Navya and REE Automotive have signed an agreement to collaborate in the development of a Level 4 autonomous system, featuring REEcorner technology and Navya self-driving solutions. The two companies say the resulting system will be based on the highest safety requirements (ISO 26262:2018 and ISO/PAS 21448:2019).
REE’s highly modular and disruptive REEcorner technology (pictured, above) integrates critical vehicle components (steering, braking, suspension, powertrain and control) into the arch of the wheel. The company says its proprietary x-by-wire technology challenges century-old automotive concepts by being agnostic to vehicle size and design, power source and driving mode (human or autonomous). It claims platforms utilizing REEcorners offer significant functional and operational advantages over conventional EV ‘skateboards’ currently available in the market.
Navya is a leading player in Level 4 autonomous driving systems for passenger and goods transportation. Since 2015, Navya autonomous mobility solutions have been first to market and first to on-road service in real conditions. The Autonom Shuttle, main development platform, is dedicated to passenger transportation. Since its launch, more than 180 units have been sold in 23 countries as of December 31, 2020. The Autonom Tract is designed for goods transportation.
“The combination of our mutual expertise will enable game-changing autonomous mobility solutions that transport passengers and goods efficiently and cost-effectively while fully complying with rigorous safety standards,” said Daniel Barel, co-founder and CEO of REE Automotive. “We are delighted to move forward on a partnership with Navya. This collaboration of REE’s corner technology aligns perfectly with Navya’s strategy of providing constant improvement for its autonomous driving solutions.”
Etienne Hermite, CEO of Navya, concluded, “We are very pleased to have signed this agreement with REE Automotive, which is a major player in automotive technology. This partnership is fully in line with Navya’s strategy of deploying Level 4 autonomous driving systems with safe drive components (steering, braking, suspension, powertrain and control) into the arch of the wheels. This partnership will unlock fantastic opportunities to create multiple new Level 4 autonomous form factors with the view to address different use cases.”
