China's Self-Driving Cars Take Aim at Tesla, Following the EV Trend

Baidu leads with 400 driverless taxis in Wuhan. Chinese government supports innovation in auto industry. China aims to learn from Tesla in advancing self-driving technology.

Credit: Shunsuke Tabeta)

With government support, fares range from 1.5 to 2 yuan per kilometer, undercutting traditional cabs by half.

Robin Li, Baidu's CEO, emphasised the success of their self-driving business, which aims to deploy 1,000 vehicles and expand to 100 cities by 2030. Despite positive feedback from users regarding cost-effectiveness, taxi and ride-hailing drivers are concerned about job losses.

Critics point to technological shortcomings, citing reports of self-driving cars causing disruptions. However, the Chinese government remains committed to supporting innovation, particularly in the automotive industry.

At a recent meeting in Shanghai, industry leaders discussed China's desire to lead in electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving. China regards Tesla as a benchmark, with its Full Self-Driving system setting the standard. The government and industry want to use Tesla's expertise to advance Chinese self-driving technology.

China's EV landscape includes a Tesla factory in Shanghai, which creates a competitive environment for domestic automakers. The country wants to replicate the success of EVs with self-driving technology, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Baidu and Huawei Technologies are key players in China's autonomous vehicle sector, and they benefit from a supportive innovation ecosystem. With industry, government, and academia working together, China is poised to make significant advances in self-driving technology.

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• Baidu leads with 400 driverless taxis in Wuhan

• Chinese government supports innovation in auto industry

• China aims to learn from Tesla in advancing self-driving technology

Source: NIKKEI ASIA