Core Insights - Aeva Technologies has secured a significant Tier-1 contract with a major European passenger car manufacturer, establishing its Atlas Ultra sensor as the standard LiDAR for multiple vehicle models globally, excluding China, and ensuring production through the mid-2030s [1][9] - The successful completion of the joint development phase with the automaker has reduced technical risks and increased the likelihood of securing additional contracts [2] - Aeva is preparing for increased production capacity at its Fabrinet facility to meet anticipated demand by 2026, indicating readiness for mass production [3][4] Company Performance - Aeva reported third-quarter 2025 revenues of $3.6 million, an operating loss of $27.2 million, and cash use of $33.6 million, with total available cash around $270 million, supported by a recent $100 million investment from Apollo [3] - The company is still in an early stage, facing challenges in scaling manufacturing and proving its technology's performance and reliability [5] Market Context - The LiDAR market features competitors like Ouster and Luminar Technologies, which offer advanced sensor technologies aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency across various industries [6][7] - Aeva's stock has seen significant appreciation, more than tripling in 2025, although it trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of nearly 35, which is considerably higher than the industry average [8][10]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $3.6 million, driven by ongoing sensor shipments and non-recurring engineering (NRE) contributions [16] - Non-GAAP operating loss decreased by 13% year-over-year to $27.2 million, reflecting a target to reduce full-year 2025 non-GAAP operating expenses by 10%-20% [16] - Gross cash use was $33.6 million in Q3, higher than the previous quarter due to timing of payments and working capital adjustments [16] - Total available liquidity at the end of September was $173.9 million, excluding a new $100 million investment from Apollo Global Management [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aeva completed the development program with a top 10 global passenger OEM ahead of schedule and is in late-stage contract negotiations for a series production award [4][10] - Progress was made on the Daimler Truck production program, with initial vehicle builds completed and initial orders received for 2026 shipments [12] - The EVE 1D sensor has started shipping against initial orders of over 1,000 units, and the EVE 1V sensor was unveiled to expand the product line [5][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The precision sensing market is projected to be a multi-billion-dollar opportunity, with strong initial orders for the EVE 1V sensor from multiple customers [5][24] - The automotive market is seeing increased interest in Aeva's FMCW technology, particularly for Level 3 driving capabilities [10][54] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Aeva is focused on expanding its unified perception platform to meet growing demand across various applications, including automotive and precision sensing [6][18] - The company aims to leverage partnerships, such as with LG Innotek and Apollo Global Management, to enhance its market position and support scaling efforts [6][17] - Aeva's technology transition from Time-of-Flight to FMCW is expected to set a precedent for other OEMs, potentially accelerating interest in FMCW technology [10][54] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in closing the production program with the top 10 global passenger OEM and highlighted the potential for significant market validation [10][37] - The company anticipates strong momentum into 2026, supported by a robust balance sheet and ongoing commercial traction [6][18] - Management noted that the successful completion of the development program could serve as a blueprint for other OEMs, enhancing Aeva's competitive landscape [10][54] Other Important Information - Aeva announced a $100 million investment from Apollo Global Management in the form of convertible notes, which will provide additional capital for growth [6][17] - The company has established a strong liquidity position of approximately $270 million, enhancing its competitive advantage [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the ramp in metrology sales? - Management noted strong market traction for the EVE 1D sensor and initial orders for the EVE 1V sensor, with a significant market opportunity projected in the multi-billion-dollar range [20][21][24] Question: Can you discuss the L2 ADAS opportunity in trucking? - Management highlighted the unique opportunity for Aeva's technology in Level 2+ applications, particularly through partnerships with key players like Bendix [26][30][31] Question: What is the timeline for the top 10 OEM program? - Management indicated that the timeline for the launch is on track for late 2027 to early 2028, with ongoing negotiations progressing positively [47][49] Question: What is the intended use of the $100 million investment from Apollo? - The investment is for general corporate purposes, aimed at supporting ongoing growth and capitalizing on market opportunities without significant increases in expenditure [44][45] Question: What factors are driving interest from other major OEMs? - Management cited the successful completion of the development program with the top 10 OEM as a catalyst for increased engagement from other automotive players [50][53]