger-of-Equals-to-Accelerate-Lidar-Adoption |title= Ouster and Velodyne Complete Merger of Equals to Accelerate Lidar Adoption |newspaper=[[Businesswire]] |date=February 13, 2023}}</ref>


==Technology==
==Technology==
Line 52: Line 57:
[[File:Velodyne AlphaPuck W Velarray VelaDome Family BlueLens.png|thumb|An Alpha Puck, Velarray, and VelaDome]]
[[File:Velodyne AlphaPuck W Velarray VelaDome Family BlueLens.png|thumb|An Alpha Puck, Velarray, and VelaDome]]


Applications for Velodyne Lidar's technology include autonomous vehicles, [[advanced driver assistance systems]], mapping, security, and [[unmanned aerial vehicles]]. Velodyne's sensors have a range of up to 300 meters and can be used for immediate object detection without additional sensor fusion.<ref name="LiDAR Giant1">{{cite news |last1=Brooke |first1=Lindsay |title=LiDAR Giant |url=http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/sae/ave_201810/index.php#/8 |access-date=October 6, 2018 |publisher=Autonomous Vehicle Engineering}}</ref><ref name="yan">{{Cite web|url=https://yzrobot.github.io/publications/yz17iros.pdf|title=Online Learning for Human Classification in 3D LiDAR-based Tracking|author=Zhi Yan, Tom Duckett, and Nicola Bellotto|access-date=4 April 2019}}</ref> When in use on a moving vehicle, a Velodyne sensor can create a precise image of the road ahead, including detailed street signs and foliage.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Cunningham|first1=Wayne|title=How lasers map the world for self-driving cars|url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/how-lasers-map-the-world-for-self-driving-cars/|access-date=26 June 2017|work=Roadshow|publisher=CNET|date=19 December 2016}}</ref>
Applications for Velodyne Lidar's technology include autonomous vehicles, [[advanced driver assistance systems]] (ADASs), mapping, security, and [[unmanned aerial vehicles]]. Velodyne's sensors have a range of up to 300 meters and can be used for immediate object detection without additional sensor fusion.<ref name="LiDAR Giant1">{{cite news |last1=Brooke |first1=Lindsay |title=LiDAR Giant |url=http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/sae/ave_201810/index.php#/8 |access-date=October 6, 2018 |website=Autonomous Vehicle Engineering}}</ref><ref name="yan">{{Cite web|url=https://yzrobot.github.io/publications/yz17iros.pdf|title=Online Learning for Human Classification in 3D LiDAR-based Tracking|first1=Zhi |last1=Yan |first2=Tom |last2=Duckett |first3=Nicola |last3=Bellotto |access-date=April 4, 2019}}</ref> When in use on a moving vehicle, a Velodyne sensor can create a precise image of the road ahead, including detailed street signs and foliage.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Cunningham|first1=Wayne|title=How lasers map the world for self-driving cars|url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/how-lasers-map-the-world-for-self-driving-cars/|access-date=June 26, 2017|website=[[CNET]] |date=December 19, 2016}}</ref>


In April 2017, Velodyne announced Velarray, a sensor that produces a directional image rather than the surround view provided by previous sensors. The range, resolution, and field of view facilitate object detection, allowing for longer braking distance and increased safety. Designed for seamless vehicle integration, this compact sensor generates a detailed directional image, day or night. It can be concealed within roof lines, in bumpers and behind windshields.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar to showcase a wide array of products at CES 2019 |url=https://safecarnews.com/velodyne-lidar-to-showcase-a-wide-array-of-products-at-ces-2019/ |access-date=4 January 2019 |publisher=Safe Car News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar to introduce new sensor technology at CES in Las Vegas |url=https://fp.brecorder.com/2019/01/20190107437807/ |access-date=7 January 2019 |publisher=Business Recorder}}</ref>
In April 2017, Velodyne introduced its Velarray, a compact fixed-laser [[Solid-state electronics|solid-state]] sensor that produces a directional image rather than the surround view provided by Velodyne's previous sensors.<ref name=VelarrayPR>{{cite press release |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170419005516/en/Velodyne-LiDAR-Announces-New-%E2%80%9CVelarray%E2%80%9D-LiDAR-Sensor |title=Velodyne LiDAR Announces New 'Velarray' LiDAR Sensor |author=Velodyne Lidar |via=[[Businesswire]] |date=April 19, 2017 |access-date=March 10, 2022}}</ref> The range, resolution, and directional field of view of the Velarray enable improved object detection and longer braking distances than the company's prior 360° products. The initial Velarray model was announced as having a 120° horizontal and 35° vertical field of view, and a range of {{convert|200|m|ft}}.<ref name=VelarrayPR/> The initial Velarray was designed for vehicle integration and could be concealed in roof lines and bumpers and behind windshields.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar to showcase a wide array of products at CES 2019 |url=https://safecarnews.com/velodyne-lidar-to-showcase-a-wide-array-of-products-at-ces-2019/ |url-status=dead |access-date=January 4, 2019 |website=Safe Car News |archive-date=February 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204232742/https://safecarnews.com/velodyne-lidar-to-showcase-a-wide-array-of-products-at-ces-2019/ }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar to introduce new sensor technology at CES in Las Vegas |url=https://fp.brecorder.com/2019/01/20190107437807/ |access-date=January 7, 2019 |website=Business Recorder}}</ref><!-- The Accur8vision product mentioned in this source is not yet discussed in the article. -->


