Baidu launches updates to smart driving products amid rising competition

Photo credit: Baidu

Baidu has launched new products and updates in intelligent driving, intelligent cabin, and intelligent maps during the automotive intelligence conference of Auto Shanghai 2023.

The company released a new white paper that outlines the key capabilities for car manufacturers. Baidu expected that by 2026, over 15% of the smart car models sold in China will be equipped with L2+ intelligent driving solutions, valet parking, as well as highway and city navigation.

Baidu has introduced The Apollo City Driving Max, its intelligent driving solution, which been upgraded with a high-definition map that the company claimed to be 80% lighter than other HD maps.

Meanwhile, its autonomous driving system Apollo Highway Driving Pro will be developed further with the help of AI computer chip maker Black Sesame Semiconductor.

Baidu also improved Apollo Parking, which can now take 28 seconds to complete perpendicular parking, making it easier for beginner drivers.

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The Chinese internet giant currently provides two flagship intelligent cabin solutions: the DuerOS and Duer assistant. The company has also upgraded its in-vehicle navigation maps with different levels of quality, performance, and real-time data.

The release of new products and upgrades comes amid an increasingly competitive landscape in the autonomous vehicle industry. Rivals such as Tencent and Alibaba are also investing heavily in intelligent driving tech, aiming to capture a share of the fast-growing market.