XPeng Inc. XPEV reportedly plans to introduce a new model, known internally as F57, in the fourth quarter.
This model will eliminate the use of LiDAR technology, reported CnEV Post.
The new model will not incorporate LiDAR technology, the report read, citing a source familiar with the matter. Instead, its smart driving system will transition to a pure vision solution similar to Tesla, Inc. TSLA.
Tesla’s assisted driving system has never utilized LiDAR technology from its inception.
In China, all domestic electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, except Jiyue, incorporate LiDAR capabilities in their most advanced versions of smart driving software.
The decision to eliminate LiDAR in an upcoming new model marks a significant shift for Xpeng, especially since the company was the first globally to integrate LiDARs into production vehicles.
On September 15, 2021, Xpeng launched the P5 electric sedan, which included two LiDARs in its top-trim variant.
Following the P5, subsequent models such as the facelifted P7 (P7i), as well as newer releases like the G6, G9, and X9, all featured dual LiDAR systems, CnEV Post reported.
However, Xpeng’s chairman and CEO, He Xiaopeng, appears to have reservations about LiDAR technology.
In a September 2021 interview with local media, he likened the importance of LiDAR to that of cameras, emphasizing that from a perception standpoint, cameras are akin to how humans observe the world with their eyes, the report read.
Recently, during a visit to the U.S., Mr. He had the opportunity to experience Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology.
He praised Tesla’s software, noting its excellent performance in Silicon Valley and on highways, it added.
Price Action: XPEV shares are trading higher by 0.54% to $7.49 premarket at last check Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Shutterstock
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