Also in 2017, the company introduced the Alpha Puck (previously known as VLS-128) sensor with a range of up to 300 meters.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Popper |first1=Ben |title=Velodyne's latest LIDAR lets driverless cars handle high-speed situations |url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/11/29/16705674/velodyne-lidar-128-autonomous-vehicles-driverless-cars |access-date=29 November 2017 |publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Trego |first1=Linda |title=Renovo brings LiDAR sensor from Velodyne to AWare automated mobility ecosystem |url=http://digitaladmin.bnpmedia.com/publication/?i=525925&ver=html5&p=1#{%22page%22:24,%22issue_id%22:525925} |issue=September 2018 |publisher=Autonomous Vehicle Technology}}</ref> This sensor is made for autonomous driving and advanced vehicle safety at highway speeds.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar to showcase a wide array of products at CES 2019 |url=https://safecarnews.com/velodyne-lidar-to-showcase-a-wide-array-of-products-at-ces-2019/ |access-date=4 January 2019 |publisher=Safe Car News}}</ref>
Also in 2017, the company introduced the Alpha Puck (previously known as VLS-128) sensor with a range of up to 300 meters.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Popper |first1=Ben |title=Velodyne's latest LIDAR lets driverless cars handle high-speed situations |url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/11/29/16705674/velodyne-lidar-128-autonomous-vehicles-driverless-cars |access-date=November 29, 2017 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Trego |first1=Linda |title=Renovo brings LiDAR sensor from Velodyne to AWare automated mobility ecosystem |url=http://digitaladmin.bnpmedia.com/publication/?i=525925&ver=html5&p=1#{%22page%22:24,%22issue_id%22:525925} |issue=September 2018 |website=Autonomous Vehicle Technology}}</ref> This sensor is made for autonomous driving and advanced vehicle safety at highway speeds.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar to showcase a wide array of products at CES 2019 |url=https://safecarnews.com/velodyne-lidar-to-showcase-a-wide-array-of-products-at-ces-2019/ |access-date=January 4, 2019 |website=Safe Car News |archive-date=February 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204232742/https://safecarnews.com/velodyne-lidar-to-showcase-a-wide-array-of-products-at-ces-2019/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>


In 2019, Velodyne introduced a compact embeddable lidar that provides a 180° x 180° image for near-object avoidance. The company also introduced software that establishes the Velarray as an integral component for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).<ref>{{cite web |title=CES 2019: Velodyne Lidar technology for autonomy and driver assistance |url=https://www.novuslight.com/ces-2019-velodyne-lidar-technology-for-autonomy-and-driver-assistance_N8863.html |website=Novus Light Technologies Today |access-date=9 January 2019}}</ref> In November 2019, Velodyne introduced a lidar sensor for improving vehicle safety and enabling precise mapping.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Staff writer |title=Velodyne Lidar introduces Alpha Prime lidar sensor |url=https://www.greencarcongress.com/2019/11/20191116-velodyne.html |access-date=16 November 2019 |work=Green Car Congress}}</ref>
In 2019, Velodyne introduced the VelaDome, a compact embeddable lidar that provides a 180°&nbsp;x&nbsp;180° field of view and supports near-object detection.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.i-micronews.com/velodyne-lidar-to-present-breakthrough-technology-for-autonomy-and-driver-assistance-at-consumer-electronics-show/ |title=Velodyne LiDAR to present breakthrough technology for autonomy and driver assistance at consumer electronics show |website=i-Micronews |date=January 6, 2019 |author=<!-- No byline -->}}<!-- Promotional source, probably basically written by the company marketing department, but not being used for a controversial purpose - primarily just to establish the date of release.--></ref> The company also introduced Vella software for integration of the Velarray into ADAS applications, supporting features such as [[lane keeping assist]], [[automatic emergency braking]], and [[adaptive cruise control]].<ref>{{cite web |title=CES 2019: Velodyne Lidar technology for autonomy and driver assistance |url=https://www.novuslight.com/ces-2019-velodyne-lidar-technology-for-autonomy-and-driver-assistance_N8863.html |website=Novus Light Technologies Today |access-date=January 9, 2019}}</ref> In November 2019, Velodyne introduced a lidar sensor for improving vehicle safety and enabling precise mapping.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!-- Staff, no byline --> |title=Velodyne Lidar introduces Alpha Prime lidar sensor |url=https://www.greencarcongress.com/2019/11/20191116-velodyne.html |access-date=November 16, 2019 |work=Green Car Congress}}</ref>


In 2020, Velodyne introduced the company’s smallest sensor,<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar introduces its smallest lidar sensor at CES: the Velabit |url=https://www.greencarcongress.com/2020/01/20200108-lidar.html |access-date=8 January 2020 |work=Green Car Congress}}</ref> Velarray H800, a solid state sensor built using its proprietary micro-lidar array architecture.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Butcher |first1=Lawrence |title=Velodyne Lidar introduces solid-state sensor for automotive applications |url=https://www.autonomousvehicleinternational.com/news/adas/velodyne-lidar-introduces-solid-state-sensor-for-automotive-applications.html |work=Autonomous Vehicle International |date=17 November 2020}}</ref> and Velarray M1600, a solid state sensor for mobile robots and last-mile delivery systems.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar Introduces Solid State Sensor for Autonomous Mobile Robotics and Last-Mile Delivery |url=https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/velodyne-lidar-introduces-solid-state-sensor-for-autonomous-mobile-robotics-and-last |access-date=December 10, 2020 |work=NASDAQ}}</ref>
In 2020, Velodyne introduced the Velabit, the company's smallest sensor,<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar introduces its smallest lidar sensor at CES: the Velabit |url=https://www.greencarcongress.com/2020/01/20200108-lidar.html |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=Green Car Congress}}</ref> the Velarray H800, a solid-state sensor built using a micro-lidar array architecture.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Butcher |first1=Lawrence |title=Velodyne Lidar introduces solid-state sensor for automotive applications |url=https://www.autonomousvehicleinternational.com/news/adas/velodyne-lidar-introduces-solid-state-sensor-for-automotive-applications.html |work=Autonomous Vehicle International |date=November 17, 2020}}</ref> and the Velarray M1600, a solid state sensor for mobile robots and [[Last mile (transportation)|last-mile delivery systems]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar Introduces Solid State Sensor for Autonomous Mobile Robotics and Last-Mile Delivery |url=https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/velodyne-lidar-introduces-solid-state-sensor-for-autonomous-mobile-robotics-and-last |access-date=December 10, 2020 |work=NASDAQ}}</ref>


