Daimler and Baidu to extend automated driving alliance

German automaker Daimler stated it will deepen a partnership with China’s Baidu on automated driving and vehicle connectivity services.

Daimler and Baidu joined forces in April last year to develop Apollo, an automated driving platform, which has the motive of speeding up autonomous vehicle research and promoting the drafting of associated laws and regulations.

Both automakers are going to integrate Baidu’s connectivity services into the Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system, Daimler stated.

“Automated driving and connectivity are moving at an unprecedented rate in China, and our continued success relies not only on staying ahead of these times but on leading them,” Daimler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche stated.

Baidu Chief Executive Robin Li informed, “The automotive industry will evolve as per a drastically different logic, from vertical integration to a platform-based ecosystem, making now the optimal time for international automakers and tech companies to work together and deepen cooperation.”

Daimler is presently testing autonomous vehicles in Beijing, the automaker said.