BAIC Group, DiDi expand cooperation to high-level autonomous car R&D

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- BAIC Group and Didi Chuxing (DiDi)'s autonomous driving subsidiary signed on June 19 a framework agreement to have an in-depth cooperation on fields of automobile, AI and car sharing, according to a post on BAIC's WeChat account.

The agreement makes BAIC Group the only domestic automaker that forges strategic partnership with DiDi's autonomous driving company. With the aim of boosting the commercial application of autonomous driving technologies in China, both parties will make joint efforts to develop bespoke high-level autonomous vehicles.

(Photo source: BAIC Group's WeChat account)

The cooperative focus will be placed on developing "the autonomous driving with level 4 features or above and smart mobility service", and “jointly fostering the practical usage of innovative technologies in relevant local industries,” according to the agreement.

(Photo source: BAIC Group's WeChat account)

As one of Chinese automakers at the forefront of ICV domain, BAIC Group launched a five-year plan dubbed “DOLPH-in + Strategy” to press ahead with its development of ICV business. The Strategy focuses on five aspects—defending security as priority, optimizing consumer experience, liberating arms, legs, eyes and brains, providing personalized scenarios, harmonizing the whole ecosystem.

(Photo source: DiDi)

In last August, DiDi hived off its autonomous driving unit as a separate company run by CTO Zhang Bo. The subsidiary is teaming up with DiDi's Xiaoju Automobile Solutions and DiDi Finance on exploring the integrated solutions for future mobility services, including the building of smart charging piles, fleet maintenance and insurance.

On May 29, DiDi announced it had closed a fundraising round of over $500 million for its autonomous driving arm, which was led by SoftBank Vision Fund 2.

Apart from autonomous driving, BAIC Group and DiDi announced in Jan. 2019 the launch of their joint venture, Jingju New Energy Vehicle Technology Co.,Ltd., whose line of businesses includes the development of NEV-related technologies and software, and the information system integration service.

In April 2018, DiDi kicked off the DiDi Auto Alliance co-formed with 31 companies from the automotive industry. Still, BAIC Group was one of the partners.