==Partners and customers==
==Partners and customers==
[[File:LBP 5030.jpg|thumb|Velodyne Lidar Alpha Puck on a Voyage vehicle]]
[[File:LBP 5030.jpg|thumb|Velodyne Lidar Alpha Puck on a Voyage vehicle]]


In 2010, [[Google]] (now [[Alphabet Inc.|Alphabet]]) began testing self-driving cars on the streets in the San Francisco Bay Area using Velodyne's Lidar technology.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/automaton/robotics/artificial-intelligence/how-google-self-driving-car-works|title=How Google's Self-Driving Car Works|last=Guizzo|first=Erico|date=2011-10-18|website=spectrum.ieee.org|access-date=2016-04-29}}</ref> Alphabet's first self-driving car prototype (built on [[Toyota Prius|Toyota's Prius]] model) used Velodyne's HDL-64E lidar sensor.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=https://arstechnica.com/cars/2017/01/googles-waymo-invests-in-lidar-technology-cuts-costs-by-90-percent/|title=Google's Waymo invests in LIDAR technology, cuts costs by 90 percent|newspaper=Ars Technica|access-date=2017-01-12}}</ref> Since then, Alphabet has stopped using Velodyne sensors in its vehicles.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Amadeo|first1=Ron|title=Google's Waymo invests in LIDAR technology, cuts costs by 90 percent|url=https://arstechnica.com/cars/2017/01/googles-waymo-invests-in-lidar-technology-cuts-costs-by-90-percent/|access-date=26 June 2017|work=Ars Technica|issue=9 January 2017}}</ref>
In 2010, [[Google]] (now [[Alphabet Inc.|Alphabet]]) began testing self-driving cars on the streets in the San Francisco Bay Area using Velodyne's Lidar technology.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/how-google-self-driving-car-works|title=How Google's Self-Driving Car Works|last=Guizzo|first=Erico|date=October 18, 2011 |website=[[IEEE]]|access-date=April 29, 2016}}</ref> Alphabet's first self-driving car prototype (built on [[Toyota Prius|Toyota's Prius]] model) used Velodyne's HDL-64E lidar sensor.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=https://arstechnica.com/cars/2017/01/googles-waymo-invests-in-lidar-technology-cuts-costs-by-90-percent/|title=Google's Waymo invests in LIDAR technology, cuts costs by 90 percent|newspaper=Ars Technica|access-date=January 12, 2017}}</ref> Since then, Alphabet has stopped using Velodyne sensors in its vehicles.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Amadeo|first1=Ron|title=Google's Waymo invests in LIDAR technology, cuts costs by 90 percent|url=https://arstechnica.com/cars/2017/01/googles-waymo-invests-in-lidar-technology-cuts-costs-by-90-percent/|access-date=June 26, 2017|work=[[Ars Technica]] |date=January 9, 2017}}</ref>


In 2012, Velodyne Lidar signed a contract with [[Caterpillar Inc.|Caterpillar]] for a supply of lidar sensors to be used for off-road vehicles.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.virtual-strategy.com/2012/08/07/velodynes-lidar-division-announces-agreement-caterpillar-laser-imaging-technology|title=Velodyne's LiDAR Division Announces Agreement With Caterpillar for Laser Imaging Technology {{!}} Virtual-Strategy Magazine|website=www.virtual-strategy.com|access-date=2016-04-29}}</ref> These sensors help Caterpillar map quarries, farms and work sites during construction.<ref name="Morra">{{cite news|last1=Morra|first1=James|title=Velodyne Funding Highlights Lidar's Role in Driverless Cars|url=http://electronicdesign.com/iot/velodyne-funding-highlights-lidar-s-role-driverless-cars|access-date=29 March 2017|work=Electronic Design|date=22 August 2016}}</ref>
In 2012, Velodyne Lidar signed a contract with [[Caterpillar Inc.|Caterpillar]] for a supply of lidar sensors to be used for off-road vehicles. These sensors help Caterpillar map quarries, farms and work sites during construction.<ref name="Morra">{{cite news|last1=Morra|first1=James|title=Velodyne Funding Highlights Lidar's Role in Driverless Cars|url=http://electronicdesign.com/iot/velodyne-funding-highlights-lidar-s-role-driverless-cars|access-date=March 29, 2017|work=Electronic Design|date=August 22, 2016}}</ref>


