of them are not fundable as stand-alone companies). Autonomous driving
vehicles remain imperfect today, with sensors and software that are confused
by such conditions as poor weather or certain obstacles or complex driving
environments. However, we are seeing novel concepts aimed at increasing
the reliability of this means of transport. For example, vehicle-to-vehicle
communication, once it gets deployed on a larger scale among the connected
cars on the road, will allow each vehicle to broadcast its GPS position, speed,
steering-wheel position, brake status, and other data to other vehicles over
short distances to ensure safer driving conditions and avoiding accidents.
• UAV/ Drone Applications:
Unmanned Arial Vehicles (UAVs) have developed
quickly in recent years. According to the Teal Group, the overall commercial
market for UAVs is expected to grow to over $11.5 billion by 2024. Certain
companies are already clear leaders in this space, for example, DJI. Smaller
drones can be valuable in spying and surveillance; they might also be useful
for monitoring disaster areas or delivering supplies to humans. Some start-ups
have developed miniature drones, which use artificial eyes and sophisticated
sensors that maneuver in tight fitting places to avoid collisions. Artificial
Intelligence advancements in "swam" technology, where connected robots in
the air, on land and/or in water can communicate with other another and act in
concert, is near ready for commercial and military applications. Many of these
technologies and applications are being developed with DOD, DARPA or other
government funding. This kind of non-dilutive source of capital, if applicable
and available, is attractive and should be considered and pursued for any
portfolio company. Securing grants from government and institutions may
further enhance future exit valuations.
• Healthcare/ Medical Applications:
The potential of AI-based applications
in the healthcare industry is enormous. They can range from robotics that
can assist the visually and physically impaired (e.g., sophisticated prosthetics
75
Taiwan Economic Forum
Volume 15, Number 4
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