Baidu and BMW to conduct tests of automated driving technology this year

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai July 28) - Automated driving technology is taking another step closer to mass market penetration, as a report appearing on the National Business Daily today showed. According to the report, BMW China has announced that it is cooperating with Chinese Internet search provider Baidu to conduct automated driving technology on-road test trials within the year.

Baidu aims to use its visual identification technology, cloud computing and mapping tools to help improve driverless technology. According to BMW, combining BMW’s sensor technology with Baidu’s Internet services will help power the core of future driverless technology. Mapping technology can help locate the best route, while imaging technology will play a crucial role in helping identify what is on the road ahead. BMW China was ardent in pointing out both companies leading positions’ in their respective fields.

Baidu is joining a growing list of Internet service companies that are aiming to expand into the field of remote driving technology, including Google, Alibaba and LeTV. This marks a trend towards the increasing importance of Internet-related technology in the Chinese automotive market. Internet service companies, for their part, want to take advantage of the advent of new driverless technology, which will free up consumers to make use of their products and services.

According to a recent study, 94% of Chinese passengers are inclined to accept onboard Internet services on their vehicles. This may be one indication that Chinese drivers are much more willing to accept automated driving technology on their automobiles.