[News] China’s Xiaomi, Geely Unveil Self-Driving EV Models to Challenge Tesla

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According to a report from BNN Bloomberg, while Tesla is preparing to launch its Full Self-Driving technology in the Chinese market in the first quarter of next year, Chinese automakers are unveiling their own self-driving models, equipped with advanced autonomous driving features and artificial intelligence.

The report highlights that last week, Xiaomi Chairman Lei Jun livestreamed a test drive of  its SU7 EV. The demonstration showcased the vehicle’s ability to travel seamlessly “from parking spot to parking spot,” meaning it started from one parking space to another at the destination, utilizing smart driving technology throughout the journey.

According to the report, Xiaomi’s SU7 EV draws inspiration from Tesla’s end-to-end technology. It uses cameras and AI to make real-time driving decisions, instead of relying on engineers to program rules for driving simulation.

Xiaomi Chairman Lei stated that this smart driving technology represents the most advanced assisted-driving system available today. While it was originally introduced by Tesla in the U.S. in January, Chinese EV manufacturers are accelerating their efforts to catch up, as the repot notes.

The report indicates that despite ongoing concerns about the safety and reliability of driver-assistance systems — with Tesla’s Autopilot and FSD facing lawsuits and federal safety investigations — many in the industry see autonomous driving as the future of transportation. Companies are rushing to develop this technology to stay ahead of their competitors.

At the Guangzhou Auto Show in China, Geely Automobile’s premium EV brand, Zeekr, unveiled version 2.0 of its smart-driving solution. The report indicates that this advanced system features end-to-end technology and is set to roll out urban navigation across China by year-end. Zeekr is also considering introducing its advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) in the global market in the future, as the report notes.

According to the report, Chen Qi from Zeekr, who used to be the leader of Huawei’s autonomous driving team, mentioned that Tesla’s FSD will increase competition for Chinese EV makers but sees this as a positive development that can boost innovation. He also pointed out that China’s unique road conditions and regulatory environment may pose challenges for Tesla’s technology to adapt immediately.

Geely’s joint venture with Baidu, Jidu Auto—known as Jiyue in China—has unveiled its AI-powered electric hypercar, the Robo X. The report mentions that the model can accelerate from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in just 1.9 seconds and offers a range of 650 kilometers (403 miles) on a single charge.

According to the report, although the price of the Robo X has not yet been decided, customers can place an order with a deposit of RMB 49,999 (approximately USD 6,900).

The report highlights that other Chinese automakers, including Xpeng, Li Auto, and Great Wall Motor also showcased their latest intelligent-driving models at the Guangzhou Auto Show event.

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(Photo credit: Xiaomi)