Tallinn-based DeepTech startup DriveX has raised €1.2 million to accelerate the development of its windshield damage detection technology and enhance its AI capabilities.
The investment round was led by Carglass® Estonia, Lithuanian and Slovenian business angels, existing investors and a development grant from the Estonian applied research programme.
According to Rauno Sigur, CEO of DriveX, there is a growing need for sustainable solutions. “Handling glass damage is our next step in making vehicle repairs more economically and environmentally fair. Looking ahead, I see significant waste and inefficiencies in the repair of other assets as well, such as buildings or consumer electronics. The European Parliament’s ‘Right to Repair’ initiative is providing strong momentum for creating a sustainable future, and we aim to become a leader in this space,” Sigur stated.
Founded in 2019 by Kentti Koppel, Rauno Sigur, and Valter Läll, DriveX is a technology company whose AI-based vehicle inspection software is used by 20 insurance companies across 12 markets. The DriveX application guides car owners in capturing images of windshield damage and provides an instant, highly accurate assessment within seconds – indicating whether the glass can be repaired or needs replacement.
According to DriveX, glass damage accounts for 40% of all vehicle insurance claims, which is why DriveX has set its sights on dominating this niche. DriveX solution helps insurance and repair companies enable customer self-service for damage assessments. Thanks to its AI repair or replacement decisions, the correct repair job is booked.
The result is an increase in repairs and a reduction in unnecessary windshield replacements. Repairing minor cracks is up to 10 times more cost-effective and produces 1000 times less waste compared to full glass replacements – as per DriveX.
Until now, DriveX has primarily served insurance companies, offering an intelligent imaging solution for pre-insurance vehicle risk assessments. Last year, the company introduced AI-based functionality for windshield damage detection, expanding its market reach and supporting partners like Carglass® Estonia.
“DriveX helps us reduce labor costs and enhance the customer experience with its smart remote solution. Our bookings are more accurate, and spare part management is smoother – for example, we don’t need to order a new windshield if the damage is repairable. Additionally, DriveX’s solution improves transparency in our processes and enhances trust among key customers,” commented Sven Freiberg, CEO of Carglass® Estonia.
DriveX’s strategy involves close collaboration with repair shops and insurance claims handlers, offering them an opportunity to increase efficiency and gain a competitive edge. With accurate and flexible applications, its solution is expected to launch in several new countries this year.
However, the team aims to further strengthen its competitive advantage, as feedback from industry leaders has confirmed interest along with more specific needs.
Remote and automated damage assessment requires AI to understand multiple aspects of damage. Assessing damage size in 2D format has proven to be an exciting challenge, which will now be tested in both laboratory and real repair shop environments.
“Thanks to the grant, we can accelerate our research and development, create new patents, and secure our position as a global market leader,” added Sigur. The startup aims to reach hundreds of insurance companies across 40 countries and has already taken its first steps into Western European markets.
Read the orginal article: https://www.eu-startups.com/2025/02/deeptech-startup-drivex-raises-e1-2-million-for-ai-windshield-damage-detection/
