Safer driving: Michelin acquires RoadBotics

Computer vision, an artificial intelligence technique for analysing camera images and then understanding and processing information obtained from them, is a speciality of RoadBotics, the newest member of the Michelin family. Michelin has acquired the US-based firm for an undisclosed sum.

Founded in 2016, RoadBotics leverages artificial intelligence to analyse visual data collected on roads by cameras, primarily smartphones. Thanks to RoadBotics’ computer vision know-how, the images are transformed into actionable insights that help road managers identify priority maintenance areas.

With this acquisition, Michelin intends to combine RoadBotics’ computer vision expertise with its own know-how in the area of driving data to intelligence (DDi) to provide insights on the root causes of near-misses based on driving behaviour. It will offer these insights as a Michelin DDi service that will make decision-making “easier, faster, more relevant” and road safety management “more efficient.” Michelin will initially offer this service in North America before rolling it out in Europe.

“This new acquisition is in line with Michelin’s growth strategy around tyres,” states Lorraine Frega, the Michelin Group’s executive vice-president, Distribution, Services & Solutions, Strategy, Innovation & Partnerships. “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 behaviour analysis and Roadbotics computer vision expertise, Michelin is enriching its services and solutions offer portfolio to road managers helping them to optimise and secure road networks.”