Nissan Motor, Baidu ink MoU for cooperation in AI, intelligent car fields

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On April 25, Nissan (China) Investment Co., Ltd. ("NCIC") and Baidu Online Network Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd. ("Baidu") jointly inked an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding), under which the two parties are set to to conduct feasibility study on strategic collaboration in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and intelligent automobiles.

Under the MOU, both sides will leverage Nissan's intelligent platform and Baidu's strengths in generative AI to collaboratively develop future technological advancements and assess the feasibility of commercial cooperation in related sectors.

Photo credit: NCIC

Nissan will equip its vehicles in China with Baidu's AI solutions to tap into the potential of AI solutions. Both the automaker and the technology giant will actively promote research and cooperation, jointly exploring the application and development of innovative technologies in the future automotive industry. 

"Nissan's business plan 'The Arc' launched in March has clearly states our intention to 'expand strategic partnerships into the areas of technology, product portfolio, and software services.' Through our collaboration, Baidu's generative AI capabilities will be integrated into Nissan vehicles in China, further accelerating Nissan's intelligence and electrification initiatives," said Masashi Matsuyama, President of NCIC and VP of Nissan's OSO (Operational Strategic Office). 

According to the plan of Nissan, the Japanese automaker will introduce 8 new energy vehicle models to the Chinese market by the fiscal year 2026, providing more potential chances for the collaboration between Nissan and Baidu.

Wang Yunpeng, Vice President of Baidu Group and President of Baidu’s Intelligent Driving Group (IDG), stated, "By joining hands with Nissan this time, we will fully leverage Baidu's strengths in the field of artificial intelligence to help Nissan achieve new breakthroughs in its level of intelligence. At the same time, we will actively expand cooperation in overseas markets to jointly explore broader development opportunities."