Chinese EV Makers Embrace Self-Driving Technology Amid Tesla’s Entry into Market
As reported by BNN Bloomberg, the Chinese automotive industry is abuzz with the unveiling of advanced self-driving models by local automakers, in response to Tesla’s imminent launch of Full Self-Driving technology in the Chinese market in the first quarter of next year.
Xiaomi recently showcased its SU7 EV during a livestreamed test drive by Chairman Lei Jun. The demonstration highlighted the vehicle’s ability to navigate seamlessly “from parking spot to parking spot,” showcasing its smart driving technology throughout the journey.
Inspired by Tesla’s end-to-end technology, Xiaomi’s SU7 EV leverages cameras and AI for real-time driving decisions, eliminating the need for manual programming of driving rules by engineers.
Lei Jun emphasized that the smart driving technology in Xiaomi’s vehicle represents a cutting-edge assisted-driving system, originally introduced by Tesla in the U.S. earlier this year. Chinese EV manufacturers are now ramping up their efforts to match this technological advancement.
Despite concerns surrounding the safety and reliability of driver-assistance systems, the industry views autonomous driving as the future of transportation. Companies are racing to develop and implement this technology to gain a competitive edge.
At the Guangzhou Auto Show, Geely Automobile’s Zeekr brand unveiled version 2.0 of its smart-driving solution, featuring end-to-end technology and poised to launch urban navigation across China by year-end. The company is also considering global expansion of its advanced driver-assistance system in the future.
Chen Qi, formerly of Huawei’s autonomous driving team and now with Zeekr, acknowledged the increased competition from Tesla’s FSD but sees it as a catalyst for innovation. He highlighted the unique road conditions and regulatory environment in China as potential challenges for Tesla’s technology to adapt to immediately.
Geely’s joint venture with Baidu, Jidu Auto (known as Jiyue in China), introduced its AI-powered electric hypercar, the Robo X, boasting impressive acceleration and range capabilities. Customers can reserve the Robo X with a deposit of RMB 49,999 (approximately USD 6,900).
Other Chinese automakers such as Xpeng, Li Auto, and Great Wall Motor also showcased their latest intelligent-driving models at the Guangzhou Auto Show, signaling a growing focus on self-driving technology in the Chinese automotive sector.
