Untether AI, a Canada-based specialist in at-memory computation for artificial intelligence (AI) inference acceleration, is to collaborate with General Motors, supported by the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), to accelerate the development of next-generation artificial intelligence perception systems for autonomous vehicles. Under the agreement, Untether AI and GM will work together to demonstrate an autonomous vehicle perception system based on Untether AI’s at-memory computation technology.
“This demonstration project with General Motors illuminates the future of AI-powered perception systems that will make autonomous vehicles a reality,” said Arun Iyengar, CEO of Untether AI. “We’re pleased and excited about the support we’ve gotten from OVIN and the government of Ontario, who are leading the way to nurture innovative technology efforts in Canada.”
The project will incorporate Untether AI’s next-generation at-memory compute technology to accelerate neural networks for AV perception systems. GM will contribute guidance and insight on AV perception system requirements, as well as providing access to the neural network technology that is utilized in the company’s current AV perception system.
The project’s goal is to help increase autonomous vehicle performance by providing faster and more accurate vision response, reducing the power draw of various AV systems to increase battery life, and even helping to enable the downsizing of vehicle batteries. Additionally, this solution will aim to save on overall autonomous vehicle control system cost.
“GM is always looking for opportunities to collaborate with exciting new startups and support advanced technology development right here in Canada,” said Ted Graham, principal at GM Ventures in Canada. “The technology developed by Untether AI has great potential to improve computing performance with low power consumption and at a lower cost, which are both priorities for the GM enterprise vision for an all-electric, connected and autonomous future.”