Hella selects OmniVision CMOS sensors for rearview automotive cameras

Hella KGaA Hueck & Co. has selected OmniVision Technologies Inc. to supply CMOS image sensors for the color cameras in Hella’s rearview driver assistance system. The CMOS camera in the Hella system has an aperture angle of more than 120 ° so the entire area behind a vehicle is within its field of view. When drivers put their vehicle into reverse, they see an ergonomic color image on a display that adjusts itself to the ambient light level.

"OmniVision has proven to be a valuable partner in developing our rearview camera products," said Hella product line manager Rolf Kuepper. "Their experience in CMOS imaging technology and dedication to meeting the stringent requirements of automotive components were key to the successful development of this product."

Omnivision senior product marketing manager Inayat Khajasha added that Omnivision “worked very closely with Hella and used their guidance and support to qualify our sensors for their automotive applications.”

Hella also said it plans to hire 50 lighting and electronics engineers for jobs in the United States before the end of 2006. The firm recently gained new business from General Motors and was chosen by Ford as a strategic supplier for exterior lighting. Hella plans to double its global sales from $3.8 billion by 2012.