Geely Launches 11 Low-Orbit Satellites For Driverless Cars

Leading Chinese automaker Geely Holding Group said on Saturday that it had launched 11 low-Earth orbit satellites. This batch of 11 satellites is the second that the company has sent out in an effort to increase its ability to improve the navigation system in self-driving cars.

The satellites were launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the southwest province of Sichuan, according to the company.

According to Reuters, Geely stated that it intends to increase the number of these satellites to 72 by 2025, with the ultimate goal being to have a constellation of 240 satellites.

The satellites will not only improve the precision of self-driving car positioning, but their network will also be used for other technology-related business operations, like connectivity to the consumer electronics industry. According to the company, its satellites have AI-powered remote sensing capabilities that guarantee clear, high-resolution remote sensing imagery at a range of 1 to 5 meters (3.2-16.4 feet).

For the record, China's satellite networks are still under military control, but in 2014 the government allowed private investors to participate in the space industry.

Since then, private companies have swiftly entered the market, some with assistance from local governments. While some are working on developing small launch vehicles like reusable rockets, the majority of them are focused on producing satellites. A proposal for a comprehensive satellite network for communication, remote sensing, and navigation is included in Beijing's most recent five-year plan for the years 2021–2025. According to official media, the nation currently has over 400 satellites in orbit, including those that are owned by businesses.