A Chinese EV giant is now offering free driver assistance tech on cars under $10,000

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🗞️ Driving the news: Chinese EV giant BYD has begun offering its advanced driver-assistance system, "God’s Eye," for free in models starting at just $9,555
• Previously available only in higher-end models, the feature enhances navigation and semi-autonomous driving
• The move has driven BYD’s stock to a record high, rising over 4% in Hong Kong trading

🔭 The context: The decision intensifies an ongoing price war in China’s competitive EV market, with analysts predicting further pressure on rivals like Tesla, Xpeng, and Geely Auto
• Tesla charges $99 per month or $8,000 for similar Full Self-Driving features in the U.S. but has yet to launch them in China
• BYD also announced plans to integrate DeepSeek, a Chinese AI rival to ChatGPT, into its vehicles

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: As more affordable EVs gain advanced driving technology, mass adoption of electric vehicles could accelerate, reducing reliance on fossil fuels
• BYD, which accounted for over 32% of China’s new energy vehicle sales in 2024, is driving competition that could lead to better, more affordable EVs globally
• Lower costs and smarter technology could make sustainable transportation more accessible

⏭️ What's next: Tesla and other automakers may need to rethink their pricing and technology strategies in China to remain competitive
• BYD’s aggressive pricing could further lower costs across the industry, benefiting consumers but squeezing profit margins
• The Chinese EV market remains the most dynamic and rapidly evolving in the world

💬 One quote: “2025 will be the first year of intelligent driving for all.” — Wang Chuanfu, BYD Chairman

📈 One stat: BYD captured over 32% of total new energy vehicle sales in China in 2024, leading the market

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