Tesla's main competitor has already achieved success in charging technology. Now, it is evaluating a significant advancement in self-driving capabilities.

      BYD has openly expressed its intention to enhance its technological capabilities, focusing on everything from batteries to electric motors, and now even AI chips for advanced driver assistance systems. However, despite this progress, the company’s recent actions indicate it is not yet ready to sever ties with external chip manufacturers. Instead, BYD seems to be opting for a more pragmatic approach.

      A strategic pause before the final destination

      Recent reports from China reveal that the BYD Seal is currently undergoing testing with Horizon Robotics’ forthcoming Super Drive 2.0 platform. It has been noted that BYD Chairman Wang Chuanfu was seen assessing the system alongside Horizon Robotics CEO Yu Kai, suggesting that the software is approaching a more advanced development phase.

      BYD

      The emphasis is not just on incorporating new driving capabilities. Engineers are reportedly optimizing the interaction between the vehicle’s cameras and its central computing unit, enhancing performance from the current architecture before introducing a new hardware generation. This is significant as BYD has already showcased its own custom AI processor — the 4nm Xuanji A3 — which claims an impressive 700 TOPS of computing performance. Many had anticipated that this chip would swiftly replace third-party suppliers across the range, but that transition is not happening anytime soon.

      At times, patience is the smarter upgrade

      According to recent industry insights, BYD's in-house silicon is expected to start production in 2027, commencing with the premium Denza models. In the meantime, Horizon Robotics and other chip suppliers will continue to power numerous high-volume vehicles produced by the company. The rationale behind this choice is largely financial.

      BYD

      Utilizing established third-party processors reportedly reduces manufacturing costs by approximately 1,500 to 4,000 yuan per vehicle. When manufacturing vehicles at BYD's scale, these savings accumulate rapidly. Lower hardware expenses also facilitate the introduction of advanced driver assistance features into more budget-friendly models, rather than limiting them to high-end EVs. Additionally, Horizon has already provided millions of processors for BYD’s driver-assistance initiatives, which gives the automaker a robust supply chain poised for expansion without disturbing production.

      The wider chip competition is still very much ongoing. NVIDIA continues to lead the automotive AI segment, while Horizon Robotics has gradually increased its presence. BYD clearly aims to eventually engage in that sector with its own silicon. For the time being, however, the company appears more focused on delivering effective software to customers rather than hastening to demonstrate its ability to manage all aspects independently. This seems to be the more prudent strategy for consumers.

      Shimul is a contributor at Digital Trends, bringing over five years of experience in the technology field.

      Polestar compelled to withdraw from the US market. It's unfortunate that its refined designs will no longer be seen.

      Bland EVs have received a reprieve as Polestar exits the US

      Polestar, the Swedish electric vehicle brand owned by China’s Geely, has been denied approval under the US Connected Vehicle Rule, meaning it will not be able to sell vehicles in the US starting with the 2027 model year. The company will not vanish from American roadways immediately. Polestar has stated it will continue to sell the existing inventory of the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4, and current owners will still receive service support. Nevertheless, for future models, the opportunity is nearly closed unless circumstances change.

      The Wild West era of robotaxis is beginning to conclude

      New global regulations may replace a patchwork of rules with stricter safety standards for driverless fleets.

      The rules governing robotaxis have entered their initial global phase, with a UN vehicle standards forum adopting the first international framework for fully autonomous vehicles, establishing a common safety baseline for driverless fleets across major markets. This development comes as robotaxis advance from testing stages into more extensive commercial operations. In the US and China, private fleets more than doubled in 2025, reaching 8,000 vehicles across over two dozen major cities.

      Google Meet finally arrives on Android Auto, leaving you with one less reason to skip a meeting

      Android users can now participate in scheduled meetings and audio calls directly from their car's dashboard, catching up to the functionality that iPhone users have enjoyed for months.

      Android Auto has at last integrated Google Meet, several months after the video conferencing application launched on Apple CarPlay. Android users can now access scheduled meetings and contact recent numbers straight from their vehicle's display, eliminating the need to reach for their phone.