Though radar is already commonly used in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) today, most systems only use a single forward-facing type to detect vehicles ahead. Fisker will advance this technology with a state-of-the-art ADAS platform called the Fisker Intelligent Pilot. This integrates 4 types of sensors: an industry-leading surround-view camera suite; a camera-based driver-monitoring system, ultrasonic technology, and a Digital-Imaging Radar System that Fisker expects will be first to market when the fully electric Ocean SUV begins production in November 2022.
While complete details have not been revealed, it is known that the ADAS features and a suite of software packages powered by a scalable domain controller architecture are developed together with Magna, a global supplier.
The cameras provide latest-generation vision capability, with a front-facing 8-megapixel camera delivering the highest resolution currently available in a vehicle. The 360-degree camera system enables base-level object detection from proven technology used on tens of millions of vehicles globally.
Fisker’s industry-first Digital Code Modulation-based radar system uses 5 units positioned around the Ocean body to confirm and enhance what the cameras see. The system has performance superior to analog radar systems as it provides an additional degree of perception in conditions of bad weather and excessive sun glare which can obscure the imagery.
The system can also better distinguish its surroundings in environments of high light-dark contrast, such as in tunnels and on bridges, and differentiate objects of varying sizes and speeds on highways, such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Additionally, Fisker the radar can separate objects from backgrounds and detect low-lying roadway obstructions.
With its features working together, Fisker Intelligent Pilot’s perception stack with camera and radar sensor fusion makes better decisions at highway speeds, in city traffic, and in poor weather. The radar can locate vehicles at 200 metres and pedestrians at 80 metres.
“Fisker Intelligent Pilot and Fisker Digital-Imaging combine reliable ADAS cameras with first-to-market 4D digital radars, giving owners industry-leading safety to go along with a US$37,499 price for the Fisker Ocean Sport and over 350 miles (560 kms) of range.
With semi-autonomous systems like adaptive cruise control, there is a risk of the driver being less attentive or even getting drowsy. To ensure that the driver is attentive when the system is engaged, the Fisker Intelligent Pilot uses an A-pillar-mounted interior camera that monitors for drowsiness and concentration and alerts the driver when necessary.
The Ocean, a 5-passenger SUV, will be introduced to the European market at Mobile World Congress later this month in Barcelona, Spain. Promoted as ‘the world’s most sustainable vehicle’, Fisker expects to sell up to 60,000 units a year in that region. Fisker Magic Works, opened in England last year, will develop special editions of the company’s vehicles alongside new, high-performance projects combining sustainability with Henrik Fisker’s commitment to beautiful, emotional design.
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