BYD to Introduce Autopilot System in Electric Vehicles to Stay Competitive Amid China's Price War
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD is set to revolutionise the market by offering an autopilot system in nearly all its cars. This move aims to make autonomous driving accessible to all mainland Chinese customers, positioning BYD as a frontrunner in the escalating price war within the EV industry.
BYD plans to equip at least 21 models with its advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), including the Seagull hatchback priced from as low as 69,800 yuan (US$9,554). This indigenous system, named "God's Eye," will enable cars to navigate on highways and conduct self-parking, marking a significant milestone in smart driving accessibility for all customers.
Founder and chairman of BYD, Wang Chuanfu, expressed that the ADAS system, developed over seven years by 5,000 engineers, will surpass market expectations. This strategic move aligns with industry projections indicating that by 2025, 15 million new cars in China, representing two-thirds of national sales, will feature a preliminary autonomous-driving system.
Zhang Yongwei, general secretary of China EV100, highlighted that these intelligent cars will possess at least Level 2 (L2) self-driving capabilities, requiring drivers to be alert and ready to intervene when necessary. Analysts from Goldman Sachs noted that BYD's acceleration in autopilot technology will significantly impact the market, positioning the company as an industry leader in this domain.
Despite being renowned for its cost-effective electric vehicles, BYD has been trailing behind domestic competitors like Xpeng and Nio in developing intelligent EVs due to its limited experience in digital technology. However, Wang expressed confidence in BYD's commitment to smart driving, emphasising the company's dedication to research and development in this field.
The introduction of the ADAS by BYD signifies a shift towards more affordable autonomous driving solutions in China, with the cost of such systems decreasing over the years due to economies of scale and increased sales of intelligent cars in the country. This move is expected to level the playing field for BYD against its rivals and enhance its competitiveness in the evolving EV market.
BYD to offer autopilot system in nearly all its cars, aiming to democratise autonomous driving in China
Introduction of ADAS system reflects BYD's commitment to innovation and competitiveness in the EV market
Industry projections suggest a significant rise in intelligent cars with self-driving capabilities by 2025
Source: SCMP