The fact that we still do not have a significant number of cars with LIDAR on our streets somewhat proves which approach the auto industry considers viable for business.

I am much more curious about the next ten years. If we can bring down the cost of a LIDAR unit into parity with camera systems[1], I think I know the answer. But I thought that 10 years ago and it did not happen so I wonder what is the real roadblock to make LIDAR cheap.

[1] Which it won't replace, of course. What it will change is that it makes the LIDAR a regular component, not an exceptionally expensive component.

The fact that the only working self driving system uses LIDAR might say even more.