BYD is set to integrate Huawei’s advanced smart driving system into its Fang Cheng Bao sub-brand’s upcoming Bao 8 model. This collaboration marks the first time BYD will utilize Huawei’s technology in the smart driving domain, according to a report by local media outlet LatePost.
The Bao 8 will be the inaugural model from Fang Cheng Bao to feature city NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) capabilities, powered by Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 3.0 system. This development follows the official unveiling of the Fang Cheng Bao brand on August 16, 2023, with the launch of its first model, the Bao 5 off-road SUV, on November 9, 2023. Deliveries for the Bao 5 commenced at the end of November 2023.
The Bao 8, originally slated for a third-quarter release, has been rescheduled to the fourth quarter of this year. The model is expected to be priced around RMB 500,000 ($69,680), positioning it against competitors like Great Wall Motor’s Tank 700 Hi4-T.
The Bao 8 will feature a LiDAR system, distinguishing it from the Bao 5, and is anticipated to leverage Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 3.0, which includes advanced smart driving features like city NOA. Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 3.0, launched in April, was first implemented in the Stelato S9 sedan in collaboration with Beijing Automotive Group (BAIC Group). It will also be integrated into the Luxeed S7 sedan and Aito SUV series from September, with further expansions planned for Dongfeng Motor’s Voyah brand and GAC Group’s Trumpchi brand by 2025.
This partnership represents BYD’s initial foray into smart driving technology with Huawei, following its previous engagements with growth-stage startups such as Momenta, Horizon Robotics, Black Sesame Technologies, DJI, and Hongjing Drive. BYD’s strategy involves diversifying its suppliers and controlling costs while avoiding over-reliance on a few partners. The company has over 4,000 R&D staff dedicated to smart driving solutions and aims to consolidate its resources and accelerate in-house development.
Fang Cheng Bao’s Bao 8 is intended to be a flagship model, enhancing the brand’s premium image. Despite strong initial sales for the Bao 5, recent deliveries have declined, leading Fang Cheng Bao to reduce the Bao 5’s pricing by RMB 50,000 as of July 29, 2024, to stimulate demand.
