Michelin has announced the acquisition of RoadBotics, a US company specialized in road infrastructure images analysis.
Founded in 2016, RoadBotics leverages artificial intelligence to analyze visual data collected on roads by cameras (mainly smartphones). Thanks to RoadBotics’ computer vision[1] know-how, the images are transformed into actionable insights which helps road managers to identify priority maintenance areas.
With this acquisition, Michelin is fostering the development of services and solutions already offered by MICHELIN DDi (Driving Data to Intelligence), a Group activity committed to analyzing data and driving behavior.
The computer vision expertise developed by RoadBotics, combined with MICHELIN’s DDi know-how, will provide unique insights on near-misses root causes based on driving behavior. As a result, their decisions will be easier, faster, more relevant and their management of road safety more efficient. The service will initially be available in North America before being rolled out in Europe.
“This new acquisition is in line with Michelin’s growth strategy around tires. With the acquisition of RoadBotics, Michelin strengthens its expertise in artificial intelligence supporting a smarter and safer mobility. Combining its unique knowledge of tire/vehicle uses, driving behavior analysis and Roadbotics computer vision expertise, Michelin is enriching its services and solutions offer portfolio to road managers helping them to optimize and secure road networks”, declared Lorraine Frega, Executive Vice President – Distribution, Services & Solutions, Strategy, Innovation & Partnerships of the Michelin Group.
[1]Computer vision describes an artificial intelligence technique enabling the analysis of images collected by equipment such as cameras. This AI-based technique helps to recognize images, understand them and process the information obtained from them.
SOURCE: Michelin
