Hesai Group, a China-based LiDAR sensor manufacturer for autonomous driving, has secured an exclusive agreement to supply over 1.5 million LiDAR units to Changan Automobile for its new intelligent driving platform.

The deal includes the provision of Hesai’s ATX compact LiDAR model, with shipments expected to cover more than ten vehicle models across multiple Changan brands over the next few years.

The first vehicle featuring this platform is slated to enter mass production in the second half of 2025.

The ATX LiDAR is a “compact, high-resolution long-range” sensor that utilises Hesai’s proprietary platform technology.

It enhances point cloud resolution while reducing the unit’s size, weight, and power consumption, making it an ideal solution for mass-market electric and autonomous vehicles.

The ATX model, Hesai’s fourth-generation LiDAR, boasts a 60% reduction in size and weight compared to its predecessor, the AT128.

It stands at 25mm in height, weighs just 360 grams, and is optimised for easy integration into vehicle designs without disrupting aerodynamics.

With a detection range of up to 300m and advanced IPE (Intelligent Point Cloud Engine) technology, the ATX can filter 99.9% of environmental noise, offering high performance in rain, fog, and other challenging conditions.

It also features a 120–140° field of view and operates on 8watts of power.

The agreement follows a strategic partnership formed in 2022, which saw the launch of the Changan Nevo E07, featuring two of Hesai's AT128 lidars.

The model's success has paved the way for expanded collaboration, with Hesai poised for growth as more automakers adopt the ATX for 2025 models.

Last month, Hesai Group planned to cut the price of its LiDAR products by 50% next year.

The price reduction aims to accelerate the adoption of LiDAR technology in electric vehicles (EVs), making it more accessible for lower-cost models priced under 150,000 yuan ($20,000).