Chinese lidar manufacturer Hesai Technology has introduced a new generation of lidar sensor capable of detecting color, marking a significant advancement in autonomous driving technology. The innovation is designed to improve the accuracy and safety of self-driving systems by enabling vehicles to better interpret their surroundings beyond traditional distance and shape detection.
The newly launched sensor, known as the EXT lidar, integrates both spatial and color detection into a single device, making it the first of its kind in the industry. Powered by Hesai’s proprietary Picasso chip, the system allows vehicles to distinguish visual elements such as traffic light colors, which can significantly enhance decision-making in real-world driving scenarios.
According to the company, the product is expected to enter mass production later this year, with plans for integration into flagship vehicles by 2027. This development aligns with a broader shift in the automotive industry toward value-driven innovation, where companies are focusing on improving performance and safety rather than just reducing costs.
Hesai continues to maintain a strong position in the global lidar market, supplying its technology to major electric vehicle manufacturers such as BYD, Xiaomi, and Li Auto. The company accounted for more than 40% of China’s lidar market in 2025 and collaborates internationally, including supplying lidar systems for platforms used by automakers like Mercedes-Benz.
Despite these advancements, lidar adoption remains relatively limited globally, with the technology present in only 3% of vehicles as of 2025. Some automakers, including Tesla, continue to favor camera-based systems over lidar. However, industry experts believe that innovations such as color-detecting sensors could accelerate adoption by addressing key limitations and improving overall system reliability.
