Chinese tech firms Hesai and Niu Technologies are pushing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) downmarket, with lidar now appearing on affordable electric scooters. The move is driven by drastic price cuts in lidar technology, making it viable for two-wheelers, not just high-end cars or robotaxis.
Lidar’s Shift from Luxury to Mainstream
For years, lidar – a laser-based sensing technology – was prohibitively expensive. Just over a decade ago, units cost over $43,600 USD; now, Hesai offers sensors for around $200 USD. This 99.5% price drop, achieved through chip integration and mass production, is the key to wider adoption. This isn’t just about cheaper parts; it’s about a fundamental shift in how the industry scales and reduces costs.
Hesai is partnering with Niu, a leading electric two-wheeler manufacturer, to integrate its FTX fully solid-state lidar into Niu’s new NXT2 model. The sensor improves safety in dense urban environments by detecting pedestrians, vehicles, and obstacles in all weather conditions. Niu is also launching NIU AIOS, an AI operating system designed to work with the lidar and D-Robotics chips for enhanced perception.
Why This Matters
The move into scooters is significant because two-wheeled vehicles dominate urban transportation in many parts of Asia and beyond. Poor visibility, unpredictable traffic, and narrow roads make these environments particularly dangerous for riders. Lidar offers a way to mitigate risks, especially blind-spot detection, which is crucial in crowded city streets.
The trend extends beyond Niu: BYD and Leapmotor have filed lidar options for their entry-level EVs, further signaling the technology’s broader integration. Hesai reports that 19% of new cars in China now include lidar, indicating a growing market.
The Future of Two-Wheeled Safety
Falling lidar prices mean that advanced safety features are no longer limited to luxury vehicles. The Niu partnership marks the first large-scale integration of lidar into electric scooters, opening a new market for Hesai and potentially reshaping two-wheeled mobility. This shift suggests that, within the next few years, lidar-equipped scooters and motorcycles will become increasingly common, improving safety and driving smarter urban transport.
