Chinese automaker Chery plans to introduce a smart driving system on its entry-level models, following a similar move by rival BYD, local media outlet Xinliu Auto reported on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
The system, based on the Qualcomm 8620 platform, is expected to debut in Chery’s all-electric Little Ant, a budget-friendly model currently priced from RMB 59,900 ($8,270) in China. The updated Little Ant will support highway Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) and memory parking functions, positioning it as a competitor to BYD’s Seagull Smart Driving Edition, according to the report.
See also: BYD to Roll Out ‘God’s Eye’ Autonomous Features to More Affordable EVs
BYD announced its vehicle intelligence strategy on February 10, pledging to integrate smart driving features across its entire lineup, including models priced below RMB 100,000. The company launched Smart Driving Edition updates for 21 models, with the Seagull being the most affordable, priced between RMB 69,800 and RMB 85,800.
Chery’s plan could make smart driving technology accessible to vehicles under RMB 60,000, further intensifying competition in China’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle (EV) market. The company aims to leverage the Qualcomm 8620 platform to differentiate itself from BYD with a cost-effective approach, Xinliu Auto reported.
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Industry analysts expect 2025 to mark a turning point for smart driving in China, with automakers focusing on data ecosystems and user experience as key areas of competition.
Chery, one of China’s largest automakers, sold a record 2.6 million vehicles in 2024, surpassing RMB 480 billion in revenue for the first time. The company’s new energy vehicle (NEV) sales surged 232.7% year-on-year to 583,569 units, while exports increased 21.4% to 1.14 million vehicles, according to data released on January 1.
See also: Hesai Technology Partners with Chery Automobile for Lidar Integration in Future Models
