Tesla has begun rolling out a new infotainment software update in China that introduces ByteDance’s Doubao large language model to its in-car voice assistant, marking the company’s first integration of a third-party AI model in locally sold vehicles.
The 2026.14.13 software update started rolling out in batches on July 31 and is available for Tesla’s Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X vehicles in China.
Doubao AI Enhances Voice Interaction
The update integrates ByteDance’s Doubao AI model to power Tesla’s voice assistant, enabling more natural conversations and expanded interactive capabilities.
According to Tesla, the assistant can provide real-time information, support multiple voice options and work with personalized personas.
“It doesn’t just chat — it can also sing, debate and tell stories. Time on the road, even driving alone, no longer feels lonely.”
Access to the AI-powered assistant requires Tesla’s Premium Connectivity subscription, which is priced at 9.99 yuan ($1.47) per month in China.
For now, the new assistant is limited to conversational functions and cannot control vehicle features. The update applies to vehicles equipped with HW 3.0 and earlier hardware rather than Tesla’s latest AI4 platform.
Part of Tesla’s China Localization Strategy
The software update represents another step in Tesla’s effort to strengthen its in-car digital experience for Chinese customers, where domestic electric vehicle manufacturers have rapidly expanded AI-powered voice assistants and smart cockpit capabilities.
Tesla previously partnered with ByteDance’s cloud computing unit, Volcengine. Documentation released for the Model Y L last year indicated that Tesla planned to use both Doubao and DeepSeek, with Doubao supporting voice commands and vehicle interaction while DeepSeek would provide conversational AI functions.
Outside China, Tesla has adopted Grok, the large language model developed by Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, for its in-car AI features.
Alibaba’s Qwen Also Reportedly Under Testing
Separately, Chinese media outlet China Star Market reported that Alibaba’s Qwen large language model is undergoing advanced testing in Tesla vehicles in China.
According to the report, Qwen has completed extensive real-world vehicle testing and is expected to support functions including voice interaction, vehicle controls, navigation and task execution if deployed.
Source: CnEVPost
