China’s biggest electric vehicle (EV) maker BYD is set to integrate Deepseek’s AI software into its cars, and roll out advanced self-driving tech on the majority of its models, including the cheaper offerings.

Chinese AI startup DeepSeek sent shockwaves through the US tech sector in late January when it soared to the top of the Apple Store’s download charts with its advanced artificial intelligence app that was developed at a fraction of the cost of its Western competitors.

Other major Chinese automakers, such as GWM, Geely and Leapmotor, are also set to integrate Deepseek’s software into their cars, AFP reported.

BYD said the Deepseek integration would not only help create a more personalised experience for car occupants, but it is also expected to help improve the firm’s advanced driver assistance technology.

On that note, BYD has also announced plans to equip over 20 of its models with its “God’s Eye” semi-autonomous driving system, including its Seagull entry-level hatchback, which has a starting price of just 69,800 yuan (R180,000).

The God’s Eye system is available in various guises, with the lower end version still packing 12 cameras and 17 radar sensors, and the more advanced iterations also including a Lidar sensor.

"Autonomous driving is no longer a remote rarity, it's a... necessary tool," BYD founder Wang Chuanfu said on Monday. He predicted that this advanced technology would soon become as indispensable as seat belts or airbags.

Industry analysts believe this latest move on the part of BYD could start a new tech war among the Chinese vehicle manufacturers.

The Chinese auto giant saw its electric vehicle sales surge in 2024, coming close to the world's biggest EV maker Tesla, with 1.77 million global sales versus the American carmaker's 1.8 million.

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BYD to integrate Deepseek AI into its cars, democratise advanced driving tech

BYD electric vehicle maker sees sales surge in 2024