Horizon Robotics: Impact of OEM Self-Developed Chips Is Not Zero
AI summary card
Horizon Robotics: Impact of OEM Self-Developed Chips Is Not Zero
Horizon Robotics addresses OEM self-developed chip trend via IP licensing model, expecting BPU IP demand growth.
- Horizon Robotics will address the OEM self-developed chip trend through an IP licensing model.
- Management team expects BPU IP demand to continue growing.
- J6M sales are unaffected this year, but overall weak auto market may drag down H1 performance.
- IP licensing model gross margin approaches 100%, significantly higher than traditional chip sales.
Report interpretation
Overview
This research report discusses the impact of OEMs shifting to self-developed chip solutions on Horizon Robotics and proposes Horizon Robotics' strategy to address this trend through an IP licensing model.
Core views
Horizon Robotics plans to address the trend of OEM self-developed chips through an IP licensing model. Although OEM self-developed chips are becoming an industry trend, Horizon Robotics expects its BPU IP demand to continue growing, which will also drive adoption of its HSD software. While J6M sales will not be affected this year, the weakness in the overall automotive market could result in Horizon Robotics' growth in the first half of the year being lower than the expected 60% annual growth rate. The gross margin of the IP licensing model is close to 100%, significantly higher than that of traditional chip sales.
Analysis framework
The research report analyzes the trend of OEM self-developed chips and its impact on Horizon Robotics' business. Horizon management emphasized the advantages of the IP licensing model and forecasted future demand growth for its BPU IP. By comparing gross margins across different business models, the report highlights the potential profitability opportunities of the IP licensing model.
Methodology notes
IP Licensing Model
Horizon Robotics improves gross margins through the IP licensing model, which is relatively common in the semiconductor industry, capable of reducing R&D costs and increasing revenue streams.
Asset mapping & comparison
Structured mapping from thesis to named assets (strengths, weaknesses, peers, risks).
- Horizon Robotics (9660.HK)Benefits from IP Licensing Model
- Strengths
- High Gross Margin IP Licensing Model
- Weaknesses
- Short-term weakness in automotive market demand
- Comparison
- Compared to competitors, Horizon possesses unique BPU architecture and software advantages
- Risks
- Success of OEM self-developed chips may lead to decline in market share
Key data
- J6M SalesUnaffected2026
- IP Licensing Model Gross MarginApproaches 100%Significantly higher than 40-50% for traditional chip sales
- 2026 First Half Growth RateBelow 60% Annual Growth RateDue to overall automotive market weakness
Impact & implications
Horizon Robotics is expected to maintain competitiveness amidst the OEM self-developed chip trend through the IP licensing model, which will help improve profit margins and expand market share. However, weakness in the overall automotive market may affect its short-term performance.
Risks
- OEM self-developed chip design delays or failures
- Market access restrictions for other solution providers in China
- Sales pressure in China's automotive market
What to watch
- Progress of OEM self-developed chip projects
- Changes in market demand for Horizon BPU IP
- Overall performance of China's automotive market