The Race for Intelligent Driving: JIDU Auto and Zeekr Step Up

September 1, 2024, 3:54 pm
Geely Auto

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Geely Auto Verified account
AutomationBrandBuildingCarManufacturingPageServiceVehicles
Location: China
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1997
Tesla
Tesla
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Location: United States, Texas, Austin
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 2003
Total raised: $3.86B
The electric vehicle (EV) landscape is shifting. Two Chinese companies, JIDU Auto and Zeekr, are leading the charge. They are not just participants; they are pioneers. Their latest innovations promise to reshape the future of intelligent driving and redefine consumer expectations.

On August 28, 2024, JIDU Auto unveiled its V2.0 software at an AI driving conference in Chengdu. This software is a game-changer. It introduces Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, powered by Baidu Apollo's advanced technology. Imagine a car that can navigate complex urban environments without human intervention. That’s the vision JIDU Auto is bringing to life.

The V2.0 software upgrade is monumental. It boasts 947 new features, enhancing everything from smart driving to vehicle connectivity. This is not just an update; it’s a leap into the future. JIDU Auto has opted for a two-stage end-to-end model, a strategic choice that simplifies system design. This model separates perception from decision-making, making it easier to test and maintain. In a world where safety is paramount, this approach offers a clearer path to reliability.

JIDU Auto's advancements in pure vision technology are impressive. They surpass traditional LiDAR systems, achieving centimeter-level precision. Picture a car that can identify a water bottle from 200 meters away. This level of detail transforms the driving experience. It’s not just about getting from point A to B; it’s about doing so with confidence and safety.

Meanwhile, Zeekr is making waves of its own. On the same day as JIDU's announcement, Zeekr began taking orders for its first family SUV, the 7X. This vehicle is poised to compete directly with Tesla’s Model Y. With a pre-sale price of RMB 239,900 (approximately $33,812), the 7X offers impressive specs. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and boasts a range of 780 km on a single charge.

Zeekr is not just another EV maker; it’s a subsidiary of Geely, a giant in the automotive industry. The 7X is a strategic move to diversify its offerings beyond sedans and multi-purpose vehicles. It aims to capture a significant share of the growing SUV market. With a target of 230,000 annual deliveries, Zeekr is positioning itself for aggressive growth.

The competition between JIDU Auto and Zeekr is heating up. Both companies are leveraging advanced technology to attract consumers. JIDU Auto’s focus on autonomous driving and intelligent features contrasts with Zeekr’s emphasis on performance and range. This dual approach caters to different consumer needs, creating a dynamic marketplace.

JIDU Auto’s integration of Baidu’s Apollo ADFM technology is a significant milestone. It marks the first time Level 4 autonomous driving is available in consumer vehicles. This technology has been honed over a decade, with Baidu investing heavily in AI and autonomous systems. The result is a robust platform that promises to deliver safe and efficient driving experiences.

The JIDU Auto press conference highlighted another breakthrough: the introduction of the industry’s first native AI large-scale model cockpit. This cockpit redefines interaction between driver and vehicle. With features like lip movement recognition, it enhances communication in noisy environments. Imagine a car that understands you better than your best friend. This is the future JIDU Auto is crafting.

On the other hand, Zeekr’s 7X is not just about performance; it’s about expanding the EV narrative. The SUV market is booming, and Zeekr is ready to capitalize. By offering a vehicle that can go the distance—both in range and speed—it aims to attract a broad audience. The 7X is set to launch in September, and its success could be a turning point for the brand.

Both JIDU Auto and Zeekr are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive world. They are not just building cars; they are creating experiences. As consumers become more tech-savvy, their expectations will rise. The demand for intelligent driving solutions will only grow.

In this race, innovation is the fuel. JIDU Auto’s commitment to safety and user experience positions it as a leader in autonomous driving. Zeekr’s focus on performance and practicality makes it a formidable competitor. The interplay between these two companies will shape the future of mobility.

As we look ahead, the landscape of intelligent driving is evolving. The advancements from JIDU Auto and Zeekr signal a new era. An era where cars are not just machines but intelligent companions. They will navigate our roads, understand our needs, and enhance our journeys.

The future is bright for these pioneers. They are not just chasing trends; they are setting them. With each innovation, they are redefining what it means to drive. The race is on, and the finish line is just the beginning.