Top 20 Stocks to Watchlist in the Autonomous Driving Sector (2024)

The automotive industry is on the cusp of a revolution, driven by the burgeoning technology of autonomous driving. Self-driving cars have the potential to transform our transportation systems, improve road safety, and enhance mobility for everyone. At the heart of this transformation lies a complex web of technologies, and the companies developing these technologies stand to reap significant rewards.

This blog delves into the world of autonomous driving stocks, providing you with a comprehensive overview of the key players and the factors shaping this exciting industry. We'll explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and the companies at the forefront of this technological revolution.




1. Introduction to Autonomous Driving

Autonomous vehicles, also known as self-driving cars, are equipped with sensors, cameras, and AI algorithms that enable them to navigate and operate without human intervention. This technology promises to revolutionize transportation by:

  • Enhancing Safety: Autonomous vehicles can react faster than humans, potentially reducing traffic accidents significantly.
  • Improving Efficiency: Self-driving cars can optimize traffic flow, leading to reduced congestion and emissions.
  • Expanding Mobility: Autonomous vehicles can provide transportation options to individuals who are unable to drive themselves.

The growing hype surrounding AI is well-founded, as it plays a pivotal role in the development of autonomous driving systems.

2. The Role of AI and Data Science

AI and data science are the cornerstones of autonomous driving technology. Here's how they contribute:

  • Real-Time Decision Making: AI algorithms process vast amounts of sensor data (cameras, LiDAR, radar) in real-time, enabling vehicles to perceive their surroundings and make critical decisions like steering, braking, and lane changing.
  • The Power of Processing: Semiconductor companies like NVIDIA (NVDA) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) provide the high-performance computing power needed for AI to function effectively in autonomous vehicles.
  • Machine Learning's Contribution: Machine learning algorithms are trained on massive datasets to enable vehicles to continuously learn and improve their ability to navigate complex environments.

3. Autonomous Driving Stocks: A Closer Look

Autonomous driving stocks represent companies whose products or services are essential for the development, deployment, and operation of self-driving car technology. This diverse group includes:




Top Stocks of Autonomous Driving Companies

Stock Key Features in Autonomous Driving Sector Profile Information Future Scope
NVIDIA (NVDA) - Leader in providing high-performance computing power for AI in autonomous vehicles.
- Develops GPUs used in training and inference for self-driving systems.
- Provides DRIVE platform for autonomous vehicle development.
NVIDIA is a leading technology company known for its graphics processing units (GPUs). These GPUs are crucial for AI applications in autonomous vehicles. NVIDIA's technology is expected to be integral to the development of fully autonomous vehicles, with applications in various industries beyond automotive.
Alphabet (GOOG) - Owns Waymo, a leading developer of self-driving car technology.
- Waymo One offers autonomous ride-hailing services.
- Extensive real-world testing and deployment of autonomous vehicles.
Alphabet is the parent company of Google and Waymo. Waymo is a leader in autonomous driving technology, with a focus on developing fully autonomous vehicles for ride-hailing and delivery services. Waymo's expertise in autonomous driving technology positions it for growth as self-driving technology becomes more widespread.
Tesla (TSLA) - Pioneering electric vehicle manufacturer also developing autonomous driving technology. - Autopilot system offers semi-autonomous driving capabilities. - Ambitious plans for full self-driving capability with over-the-air software updates. Tesla is known for its innovative electric vehicles and is actively developing autonomous driving technology through its Autopilot system and Full Self-Driving (FSD) package. Tesla's autonomous driving technology has the potential to disrupt the automotive industry and reshape the future of transportation.
Mercedes-Benz (MBG.DE) - Major automaker heavily invested in autonomous driving research and development. - Developing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving features. - Collaboration with companies like Bosch and HERE for autonomous technology. Mercedes-Benz is a renowned luxury car manufacturer with a strong focus on innovation and technology. The company is investing heavily in autonomous driving research and development to stay competitive in the market. Mercedes-Benz aims to integrate autonomous driving features into its vehicles to enhance safety and convenience for customers, potentially offering both luxury autonomous vehicles and commercial self-driving solutions.
Mobileye (MBLY) - Develops computer vision and machine learning technologies for autonomous vehicles (acquired by Intel). - Provides advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for enhancing vehicle safety. - Offers REM platform for crowd-sourced mapping and localization, crucial for autonomous navigation. Mobileye, acquired by Intel, specializes in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technology. Its computer vision and machine learning technologies are integral to enhancing vehicle safety and autonomy. Mobileye's technology is expected to play a significant role in the development of fully autonomous vehicles, particularly in improving perception and decision-making capabilities. The company's integration with Intel provides access to advanced processing power for its technology.
Aptiv PLC (APTV) - Provides advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving solutions. - Collaborates with other companies like Hyundai and Uber to develop self-driving technology. - Focuses on developing modular and scalable self-driving solutions. Aptiv PLC is a global technology company that specializes in providing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving solutions. The company collaborates with other industry players to develop cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology. Aptiv is well-positioned to benefit from the growing demand for autonomous driving technology, with its expertise in developing ADAS and autonomous solutions. The company's partnerships allow for broader market reach and faster innovation.
XPeng Inc. (XPEV) - Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer developing autonomous driving technology. - Offers advanced driver-assistance features (XPilot) in its vehicles. - Developing its own autonomous driving software (HPA) with a focus on urban environments. XPeng Inc. is a leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer that is actively developing autonomous driving technology for its vehicles. The company offers advanced driver-assistance features and is working on its own autonomous driving software. XPeng's focus on autonomous driving technology positions it to capitalize on the growing demand for self-driving cars in the Chinese market and beyond, particularly in urban areas with complex traffic patterns.
Aurora Innovation (AUR) - Leading self-driving car startup developing software for autonomous vehicles. - Partnerships with automakers (Toyota, Hyundai) and Uber for deployment of self-driving technology. - Focus on safety-first approach and high-performance self-driving systems. Aurora Innovation is a self-driving car startup that is developing software for autonomous vehicles. The company collaborates with automakers and tech companies to deploy autonomous driving technology with a focus on safety and scalability. Aurora's partnerships and focus on safety make it a key player in the autonomous driving industry, with the potential to drive significant advancements in self-driving technology. Their "triple redundant" system offers an extra layer of security in autonomous vehicles.