In 2012 through 2015, Velodyne's spinning HDL-32E sensors have been seen on mobile mapping vehicles by [[Nokia Here]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://photos.mercurynews.com/2015/07/28/photos-here-a-nokia-company-has-global-fleet-of-cars-for-3d-street-mapping/#1|title = Photo galleries and videos from the Mercury News}}</ref> [[Microsoft Bing]] Maps,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sparpointgroup.com/news/vol12no43-velodyne-lidar-to-provide-hdl32e-for-bing-maps|title=Velodyne LiDAR to Provide HDL-32E Sensor for Bing Maps Imagery {{!}} SPAR 3D|date=2014-10-28|website=SPAR 3D|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-29}}</ref> [[Tencent]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.techinasia.com/tencent-maps-covers-china-street-view/|title=Tech in Asia - Connecting Asia's startup ecosystem|website=www.techinasia.com|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-29}}</ref> Baidu, and [[TomTom]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/7/27/9048027/tomtom-bosch-autonomous-vehicle-mapping|title=TomTom is now making maps for autonomous vehicles|last=Kastrenakes|first=Jacob|date=2015-07-27|website=The Verge|access-date=2016-04-29}}</ref> Leading mapping providers like [[Topcon]]<ref>https://www.topconpositioning.com/news-events/news/product-news/topcon-announces-next-generation-3-d-mobile-mapping-system {{Dead link|date=February 2022}}</ref> and [[Leica Geosystems]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sparpointgroup.com/news/vol13no22-pegasus-backpack-leicas-wearable-scanner|title=Pegasus:Backpack, Leica's Wearable Scanner {{!}} SPAR 3D|date=2015-06-03|website=SPAR 3D|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-29}}</ref> also use Velodyne's scanners for their turnkey mobile solutions.{{buzzword inline|date=November 2020}}
From 2012 to 2015, Velodyne's spinning HDL-32E sensors were used on mobile mapping vehicles by [[Nokia Here]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://photos.mercurynews.com/2015/07/28/photos-here-a-nokia-company-has-global-fleet-of-cars-for-3d-street-mapping/#1|title = Photo galleries and videos from the Mercury News| date=May 18, 2024 }}</ref> [[Microsoft Bing]] Maps,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sparpointgroup.com/news/vol12no43-velodyne-lidar-to-provide-hdl32e-for-bing-maps|title=Velodyne LiDAR to Provide HDL-32E Sensor for Bing Maps Imagery|date=October 28, 2014|website=SPAR 3D|language=en-US|access-date=April 29, 2016|archive-date=November 14, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151114120618/http://www.sparpointgroup.com/news/vol12no43-velodyne-lidar-to-provide-hdl32e-for-bing-maps|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Tencent]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.techinasia.com/tencent-maps-covers-china-street-view/|title=Tech in Asia - Connecting Asia's startup ecosystem|website=www.techinasia.com|language=en-US|access-date=April 29, 2016}}</ref> Baidu, and [[TomTom]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/7/27/9048027/tomtom-bosch-autonomous-vehicle-mapping|title=TomTom is now making maps for autonomous vehicles|last=Kastrenakes|first=Jacob|date=July 27, 2015 |website=[[The Verge]] |access-date=April 29, 2016}}</ref> Mapping providers including [[Topcon]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.topconpositioning.com/news-events/news/product-news/topcon-announces-next-generation-3-d-mobile-mapping-system |title=Topcon announces next generation 3-D mobile mapping system {{!}} Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. |website=www.topconpositioning.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141010065123/http://www.topconpositioning.com/news-events/news/product-news/topcon-announces-next-generation-3-d-mobile-mapping-system |archive-date=2014-10-10}}</ref> and [[Leica Geosystems]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sparpointgroup.com/news/vol13no22-pegasus-backpack-leicas-wearable-scanner|title=Pegasus:Backpack, Leica's Wearable Scanner|date=June 3, 2015|website=SPAR 3D|language=en-US|access-date=April 29, 2016|archive-date=November 6, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106055320/http://www.sparpointgroup.com/news/vol13no22-pegasus-backpack-leicas-wearable-scanner|url-status=dead}}</ref> use Velodyne's scanners for their mobile services.


In 2016, [[Ford Motor Company]] announced that it will expand its fleet of self-driving R&D vehicles and use Velodyne Lidar's Ultra Puck sensors.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2016/01/05/ford-tripling-autonomous-vehicle-development-fleet--accelerating.html|title=Ford Tripling Autonomous Vehicle Development Fleet, Accelerating On-Road Testing of Sensors and Software {{!}} Ford Media Center|website=media.ford.com|access-date=2016-04-29}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.economist.com/news/science-and-technology/21712103-new-chips-will-cut-cost-laser-scanning-breakthrough-miniaturising|title=A breakthrough in miniaturising lidars for autonomous driving|newspaper=The Economist|date=24 December 2016|access-date=2017-01-12}}</ref> As of December 31, 2020, [[Ford Motor Company]] liquidated its 7.6% stake in Velodyne Lidar.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-velodyne-lidar-stake/ford-dissolves-its-7-6-stake-in-velodyne-lidar-idUSKBN2AF1B7?il=0|title=Ford dissolves its 7.6% stake in Velodyne Lidar|website=Reuters|date=15 February 2021|access-date=2021-02-15}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000037996/000110465921021932/tm213752d1_sc13ga.htm |title=UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION SCHEDULE 13G Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. 1) |date=12 February 2021 |access-date=14 April 2021 |publisher=United States Securities and Exchange Commission}}</ref>
In 2016, [[Ford Motor Company]] announced that it will expand its fleet of self-driving R&D vehicles and use Velodyne Lidar's Ultra Puck sensors.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2016/01/05/ford-tripling-autonomous-vehicle-development-fleet--accelerating.html|title=Ford Tripling Autonomous Vehicle Development Fleet, Accelerating On-Road Testing of Sensors and Software |website= Ford Media Center |access-date=April 29, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.economist.com/news/science-and-technology/21712103-new-chips-will-cut-cost-laser-scanning-breakthrough-miniaturising|title=A breakthrough in miniaturising lidars for autonomous driving|newspaper=[[The Economist]] |date=December 24, 2016|access-date=January 12, 2017}}</ref> As of December 31, 2020, Ford Motor Company liquidated its 7.6% stake in Velodyne Lidar.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-velodyne-lidar-stake/ford-dissolves-its-7-6-stake-in-velodyne-lidar-idUSKBN2AF1B7?il=0|title=Ford dissolves its 7.6% stake in Velodyne Lidar|website=[[Reuters]] |date=February 15, 2021|access-date=February 15, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000037996/000110465921021932/tm213752d1_sc13ga.htm |title=Schedule 13G Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. 1) – Velodyne Lidar, Inc. |date=February 12, 2021 |access-date=April 14, 2021 |via=[[United States Securities and Exchange Commission]] |author=Velodyne Lidar, Inc.}}</ref>


