Zeekr introduces driver aid for free, intensifies EV tech race
The Chinese brand Zeekr is introducing an advanced driver assistance system for free to attract customers amid increasing competition in the electric vehicle market. This move responds to actions by companies like Tesla, which is also testing free access to its software, according to CNBC.
The Chinese electric car manufacturer Zeekr announced that it will offer its advanced driver assistance system completely free. The technology enables nearly autonomous driving between designated points, provided the driver keeps their hands on the steering wheel. Initially, these features will be available in a pilot program and more widely from April.
"Right now, in this period of development, I think subscriptions aren’t that meaningful," emphasized Zeekr President Andy An in an interview with CNBC. He emphasized that Zeekr needs to bridge the gap with market leaders and establish itself as a major competitor. Therefore, the company decided to cover the cost of this technology. "So we must bear certain costs," he noted.
The Zeekr system is based on two Nvidia Orin X chipsets and one lidar, which, as An explains, "may increase cost, but this reflects how much we value safety." The next generation of the system is set to use even more advanced Nvidia Thor chips and additional lidars.
The next stage of the battle
Zeekr is not the only player intensifying the technological rivalry. Tesla, as reported by Chinese social media, offers free access to its Full Self-Driving system to selected users until mid-April.
Zeekr also plans to expand its solutions to other brands within the Geely Group, including Lynk & Co., which it formally acquired this year, according to CNBC.
Industry experts highlight a new phase of competition, noting that China's electric vehicle market has moved from a price war to a battle over driver assistance features, according to Andrew Fan, Chief Financial Officer of lidar manufacturer Hesai.
Zeekr, listed on the U.S. stock exchange, is set to publish its quarterly results on Thursday. The company's shares have gained about 6 percent since the beginning of the year.
