Continental joins Leipzig-based AI start-up Kopernikus Automotive

The DAX-listed company acquires a minority stake. The start-up offers automated parking in parking garages.

The automotive parts supplier Continental is investing in the AI start-up Kopernikus Automotive from Leipzig. Both companies have agreed not to disclose the amount of the investment, but the DAX-listed company is acquiring a minority stake.

Kopernikus Automotive has developed a technology that allows cars to be parked automatically in parking garages. Fixed sensors are installed in the parking garages and AI-supported algorithms then supposedly steer the vehicle safely to the parking space. The two companies now want to work together to further develop the technology. The successes of the cooperation will be on display for the first time in a parking garage at the IAA 2021 in Munich. Continental sees potential in the technology, particularly for multi-storey parking lots in car factories or logistics centers.

"In the future, cars will move autonomously in factories and also in parking garages," says Ralph Lauxmann, Head of Strategy and Future Solutions for the Autonomous Mobility and Safety business area at Continental. "The investment in Kopernikus is the logical next step for us to further advance both topics and offer a marketable solution in the near future." The technology required for automated parking is already installed as standard in many vehicles today, says Continental.