In 2017, Velodyne partnered with Renovo as Reference Lidar provider for AWare automated mobility operating system<ref>{{cite news |title=Renovo selects Velodyne as Reference LiDAR provider for AWare automated mobility operating system |url=https://medium.com/renovo-auto-blog/renovo-selects-velodyne-as-reference-lidar-provider-for-aware-automated-mobility-operating-system-f8001b91c6c |access-date=14 November 2017 |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]]}}</ref> and with Mercedes-Benz for a Perception System Contract.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne LiDAR awarded Perception System Contract from Mercedes-Benz |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/business-wire/velodyne-lidar-awarded-perception-system-contract-from-mercedesbenz/article9856916.ece |access-date=13 September 2017 |publisher=The Hindu Business Line}}</ref>
In 2017, Velodyne partnered with [[Renovo.auto|Renovo]] as Reference Lidar provider for the [[AWare]] automated mobility operating system<ref>{{cite news |title=Renovo selects Velodyne as Reference LiDAR provider for AWare automated mobility operating system |url=https://medium.com/renovo-auto-blog/renovo-selects-velodyne-as-reference-lidar-provider-for-aware-automated-mobility-operating-system-f8001b91c6c |access-date=November 14, 2017 |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]]}}</ref>{{better source needed |date=March 2022 |reason=Medium is not a reliable source. See [[WP:MEDIUM]]. }} and with [[Mercedes-Benz]] for a perception system contract.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne LiDAR awarded Perception System Contract from Mercedes-Benz |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/business-wire/velodyne-lidar-awarded-perception-system-contract-from-mercedesbenz/article9856916.ece |access-date=September 13, 2017 |website=The Hindu Business Line}}</ref>


In 2018, the company partnered with [[Embark (company)|Embark]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ohnsman |first1=Alan |title=Robot Truck Upstart Embark Hauls In $30 Million To Take On Waymo And Uber |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2018/07/19/robot-truck-upstart-embark-hauls-in-30-million-to-take-on-waymo-uber/#62b4d9074aee |access-date=19 July 2018 |work=[[Forbes]]}}</ref> [[Geodetics]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Newsdesk team, Geospatial Media |title=San Diego researchers track changes in San Andreas fault with Geodetics mobile mapping and Velodyne LiDAR Technology |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/san-diego-researchers-track-changes-in-san-andreas-fault/ |access-date=21 June 2018 |publisher=Geospatial World}}</ref> [[Voyage (company)|Voyage]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shieh |first1=Joseph |title=Voyage Partners With Velodyne for Self-Driving Sensors |url=http://svdaily.com/voyage-partners-with-velodyne-for-self-driving-sensors/ |access-date=19 June 2018 |publisher=Silicon Valley Daily}}</ref> Exyn Technologies,{{citation needed|date=August 2021}} Yellowscan,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Cozzens |first1=Tracy |title=Latest YellowScan lidar system designed for UAV surveys |url=https://www.gpsworld.com/latest-yellowscan-lidar-system-designed-for-uav-surveys/; |access-date=3 April 2018 |publisher=GPS World}}</ref> Phoenix LiDAR,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dirjish |first1=Mathew |title=Wild Idea Transforms Aerial Mapping Industry |url=https://www.sensorsmag.com/components/wild-idea-transforms-aerial-mapping-industry |access-date=1 February 2018 |publisher=Sensors Magazine}}</ref> NAVYA,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dennehy |first1=Kevin |title=LiDAR Presence Growing at CES |url=http://insideunmannedsystems.com/lidar-presence-growing-ces/; |access-date=23 January 2018 |publisher=Inside Unmanned Systems}}</ref> ThorDrive<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lekach |first1=Sasha |title=Another self-driving car service arrives to deliver hardware store supplies |url=https://mashable.com/article/self-driving-delivery-van-hardware-thordrive/#J0VIcY8rBsqK |access-date=30 November 2018 |publisher=Mashable}}</ref> and [[Postmates]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Constine |first1=Josh |title=Postmates unveils Serve, a friendlier autonomous delivery robot |url=https://techcrunch.com/2018/12/13/postmates-robot-serve/ |publisher=[[Techcrunch]]}}</ref> Velodyne Lidar also partnered with [[Nikon]] as a new strategic investor with an investment of $25M.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rees |first1=Mike |title=Velodyne Lidar Partners with Nikon for Autonomous Vision |url=https://www.unmannedsystemstechnology.com/2018/12/velodyne-lidar-partners-with-nikon-for-autonomous-vision/ |access-date=31 December 2018 |publisher=Unmanned Systems Technology}}</ref>
In 2018, the company partnered with [[Embark (company)|Embark]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ohnsman |first1=Alan |title=Robot Truck Upstart Embark Hauls In $30 Million To Take On Waymo And Uber |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2018/07/19/robot-truck-upstart-embark-hauls-in-30-million-to-take-on-waymo-uber/#62b4d9074aee |access-date=July 19, 2018 |work=[[Forbes]]}}</ref> [[Geodetics]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Newsdesk team, Geospatial Media |title=San Diego researchers track changes in San Andreas fault with Geodetics mobile mapping and Velodyne LiDAR Technology |url=https://www.geospatialworld.net/news/san-diego-researchers-track-changes-in-san-andreas-fault/ |access-date=June 21, 2018 |website=Geospatial World}}</ref> [[Voyage (company)|Voyage]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shieh |first1=Joseph |title=Voyage Partners With Velodyne for Self-Driving Sensors |url=http://svdaily.com/voyage-partners-with-velodyne-for-self-driving-sensors/ |access-date=19 June 2018 |website=Silicon Valley Daily |archive-date=February 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204231608/http://svdaily.com/voyage-partners-with-velodyne-for-self-driving-sensors/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Exyn Technologies,<ref>{{cite news |title=Exyn Technologies and Velodyne Lidar Partner to Develop Fully Autonomous Indoor UAS |url=https://www.auvsi.org/industry-news/exyn-technologies-and-velodyne-lidar-partner-develop-fully-autonomous-indoor-uas |website=AUVSI News |date=April 19, 2018}}</ref> Yellowscan,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Cozzens |first1=Tracy |title=Latest YellowScan lidar system designed for UAV surveys |url=https://www.gpsworld.com/latest-yellowscan-lidar-system-designed-for-uav-surveys/; |access-date=April 3, 2018 |website=GPS World}}</ref> Phoenix Lidar,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dirjish |first1=Mathew |title=Wild Idea Transforms Aerial Mapping Industry |url=https://www.sensorsmag.com/components/wild-idea-transforms-aerial-mapping-industry |access-date=February 1, 2018 |website=Sensors Magazine}}</ref> NAVYA,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dennehy |first1=Kevin |title=LiDAR Presence Growing at CES |url=http://insideunmannedsystems.com/lidar-presence-growing-ces/; |access-date=January 23, 2018 |website=Inside Unmanned Systems}}</ref> ThorDrive<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lekach |first1=Sasha |title=Another self-driving car service arrives to deliver hardware store supplies |url=https://mashable.com/article/self-driving-delivery-van-hardware-thordrive/#J0VIcY8rBsqK |access-date=November 30, 2018 |website=[[Mashable]]}}</ref> and [[Postmates]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Constine |first1=Josh |title=Postmates unveils Serve, a friendlier autonomous delivery robot |url=https://techcrunch.com/2018/12/13/postmates-robot-serve/ |website=[[Techcrunch]]}}</ref> Velodyne Lidar also partnered with [[Nikon]], receiving an investment of $25M.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rees |first1=Mike |title=Velodyne Lidar Partners with Nikon for Autonomous Vision |url=https://www.unmannedsystemstechnology.com/2018/12/velodyne-lidar-partners-with-nikon-for-autonomous-vision/ |access-date=31 December 2018 |website=Unmanned Systems Technology}}</ref>


