Seeing Machines Ltd (AIM:SEE, OTC:SEEMF) has struck a development deal with a leading Japanese carmaker to build advanced driver and passenger monitoring systems, as the UK-listed technology company deepens its presence in Asia’s automotive market.
The company said on Wednesday that it had been chosen to deliver an “Advanced Development Project” directly with the manufacturer.
The project will focus on creating a “feature-rich” system that uses artificial intelligence to track drivers’ and passengers’ attention and behaviour inside vehicles, a technology increasingly used to improve road safety.
Japanese carmakers often use these early-stage development projects to test suppliers’ technology before awarding full production contracts.
Seeing Machines said it expects a formal production deal to follow in the first half of 2026, with manufacturing due to begin in the second half of 2028.
Paul McGlone, chief executive, said: “We are delighted to be working directly with a prominent Japanese OEM on this project, demonstrating our commitment, technical capability and alignment with their requirements.
"This engagement reflects growing recognition of our AI-powered DMS/OMS capability and marks an exciting milestone in our expansion within the Japanese automotive market.”
He added that Japan was becoming an increasingly important market for the company and represented “a large proportion” of its current automotive contract pipeline.
Seeing Machines, which is listed on London’s AIM market, develops computer vision technology that uses cameras and sensors to monitor drivers and occupants in vehicles, detecting signs of distraction, fatigue or unsafe behaviour.
The company’s systems are already used by a number of global carmakers and fleet operators.
"We believe this relationship was likely introduced via its contacts at Mitsubishi," said broker Peel Hunt, repeating its 3p price target.
"Hence, it is directly with the OEM and not via a tier-1 supplier, another example of the benefits of this partnership following the FY25 results, which highlighted wins in the US."
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