LG Innotek develops world’s first plastic lenses for autonomous driving

This Image shows ADAS, left, and DMS [Photo provided by LG Innotek]

LG Innotek has developed two types of high-performing hybrid lenses for autonomous driving to help it aggressively increase its market share in the global market for camera modules in autonomous driving.

Camera lenses for autonomous driving are a key mobility solution for safety to help the driver recognize movements of an object, which are invisible to the naked eye. The new lenses LG developed will be used for driver monitoring systems (DMS) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Previously, those lenses, made of glass, were bulky in size and expensive. However, LG’s lenses, made from plastics for the first time in the world, are light with an enhanced performance regardless of temperature.

LG plans to target the global camera module market with its new hybrid lenses. It has started promotions for its global customers in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. LG sees growth potential as global carmakers and auto part makers are adding more autonomous driving functions, such as DMS and ADAS solutions. In Europe, all vehicles are recommended to install DMS solutions after 2025. According to global market researcher Strategy Analytics, the global camera market for autonomous driving will likely grow 17 percent annually to 7.9 trillion won ($5.96 billion) in 2025 from 4.2 trillion won in 2021.

LG Innotek is ready to mass-produce camera modules equipped with DMS lenses and plans to complete the development of camera modules with ADAS lenses next year.

LG Innotek shares were unchanged at 284,500 won in the afternoon trading on Wednesday.