In 2019, Velodyne partnered with Clearpath Robotics,<ref>{{cite news |last1=RBR Staff |title=Clearpath Teams With Velodyne to Add Lidar to its Robot Platform |url=https://www.roboticsbusinessreview.com/robo-dev/clearpath-teams-with-velodyne-lidar-robot-platform/ |work=Robotics Business Review |date=27 March 2019}}</ref> Holomatic,<ref>{{cite news |title=China smart valet parking solution uses Velodyne lidar |url=https://www.greencarcongress.com/2019/02/20190201-velodyne.html |work=Green Car Congress |date=1 February 2019}}</ref> Kaarta<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chin |first1=Spencer |title=Ground mapping solution uses Velodyne Lidar's sensors |url=https://www.fierceelectronics.com/sensors/ground-mapping-solution-uses-velodyne-lidar-s-sensors |work=FierceElectronics |date=July 17, 2019 |language=en}}</ref> and Hyundai Mobis.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Slovick |first1=Murray |title=Velodyne and Hyundai Mobis to develop LiDAR-based ADAS system |url=https://www.electronicdesign.com/markets/automotive/article/21808796/velodyne-and-hyundai-mobis-to-develop-lidarbased-adas-system |work=www.electronicdesign.com |date=November 14, 2019}}</ref>
In 2019, Velodyne partnered with Clearpath Robotics,<ref>{{cite news |author=<!-- Staff, no byline --> |title=Clearpath Teams With Velodyne to Add Lidar to its Robot Platform |url=https://www.roboticsbusinessreview.com/robo-dev/clearpath-teams-with-velodyne-lidar-robot-platform/ |work=Robotics Business Review |date=March 27, 2019}}</ref> Holomatic,<ref>{{cite news |title=China smart valet parking solution uses Velodyne lidar |url=https://www.greencarcongress.com/2019/02/20190201-velodyne.html |work=Green Car Congress |date=February 1, 2019}}</ref> Kaarta<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chin |first1=Spencer |title=Ground mapping solution uses Velodyne Lidar's sensors |url=https://www.fierceelectronics.com/sensors/ground-mapping-solution-uses-velodyne-lidar-s-sensors |work=FierceElectronics |date=July 17, 2019 |language=en}}</ref> and Hyundai Mobis.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Slovick |first1=Murray |title=Velodyne and Hyundai Mobis to develop LiDAR-based ADAS system |url=https://www.electronicdesign.com/markets/automotive/article/21808796/velodyne-and-hyundai-mobis-to-develop-lidarbased-adas-system |work=www.electronicdesign.com |date=November 14, 2019}}</ref>