Innoviz Technologies (INVZ) - Develops high-resolution LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles. - LiDAR technology provides crucial 3D perception data for self-driving cars. - Focus on solid-state LiDAR for improved range, performance, and affordability. Innoviz Technologies specializes in developing LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) systems for autonomous vehicles. LiDAR is a sensor technology that helps self-driving cars perceive their surroundings in 3D, essential for safe navigation. Innoviz's advancements in solid-state LiDAR technology have the potential to make LiDAR systems more affordable and scalable, improving their adoption in the autonomous driving industry.
Aeva Technologies (AEVA) - Develops 4D LiDAR systems that integrate cameras for richer perception data in autonomous vehicles. - 4D LiDAR offers real-time depth, reflection intensity, and velocity data for self-driving cars. - Focus on miniaturized and low-power 4D LiDAR systems for better integration in vehicles. Aeva Technologies develops 4D LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles. These systems combine traditional LiDAR with camera data to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the environment for self-driving cars. Aeva focuses on creating miniaturized and low-power 4D LiDAR systems for easier integration into vehicles. Aeva's 4D LiDAR technology offers the potential for enhanced perception and decision-making in autonomous vehicles, contributing to improved safety and performance. Their focus on miniaturization makes their systems more practical for real-world applications.
Arbe Robotics (ARBE) - Develops radar perception software for autonomous vehicles. - Radar technology complements LiDAR and cameras in self-driving cars, especially in adverse weather conditions. - Arbe's radar software focuses on high-resolution object recognition and tracking. Arbe Robotics specializes in developing radar perception software for autonomous vehicles. Radar technology is crucial for self-driving cars to function in low-visibility situations. Arbe's software focuses on high-resolution object recognition and tracking using radar data. With growing concerns about autonomous vehicle safety in various weather conditions, Arbe's radar perception software can play a vital role in ensuring reliable operation of self-driving cars.
Trimble Inc. (TRMB) - Provides positioning and navigation technology solutions, including high-definition (HD) maps for autonomous vehicles. - HD maps are detailed digital maps that are crucial for self-driving car localization and navigation. - Trimble offers advanced GPS and correction technology for precise positioning. Trimble Inc. provides positioning and navigation technology solutions, including high-definition (HD) maps for autonomous vehicles. HD maps are essential for self-driving cars to understand their surroundings and navigate precisely. Trimble's expertise in positioning and navigation technology positions them to be a key player in providing HD maps and related solutions for the autonomous driving industry.
Cepton Technologies (CPTN) - Develops high-performance LiDAR systems using lidar-on-chip (LoC) technology. - LoC technology offers potential for miniaturization, lower cost, and scalability of LiDAR systems. - Focus on creating automotive-grade LiDAR systems for mass production. Cepton Technologies develops high-performance LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles using lidar-on-chip (LoC) technology. LoC offers potential advantages in miniaturization, affordability, and scalability compared to traditional LiDAR systems. Cepton is focused on creating automotive-grade LiDAR systems suitable for mass production in self-driving cars. Cepton's lidar-on-chip technology has the potential to make LiDAR systems more affordable and practical for widespread adoption in the autonomous driving industry. Their focus on automotive-grade systems makes them well-positioned to meet the demands of car manufacturers.
Luminar Technologies (LAZR) - Develops high-performance LiDAR systems with long range and accuracy for autonomous vehicles. - Focus on automotive-grade LiDAR for integration in self-driving cars. - Partnerships with automakers like Volvo and Nissan for deployment of LiDAR technology. Luminar Technologies specializes in developing high-performance LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles. Their LiDAR systems boast long range and accuracy, crucial for safe self-driving car operation. Luminar is focused on creating automotive-grade LiDAR systems suitable for integration into production vehicles and has partnered with several automakers. Luminar's long-range, high-accuracy LiDAR systems are well-suited for highway and long-distance autonomous driving applications. Their partnerships with automakers position them for potential large-scale adoption in future self-driving cars
Hesai (HSAI) - Chinese manufacturer of LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles and robotics applications. - Offers a range of LiDAR sensors with varying specifications for different use cases. - Focus on affordability and scalability of LiDAR technology. Hesai is a Chinese manufacturer of LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles and robotics applications. They offer a range of LiDAR sensors with varying specifications to cater to different needs in the autonomous driving industry. Hesai focuses on making LiDAR technology more affordable and scalable for broader adoption. Hesai's approach to affordability and offering a range of LiDAR systems makes them a player to watch in the autonomous driving sector, particularly for cost-conscious applications.
