Changan Automobile recently unveiled its Dubhe Plan 2.0, a strategic move aimed at making driver assistance systems more accessible in affordable models. The announcement came just a day before rival BYD’s smart driving strategy launch event, showcasing the fierce competition in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
Under the Dubhe Plan 2.0, Changan will no longer develop new non-intelligent products, focusing instead on launching 35 intelligent vehicle models over the next three years. One of the key highlights of the plan is the inclusion of LiDAR technology in models priced at RMB 100,000 ($13,700) starting in August. This technology is expected to support features like automatic emergency braking (AEB) at speeds of up to 135 km/h.
Changan’s goal with the Dubhe smart driving system is ambitious, aiming to achieve full-scenario L3 autonomous driving by 2026 and full-scenario L4 autonomous driving by 2028. The company’s sub-brands, including Nevo, Deepal, and Avatr, are set to launch a variety of intelligent vehicle models over the next three years, catering to different market segments.
This latest move by Changan builds on its earlier efforts with the Dubhe Plan 1.0, implemented in 2018, which saw the introduction of internet-connected vehicles with driver assistance systems by 2020. The automaker sees the Dubhe Plan 2.0 as a crucial step in its business strategy, aiming to exceed five million units in overall sales by 2030, with a significant portion of sales coming from smart cars.
Changan’s announcement comes at a time when the industry is witnessing a rapid shift towards smart driving technologies. BYD, a key player in the electric vehicle market, is also gearing up to launch its vehicle intelligence strategy, with plans to introduce 11 models equipped with advanced intelligent driver assistance systems.
The competition between Changan and BYD is expected to accelerate the adoption of smart driving technologies in more affordable models, bringing the smart driving era closer to reality. Additionally, the recent announcement of a potential reorganization and merger between Changan and Dongfeng Motor hints at the formation of one of the world’s largest auto groups.
Overall, Changan’s Dubhe Plan 2.0 signifies a significant step towards making intelligent driving systems more accessible and widespread, setting the stage for a new era of smart mobility in the automotive industry.
