Summary:
Deeproute.ai secures $100 million funding led by Great Wall Motor.
Deep cooperation with Nvidia to utilize the new Thor chip for advanced driving systems.
20,000 vehicles currently equipped with Deeproute's technology, expecting significant growth.
Focus on AI-driven systems without reliance on high-definition maps distinguishes Deeproute from competitors.
Growing importance of driver-assist technologies in the competitive Chinese automotive market.
Major Funding Announcement
Deeproute.ai, a startup based in Shenzhen, has successfully raised $100 million in funding from an undisclosed automaker, led by Great Wall Motor. This funding is a significant boost for the company as it develops advanced autonomous driving systems.
Collaboration with Nvidia
Deeproute.ai has established a close partnership with Nvidia, utilizing its Orin chip for its current driver-assist system. The startup is also among the first in China to acquire Nvidia’s latest Thor chip, set to enhance its technology with improved visual cue processing for more intricate driving scenarios.
CEO Insights
Maxwell Zhou, CEO of Deeproute.ai, emphasized that competition in autonomous driving in China is fundamentally a competition over AI capabilities. He highlighted the importance of Nvidia in their strategy, noting ongoing discussions with CEO Jensen Huang.
Market Position and Outlook
The startup currently boasts over 20,000 vehicles equipped with its systems on the road and anticipates that number could grow ten-fold in the next year. Deeproute.ai aims to collaborate with foreign automakers and is looking forward to participating in Japan’s auto show next year.
Competitive Landscape
Deeproute.ai's focus on AI-driven autonomous technology without relying on high-definition maps sets it apart from competitors like Tesla and Waymo. Zhou expressed optimism that Tesla’s entry into the Chinese market would stimulate interest in driver-assist features, benefiting Deeproute.ai’s visibility and competitiveness.
Industry Trends
The Chinese automotive sector is increasingly directing attention to driver-assist technologies as a means to remain competitive. Recent collaborations, such as Pony.ai and Beijing Automotive Group, underscore this trend towards autonomous vehicle development.
This article has been updated to clarify Deeproute's position in obtaining Nvidia's new Thor chip.
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