BYD to Make Advanced Driver-Assistance Features Standard in Most Models
Rolling Out Technology to Help Close Gap with Rivals
BYD, a Chinese automaker, will make its advanced driver-assistance system, God’s Eye, standard in most of its models, including its popular Seagull hatchback, at no additional cost to buyers. This move is part of the company’s bid to challenge Tesla and domestic rivals in China’s competitive electric-vehicle market.
God’s Eye to Be Integrated in Lower-Cost Models
The God’s Eye system, which uses cameras and radar sensors to assist drivers with features such as valet parking, adaptive cruising, and automated braking, will be integrated in vehicles priced from 100,000 yuan (S$18,540) in China. This move is expected to help BYD close the technology gap with more advanced rivals like Xpeng.
BYD Chairman’s Vision
"This year will be the first of intelligent driving for everybody," said BYD Chairman Wang Chuanfu. "It will become a must-have in the next two to three years, just as a seatbelt or airbag."
Key Features of God’s Eye System
First unveiled in 2023, God’s Eye relies on different cameras and radar sensors to assist drivers with features including:
- Valet parking
- Adaptive cruising
- Automated braking
China’s Embrace of Driver-Support Features
China, the world’s biggest car market, has embraced driver-support features like few other places, with most manufacturers providing technology that’s between level two and three – giving drivers certain degrees of support with tasks like steering and braking.
BYD’s Edge in the Market
BYD, which sold over four million cars last year, is betting on its scale, access to data, and its scores of software engineers for an edge. Vehicles with a similar system made by other brands typically retail for more than 150,000 yuan, while some manufacturers charge additional fees to have driver-assistance features enabled. God’s Eye will go into cars with a price tag of as low as 69,800 yuan.
Conclusion
BYD’s move to make God’s Eye standard in most of its models is a bold step to challenge its rivals in the competitive Chinese electric-vehicle market. With its focus on upgrading its powertrains and rolling out advanced driver-assistance features, BYD is poised to lead the market with its competitive pricing strategy.
FAQs
Q: What is God’s Eye?
A: God’s Eye is an advanced driver-assistance system that uses cameras and radar sensors to assist drivers with features such as valet parking, adaptive cruising, and automated braking.
Q: How much will God’s Eye cost?
A: God’s Eye will be integrated in vehicles priced from 100,000 yuan (S$18,540) in China, with some models available at a price tag of as low as 69,800 yuan.
Q: What is BYD’s target for 2023?
A: BYD aims to deliver as many as six million vehicles this year and has led a bruising price war that’s squeezed smaller rivals.
