Ford Motor Co. and Chinese language search engine Baidu recently partnered to advance the development of and test autonomous vehicle in China.
The Baidu-Ford L4 Autonomous Vehicle Test Project will run for two years. Vehicles designed during the project will meet the Level 4 driving automation standard set by the Society of Automotive Engineers International.
Vehicles need to be capable of operating autonomously under specific weather conditions and within a specific geographic area. All vehicles are equipped with the Virtual Driver System.
Road testing in Beijing will begin before the end of the year.
The partnership is part of Ford’s strategy to advance and promote autonomous vehicle technologies.
“Working with a leading tech partner like Baidu allows us to leverage new opportunities in China to offer innovative solutions that improve safety, convenience and the overall mobility experience,” Sherif Marakby, president and CEO of Ford Autonomous Vehicles, said. “This project marks a new milestone in the partnership between Ford and Baidu, and supports Ford’s vision to design smart vehicles that transform how we get around.”
The testing will combine Ford’s vehicle expertise with Baidu’s knowledge of China and technological know-how, Zhenyu Li, Vice President and General Manager of Baidu’s Intelligent Driving Group, said.