Austin Russell
Austin Russell founded Luminar Technologies in 2012 at the age of 17 and served as its CEO until May 2025. Under his leadership, Luminar became a key player in lidar and machine perception technologies for autonomous vehicles, developing advanced lidar systems that improved detection capabilities and fostered partnerships with major automakers like Volvo and Toyota. His vision focused on making lidar technology both high-performing and affordable for mass production, significantly impacting the advancement of self-driving technology and automotive safety.
Career Milestones
- Austin Russell founded Luminar Technologies in 2012 at age 17, developing advanced lidar technology for autonomous vehicles.
- In 2013, he received a Thiel Fellowship, enabling him to focus on Luminar full-time.
- Russell was recognized in Forbes' "30 Under 30" list in 2018 and as an "Innovator Under 35" by MIT Technology Review in 2017.
- Luminar went public in December 2020, making Russell the world's youngest self-made billionaire at 25.
- His leadership has secured over 50 commercial partnerships, including major automakers, advancing automotive safety and technology.
About Luminar Technologies
Luminar Technologies, founded in 2012, is an automotive technology company specializing in LiDAR hardware and software. They help automakers enable advanced safety and autonomous driving features. Their core products, like Iris and Sentinel, offer long-range, high-resolution 3D sensing and perception software. Benefits include enhanced vehicle safety and the path to highway autonomy.