Chinese internet giant Baidu has announced it will provide Tesla with advanced mapping software to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer's self-driving capabilities in China.
This collaboration is expected to accelerate the launch of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system on the mainland.
Baidu's 3D Mapping Tech Preps Tesla's Self-Driving EVs for China
Baidu is set to power Tesla's self-driving plans in China by integrating its latest 3D map technology into Tesla's vehicles. Baidu Maps Version 20 (V20), a state-of-the-art desktop and mobile web-mapping application, will soon be available on Tesla EVs, the South China Morning Post reports.
The Chinese tech company said in a Weibo post that this version of Baidu Maps, released in April, features lane-level navigation and 3D vision, providing a user interface that is "more intuitive" and "better suited" for Tesla drivers.
The integration of Baidu Maps V20 into Tesla vehicles is expected to roll out soon, as Baidu has assured customers that the software will be available "very soon."
This follows a delay that prompted Baidu to apologize to users on Weibo. Initially, the new version was scheduled for a May launch. Tesla, along with other car brands like Huawei and JiYue, will be among the first to adopt this advanced navigation system.
Why Baidu?
Tesla's partnership with Baidu is perhaps the only way for the carmaker to introduce its FSD system in China, a market where mapping data is highly regulated and Google Maps is not officially available.
In late April, Baidu and Tesla struck a deal for mapping licenses and data collection on Chinese roads. This agreement came after Tesla CEO Elon Musk met with Premier Li Qiang in China, where he sought approvals for the rollout of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system and permissions for data transfer.
For intelligent driving systems to operate in China, they require a mapping qualification. Foreign companies like Tesla must partner with licensed domestic firms to obtain this qualification.
Baidu is one of the few entities in China with a top-level map-surveying qualification necessary for advanced driver-assistance systems. This collaboration allows Tesla to leverage Baidu's extensive mapping capabilities to meet regulatory requirements and enhance its self-driving technology.
Baidu Maps V20 Features
Baidu Maps V20 boasts several features designed to improve the driving experience and support autonomous vehicle technology. The software includes traffic light countdowns, lane instructions, and surveillance alerts, making navigation more precise and user-friendly.
Additionally, Chinese news outlet Pandaily tells us that the 3D Leading version of the maps, specifically tailored for Tesla, includes camera reminders, lane departure warnings, bus lane reminders, and speeding alerts. These features aim to alleviate driver anxiety and enhance safety on the road.
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