The German Tier-1 major is currently negotiating with two leading Indian two-wheeler OEMs, aiming to integrate its radar-based advanced rider assistance systems into both ICE and EV models that feature ABS.
Continental, a German Tier-1 major known for its significant contributions to vehicle safety in India through the supply of components like ABS for two- and four-wheelers, airbag control units, and ESC systems for passenger vehicles, is setting its sights on the Indian two-wheeler market to launch its ARAS(Advanced Rider Assistance Systems) solutions.
The company aims to introduce its radar-based advanced rider assistance systems, starting with motorcycles and scooters that are already equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) in India. Dr Anshu Gupta, director at Continental, Germany, mentioned that the ARAS solution had been globally available for the past three years, and they are now looking to enter the Indian market, although they are still deciding which specific two-wheeler category to target.
Dr. Gupta highlighted the ongoing evolution of ARAS technology and noted that the company is evaluating which vehicle architectures, including both ICE and EV models, would be most suitable for these advanced safety features. He revealed that positive discussions are underway with two of India’s largest two-wheeler OEMs.
Although Continental has not yet provided specific timelines for the technology’s standard operating procedures in India, Dr Gupta expressed optimism that the discussions would conclude within a year, with a quick launch following the first customer acquisition. The focus is on two-wheelers 125cc and above, which in India require ABS for improved safety.
Continental has developed an economical 4D imaging radar sensor that supports rider-assist functions such as blind-spot detection, lane-change assist, and adaptive cruise control, along with other safety features like rear-end collision warning. The company is open to partnerships for the sustainable rollout of its ARAS solutions and is committed to launching its products robustly and stably in India.
Moreover, Continental aims to localize these advanced safety technologies in India, acknowledging that volume will be crucial in shaping its strategy. The 4D radar sensor is also designed to enable Level-2+ and Level-3 autonomous driving capabilities and ADAS features in modern cars, offering an affordable alternative to cameras and Lidar sensors.
Dr. Gupta emphasized the growing demand for these technologies in emerging markets, particularly in Asia and India, where vehicles equipped with smart radar sensors could offer basic Level-2+ capabilities. He also discussed the importance of satellite and imaging radars in vehicles with distributed zonal architectures, supporting consistent Level-2+ and Level-3 functionalities.
Concluding, Dr. Gupta expressed confidence in Continental’s positioning to capitalize on the shift towards semi-autonomous and highly autonomous driving, highlighting the company’s readiness with the right technology, talent, and footprint to excel in the emerging market trends. He reaffirmed Continental’s commitment to enhancing road safety in India, not only for passenger vehicles but also for two-wheelers, which represent the largest motorized segment on Indian roads.
