Geely Auto, mainland China’s second-largest carmaker, said it would add its indigenous artificial intelligence (AI)-powered pilot system to vehicles from all of its brands, including Galaxy, Zeekr and Lynk.
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In a virtual briefing on Monday, the company said its brands would use the G-Pilot technology that enables cars to navigate highways and conduct self-parking. With the move, Geely became the second major carmaker on the mainland to make self-driving technology available to all its customers.
“As an industry leader in AI technologies for smart vehicles, Geely Auto Group is committed to promoting greater utilisation of smart technologies among the wider public,” said Gan Jiayue, CEO of the company’s passenger car subsidiary.
Last month, BYD, the world’s largest electric car maker, said it would include an autopilot system in nearly all its cars for free. At least 21 models – including the Seagull hatchback, priced as low as 69,800 yuan (US$9,583) – would be fitted with its indigenous advanced driver-assistance system, the Shenzhen-based company said. BYD is the world’s largest assembler of electric vehicles (EVs).
“Geely’s push for autonomous driving and vehicle intelligence will ratchet up pressure on market leader BYD as the two top EV makers in China compete on the technology front,” said Gao Shen, an independent analyst in Shanghai. “Both companies have a diverse product portfolio and can build vehicles for each price spectrum.”
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In 2024, Geely delivered 2.18 million units – including petrol-powered cars and EVs – to buyers around the world, trailing only BYD.