In a statement, the companies highlighted the technical superiority of LiDAR over camera and radar, primarily focusing on its ability to function equally well in light or dark conditions as well as in other degraded visual conditions where other sensors fall short.

They also claimed that LiDAR has the resolution needed to detect pedestrians even when they are not moving.

"To exclude lidar in crash-avoidance technology is to ignore half of the equation," the LiDAR manufacturers said.

Related Link: Is Tesla Warming To Radar Once Again?

The coalition called on government recognition of these facts in policy.

"With multiple ongoing rule-makings such as NHTSA's proposed updates to the New Car Assessment Program and automatic emergency braking with PAEB, it is critical that all policies reflect the capabilities and limitations of sensors incorporated into vehicle safety technologies," the LiDAR makers urged.

Musk had a single word observation on the development. He termed these arguments as lame.

Photo: Courtesy of velodynelidar.com