Ouster (OUST) - Develops digital LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles and industrial applications. - Digital LiDAR offers advantages in performance and scalability compared to mechanical LiDAR systems. - Partnerships with companies like Uber and Volvo for deployment of LiDAR technology. Ouster develops digital LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles and industrial applications. Digital LiDAR offers potential benefits in performance and scalability compared to traditional mechanical LiDAR systems. Ouster has partnerships with companies like Uber and Volvo for deployment of their LiDAR technology. Ouster's digital LiDAR technology has the potential to improve the performance and scalability of LiDAR systems in autonomous vehicles. Their partnerships position them for potential integration in various self-driving car applications.
Mvis (MVIS) - Develops micro-mirror technology (MEMS) used in LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles. - MEMS technology is a key component for creating miniaturized and affordable LiDAR systems. - Partnerships with companies like STMicroelectronics for development of LiDAR solutions. Mvis develops micro-mirror technology (MEMS) used in LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles. MEMS technology plays a vital role in miniaturizing and reducing the cost of LiDAR systems, making them more practical for autonomous vehicles. Mvis partners with other companies to develop complete LiDAR solutions. The development of MEMS technology is crucial for widespread adoption of LiDAR in autonomous driving. Mvis's contribution to miniaturized and affordable LiDAR systems positions them well in this growing market.
Osemi (OSM) - Provides semiconductor components used in LiDAR and other autonomous driving sensor systems. - Plays a critical role in the supply chain for autonomous vehicle technology. - Broad range of semiconductor products catering to various needs in the automotive industry. Osemi is a supplier of semiconductor components used in LiDAR systems and other sensors for autonomous vehicles. They play a crucial role in the supply chain for self-driving car technology by providing the essential electronic building blocks. Osemi's position in the automotive semiconductor supply chain makes them a potential beneficiary of the growth in autonomous driving technology. Their diverse product range allows them to cater to various needs within the industry.
Baidu (BIDU) - Chinese technology giant investing in autonomous driving research and development. - Operates Apollo Go, a robotaxi service in China. - Focus on developing autonomous driving technology for complex urban environments. Baidu is a major Chinese technology company heavily invested in autonomous driving. They operate Apollo Go, a robotaxi service in China, and are developing self-driving technology specifically for navigating complex urban environments. Baidu's focus on autonomous driving in China positions them well to capitalize on the potential growth of this technology in the Chinese market, which is expected to be a significant driver of autonomous vehicle adoption globally.
HERE Technologies (HERE) - Provides high-definition (HD) mapping and location services for autonomous vehicles. - Offers real-time traffic data and navigation solutions for self-driving cars. - Partnerships with automakers and technology companies for deployment of mapping solutions. HERE Technologies specializes in providing high-definition (HD) maps and location services for autonomous vehicles. Their detailed maps and real-time traffic data are crucial for self-driving car navigation and operation. HERE collaborates with various players in the industry to integrate their mapping solutions. HERE's expertise in mapping and location services makes them a vital player in the autonomous driving ecosystem. Their HD maps and real-time data solutions are essential for safe and efficient navigation of self-driving cars.
Qualcomm (QCOM) - Develops semiconductor solutions for autonomous vehicles, including connectivity and processing power. - Snapdragon Ride platform offers processing power for self-driving car applications. - Focus on providing connectivity solutions for V2X (Vehicle-to-everything) communication in autonomous vehicles. Qualcomm is a leading semiconductor company that develops solutions for autonomous vehicles. Their Snapdragon Ride platform provides the processing power needed for self-driving car applications. Qualcomm also focuses on V2X (Vehicle-to-everything) communication, allowing self-driving cars to communicate with infrastructure and other vehicles for enhanced safety and efficiency. Qualcomm's role in providing connectivity and processing power for autonomous vehicles positions them to benefit from the growth of this technology. Their focus on V2X communication is crucial for enabling seamless interaction between self-driving cars and their surroundings.


 This concludes the list of the top 20 stocks for your autonomous driving watchlist in 2024. Remember, this information is intended to be a starting point for your research, and it's crucial to do your own due diligence before investing in any stock.

Here are some additional resources that you might find helpful:

  • Industry reports and analysis on autonomous driving from reputable financial institutions or research firms.
  • News articles and blogs that cover developments in the autonomous driving sector.
  • Company websites and investor relations sections to learn more about the specific companies you're interested in.

By considering the key features of each company, its role in the autonomous driving sector, and its future prospects, you can make informed decisions about which stocks might be a good fit for your investment portfolio.

I hope this comprehensive overview of the autonomous driving stock landscape has been helpful!


Disclaimer: This list is not exhaustive and should not be considered financial advice. It's recommended to conduct your own research before making any investment decision