Volvo Cars Tech Fund Invests in Spectralics - Optics & Imaging

Volvo Cars Invests in Augmented Reality Windshield Technology

The investment division of Volvo Cars, a car manufacturer renowned for its commitment to safety, has made a strategic investment in a startup specializing in optics and imaging. This startup is pioneering technology designed for integration into vehicle windshields and windows.

A $2 million investment from the Volvo Cars Tech Fund has been allocated to Spectralics, an optics and imaging company. These funds will be utilized to expedite the development of their optical film. The company asserts this technology has the potential to enhance both vehicle safety and the overall user experience.

Spectralics' Innovative Technology

Spectralics is focused on creating a transparent optical overlay, technically referred to as a “multi-layered thin combiner.” This overlay is intended for seamless integration onto car windshields or windows.

The resulting system is designed to provide an expanded field of view and, critically, a realistic perception of depth. These features are essential for a secure and effective augmented reality display within the vehicle.

Beyond Automotive Applications

The potential applications of this technology extend beyond the automotive sector. It could also be implemented in smart glasses, optical systems, and various head-up display devices.

This investment signifies a growing trend of augmented and virtual reality technologies expanding beyond gaming and consumer products, and finding applications within the automotive industry.

Automotive Industry Focus on In-Cabin Technology

Despite previous challenges in the adoption of AR/VR within vehicles, automakers are increasingly investing in companies that are developing this technology for in-cabin applications.

Volvo’s investment in Spectralics underscores their commitment to this technology. A company spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch that Volvo intends to integrate this technology into its future vehicle models.

Lee Ma, head of the Volvo Cars Tech Fund, stated that Spectralics aligns well with their portfolio and that their technology could establish a new benchmark for displays and cameras in the automotive industry.

Spectralics' Background and Funding

Spectralics is a graduate of MobilityXlab, an accelerator program located in Gothenburg, Sweden. The company is also a participant in Drive-TLV, a mobility hub in Tel Aviv that connects startups with automotive investors.

Volvo’s investment arm has been actively involved with both initiatives since 2017. Recent investments also include MDGo, a developer of accident detection sensors, and UVEye, a company specializing in vehicle inspection technology.

With this new round of funding, the total capital raised by the Israel-based startup now reaches $5 million.