In 2020, the company announced agreements with TLD,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Happich |first1=Julien |title=Velodyne Lidar strikes deal with provider of autonomous baggage tractors |url=https://www.eenewseurope.com/news/velodyne-lidar-strikes-deal-provider-autonomous-baggage-tractors |work=eeNews Europe |date=24 April 2020 |language=en}}</ref> EasyMile,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Reporter |title=EasyMile and Velodyne Lidar Announce Three-Year Agreement |url=https://insideunmannedsystems.com/easymile-and-velodyne-lidar-announce-three-year-agreement/ |work=Inside Unmanned Systems |date=1 May 2020}}</ref> Emesent,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Press |title=Velodyne Lidar Sensors Power Emesent's Hovermap |url=https://www.suasnews.com/2020/07/velodyne-lidar-sensors-power-emesents-hovermap/ |work=sUAS News |date=31 July 2020}}</ref> Baidu<ref>{{cite news |last1=Staff |title=Velodyne Lidar Announces 3-Year Sales Agreement With Baidu |url=https://www.aftermarketnews.com/velodyne-lidar-announces-3-year-sales-agreement-with-baidu/ |work=aftermarketNews |date=13 October 2020}}</ref> and Local Motors.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar announces multi-year sales agreement with Local Motors |url=https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/velodyne-lidar-announces-multi-year-sales-agreement-with-local-motors/ |work=Automotive World |date=19 November 2020}}</ref>
In 2020, the company announced agreements with TLD,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Happich |first1=Julien |title=Velodyne Lidar strikes deal with provider of autonomous baggage tractors |url=https://www.eenewseurope.com/news/velodyne-lidar-strikes-deal-provider-autonomous-baggage-tractors |work=eeNews Europe |date=April 24, 2020 |language=en}}</ref> EasyMile,<ref>{{cite news |author=<!-- No byline --> |title=EasyMile and Velodyne Lidar Announce Three-Year Agreement |url=https://insideunmannedsystems.com/easymile-and-velodyne-lidar-announce-three-year-agreement/ |work=Inside Unmanned Systems |date=May 1, 2020}}</ref> Emesent,<ref>{{cite news |author=<!-- No byline --> |title=Velodyne Lidar Sensors Power Emesent's Hovermap |url=https://www.suasnews.com/2020/07/velodyne-lidar-sensors-power-emesents-hovermap/ |work=sUAS News |date=31 July 2020}}</ref> Baidu<ref>{{cite news |author=<!-- Staff, no byline --> |title=Velodyne Lidar Announces 3-Year Sales Agreement With Baidu |url=https://www.aftermarketnews.com/velodyne-lidar-announces-3-year-sales-agreement-with-baidu/ |work=aftermarketNews |date=October 13, 2020}}</ref> and Local Motors.<ref>{{cite news |title=Velodyne Lidar announces multi-year sales agreement with Local Motors |url=https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/velodyne-lidar-announces-multi-year-sales-agreement-with-local-motors/ |work=Automotive World |date=November 19, 2020}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{Official|http://www.velodynelidar.com}}
{{Finance links historical
| name = Velodyne Lidar, Inc.
| symbol = VLDR
| sec_cik = 1745317
| yahoo = VLDR
| google = VLDR
}}


[[Category:Lidar]]
[[Category:Lidar]]
[[Category:Self-driving cars]]
[[Category:Self-driving car companies]]
[[Category:American companies established in 2016]]
[[Category:American companies established in 2016]]
[[Category:Companies listed on the Nasdaq]]
[[Category:Companies formerly listed on the Nasdaq]]
[[Category:Companies based in San Jose, California]]
[[Category:Companies based in San Jose, California]]
[[Category:Corporate spin-offs]]
[[Category:2016 establishments in California]]
[[Category:2016 establishments in California]]
[[Category:Special-purpose acquisition companies]]
[[Category:2023 mergers and acquisitions]]

Latest revision as of 20:06, 31 August 2024

Velodyne Lidar
Company typePublic
Nasdaq: VLDR
IndustrieLidar
Gegründet2016; 8 years ago (2016) as Velodyne Acoustics spin-off
GründerDavid Hall[1]
DefunctFebruary 2023
FateMerged with Ouster
HauptsitzSan Jose, California, United States
Key people
Ted Tewksbury (CEO)[1]
ProdukteLidar
RevenueDecrease $61.92 million (2021)[2]
Number of employees
407[2] (Dec 2021)
Websitevelodynelidar.com

Velodyne Lidar is a Silicon Valley–based lidar technology company, headquartered in San Jose, California. It was spun off from Velodyne Acoustics in 2016.[3] As of July 2020, the company has had about 300 customers.[4] Velodyne Lidar ships sensors to mobility industry customers for testing and commercial use in autonomous vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems, mapping, robotics, infrastructure and smart city applications.[5][6][7][8] In February 2023, the company merged with Ouster.

History

[edit]

David Hall founded Velodyne in 1983 as an audio company specializing in subwoofer technology.[9][10]

Velodyne's experience with laser distance measurement started in 2005, when David Hall and his brother Bruce (then president of Velodyne) entered a vehicle in a driverless car race called DARPA Grand Challenge sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).[11] The experience led them to realize shortcomings both in camera-centric approaches and in existing lidar technology, which only scanned a single, fixed line of sight.[12] Velodyne developed new sensors for the 2007 race. The brothers sold their perception detection system as a steering input to five of the six teams that finished the 2007 race. The system rotated 64 lasers and measured the time of flight to calculate distances to surrounding objects. This created a 360-degree 3D map of the environment.[13] The new system produced one million data points per second, while earlier systems produced 5,000 data points per second.[12]

A Velodyne HDL-64E, an HDL-32E, a Puck, and an Ultra Puck

Velodyne donated one of its early prototype sensors to the Robotics Collection at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History in 2011.[14][15]

In 2016, Velodyne's Lidar department was spun off from Velodyne Acoustics as Velodyne Lidar, Inc.[16] On August 16, 2016, Velodyne announced a $150 million investment from Ford and Baidu.[17]

In 2017, Velodyne opened a factory in San Jose, California.[18] The company also has an R&D center in Alameda, California.[19] The same year, Velodyne also provided their sensors as a sponsor of the SAE GM AutoDrive Challenge, a three-year competition in which eight university teams develop an automated vehicle.[20]

