BYD Equips Affordable Models with Advanced Autonomous Driving Features
SHENZHEN/BEIJING - BYD, China's leading electric vehicle manufacturer, is introducing advanced autonomous driving features in its best-selling series of models, mirroring those found in premium Tesla cars. This move intensifies competition in the smart EV market.
The proprietary "God's Eye" driver-assistance system will be installed in all branded models priced above 100,000 yuan ($13,688), BYD founder Wang Chuanfu announced during a livestreamed event from Shenzhen. Notably, three models priced below 100,000 yuan, including the Seal 05 DM-i plug-in hybrid, will also receive the system.
BYD aims to launch sales of 21 new models equipped with "God's Eye," catering to a broader market segment. "We believe that good technology should be accessible to everyone," said Wang. "The popularization of smart driving must take care of everyone, ensuring that all can experience its benefits."
BYD's "God's Eye" system is currently available in models starting from $30,000, while Tesla offers similar features in its Chinese EVs priced from $32,000. By extending these features to its popular Dynasty and Ocean series, which sold nearly 4 million units in 2024, BYD can leverage economies of scale to reduce hardware and software costs.
This move aligns BYD with other Chinese EV brands, such as Baojun, MONA, and Leapmotor, in offering affordable EVs capable of autonomous highway driving under human supervision. This trend accelerates the adoption of AI-embedded technologies, intensifying the technology rivalry between China and the U.S.
Shares in BYD have shown a steady rise since February 6, following reports of the company's smart driving strategy announcement.