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Automotive Radar Applications and Technology Trends

Talk given at the IEEE International Microwave Symposium 2023, Workshop WSI

IMS 2023

Abstract

Automotive radar is a key enabling technology for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving. This talk provides an overview of radar applications, market trends, and the evolution of radar technology. The global market is projected to reach $10B by 2025, with most deployments in Level 0–2+ automation systems. Various radar categories are examined, ranging from standard to high-resolution and imaging radars, each optimized for different applications.

Advancements in radar systems-on-chip (SoCs) and antenna technologies, including microstrip and waveguide antennas, are discussed, highlighting their impact on cost, integration, and performance. Imaging radar is emerging as a crucial technology for object classification and scene reconstruction, while digital radar architectures and new modulation schemes improve flexibility and robustness. However, radar interference challenges are growing due to increased deployment, necessitating advanced mitigation strategies.

A shift toward higher frequencies (>100 GHz) offers benefits in resolution and separation but faces regulatory challenges. The talk concludes with insights into future radar developments, emphasizing the need for innovation in hardware, signal processing, and spectrum management to enable the next generation of automotive radar systems.