Since 2018, Velodyne has partnered with Mothers Against Drunk Driving in a campaign to promote the use of autonomous vehicles for improving roadway safety and preventing impaired driving deaths.[21][22] Since October 2018, Velodyne has organized an annual World Safety Summit on Autonomous Technology.[23][24] In the same year, the company also signed agreements to collaborate with Nikon and Veoneer for manufacturing and mass production.[25][26]

In July 2019, the company acquired mapping and localization software as well as intellectual property assets from Mapper.ai.[27]

In January 2020, Hall stepped down as CEO and was replaced by Anand Gopalan, who was previously CTO, although Hall initially remained chairman of the company's board of directors and continued to be the company's largest shareholder.[28] On July 2, 2020, Velodyne Lidar merged with Graf Industrial Corp. to become a publicly-traded company. In September 2020, the company began trading stocks and warrants on NASDAQ under the ticker symbols VLDR and VLDRW.[29]

In January 2021, Hall was censured by the company and removed as chairman of the board, and Hall's wife's employment at the company was terminated, as the relationship between the company and Hall together with Hall's wife Marta Thoma Hall became highly antagonistic, with the Halls and the company accusing each other of serious misconduct.[30][31][32][33] However, Hall has retained a large stake in the company and his wife has remained on its board of directors.[34]

In November 2021, Gopalan was replaced as CEO with Theodore Tewksbury, a former chief executive at a low-power AI vision systems company, Eta Compute.[35]

On February 7, 2022, the company's stock price surged over 50 percent when the internet retailer Amazon agreed to invest in the company with the purchase of 40 million of its shares.[36]

In November 2022, Ouster and Velodyne agreed to merge in an all-share transaction in which the combined business will be split evenly between the two companies' existing shareholders.[37] The merger completed in February 2023, with the combined company retaining the Ouster name.[38]

On February 10, 2023, Ouster and Velodyne successfully completed a merger of equals. The combined company will keep the name Ouster and continue to trade on New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “OUST.”[39]

Technologie

[edit]
An Alpha Puck, Velarray, and VelaDome

Applications for Velodyne Lidar's technology include autonomous vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems (ADASs), mapping, security, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Velodyne's sensors have a range of up to 300 meters and can be used for immediate object detection without additional sensor fusion.[5][40] When in use on a moving vehicle, a Velodyne sensor can create a precise image of the road ahead, including detailed street signs and foliage.[41]

In April 2017, Velodyne introduced its Velarray, a compact fixed-laser solid-state sensor that produces a directional image rather than the surround view provided by Velodyne's previous sensors.[42] The range, resolution, and directional field of view of the Velarray enable improved object detection and longer braking distances than the company's prior 360° products. The initial Velarray model was announced as having a 120° horizontal and 35° vertical field of view, and a range of 200 metres (660 ft).[42] The initial Velarray was designed for vehicle integration and could be concealed in roof lines and bumpers and behind windshields.[43][44]

Also in 2017, the company introduced the Alpha Puck (previously known as VLS-128) sensor with a range of up to 300 meters.[45][46] This sensor is made for autonomous driving and advanced vehicle safety at highway speeds.[47]

In 2019, Velodyne introduced the VelaDome, a compact embeddable lidar that provides a 180° x 180° field of view and supports near-object detection.[48] The company also introduced Vella software for integration of the Velarray into ADAS applications, supporting features such as lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.[49] In November 2019, Velodyne introduced a lidar sensor for improving vehicle safety and enabling precise mapping.[50]

In 2020, Velodyne introduced the Velabit, the company's smallest sensor,[51] the Velarray H800, a solid-state sensor built using a micro-lidar array architecture.[52] and the Velarray M1600, a solid state sensor for mobile robots and last-mile delivery systems.[53]

Partners and customers

[edit]
Velodyne Lidar Alpha Puck on a Voyage vehicle

In 2010, Google (now Alphabet) began testing self-driving cars on the streets in the San Francisco Bay Area using Velodyne's Lidar technology.[54] Alphabet's first self-driving car prototype (built on Toyota's Prius model) used Velodyne's HDL-64E lidar sensor.[55] Since then, Alphabet has stopped using Velodyne sensors in its vehicles.[56]

In 2012, Velodyne Lidar signed a contract with Caterpillar for a supply of lidar sensors to be used for off-road vehicles. These sensors help Caterpillar map quarries, farms and work sites during construction.[57]

From 2012 to 2015, Velodyne's spinning HDL-32E sensors were used on mobile mapping vehicles by Nokia Here,[58] Microsoft Bing Maps,[59] Tencent,[60] Baidu, and TomTom.[61] Mapping providers including Topcon[62] and Leica Geosystems[63] use Velodyne's scanners for their mobile services.

In 2016, Ford Motor Company announced that it will expand its fleet of self-driving R&D vehicles and use Velodyne Lidar's Ultra Puck sensors.[55][64][65] As of December 31, 2020, Ford Motor Company liquidated its 7.6% stake in Velodyne Lidar.[66][67]

In 2017, Velodyne partnered with Renovo as Reference Lidar provider for the AWare automated mobility operating system[68][better source needed] and with Mercedes-Benz for a perception system contract.[69]

In 2018, the company partnered with Embark,[70] Geodetics,[71] Voyage,[72] Exyn Technologies,[73] Yellowscan,[74] Phoenix Lidar,[75] NAVYA,[76] ThorDrive[77] and Postmates.[78] Velodyne Lidar also partnered with Nikon, receiving an investment of $25M.[79]

In 2019, Velodyne partnered with Clearpath Robotics,[80] Holomatic,[81] Kaarta[82] and Hyundai Mobis.[83]

In 2020, the company announced agreements with TLD,[84] EasyMile,[85] Emesent,[86] Baidu[87] and Local Motors.[88]

References

[edit]
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[edit]
  • Official website
    • Historical business data for Velodyne Lidar, Inc.:
    • SEC filings
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