New NVIDIA Drive Thor Chip Tech Powers BYD’s AI & Self-Driving Functions

Nvidia has announced new partnerships with BYD and a number of Chinese automakers, all of whom are working to improve self-driving function and AI-augmented infotainment systems in order to compete globally.

BYD, which surpassed Tesla's global sales volume in Q4 2023 income, will integrate Nvidia's next generation of in-vehicle chips, dubbed Drive Thor, beginning from 2025 in order to improve the autonomous driving abilities and other virtual functionalities of their cars.

Furthermore, Danny Shapiro, Nvidia's Vice President for Automotive, stated that BYD could use Nvidia's technology to optimise production methods, streamline the delivery chain, and create virtual showrooms.

Several Chinese automakers, including Xpeng, GAC Aion, Zeekr, Li Auto, and several autonomous truck developers, have also committed to using Nvidia's Drive Thor chip technology.

One key reason why most Chinese automakers are increasingly turning to Nvidia chip technology to boost their global competitiveness via brand association. When competing with non-Chinese marques such as Tesla in markets like Southeast Asia and Europe, the brand association aspect is becoming more prevalent.

In addition to the above direct automotive collaborations, Nvidia has also partnered with Cerence, a US software programme company, to adapt large language model artificial intelligence systems for in-car computing.

Source: Yahoo Finance