In the competitive landscape of China’s electric vehicle (EV) market, manufacturers that do not integrate Deepseek technology may face significant challenges in maintaining market share. Numerous automakers, ranging from industry leaders like BYD to newer startups, are implementing AI-powered Deepseek to enhance their vehicle’s smart features.
Phate Zhang, founder of the data analytics firm EV based in Shanghai, noted, “This development indicates that a new wave of competition is emerging, with companies striving to attract drivers and passengers through advanced chatbot capabilities.” He emphasized that vehicles lacking Deepseek are likely to lose market relevance.
Deepseek, a startup based in Hangzhou, has garnered global attention recently with the launch of two open-source AI models, V3 and R1. These models are cost-effective compared to other major language models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, positioning Deepseek as a significant player in the tech landscape while being a source of national pride for China.
Integrating Deepseek’s chatbot functionality into electric cars enhances safety and intelligence through advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Additionally, it offers improved entertainment options, addressing some common limitations of smart vehicles.
Recently, BYD announced plans to incorporate Deepseek into its Xuanji software, aiming to bolster its vehicle capabilities. The company also intends to provide complimentary self-driving services across most of its models. This integration of affordable AI technologies is expected to popularize self-driving features amidst rising competitive pricing.
Reports indicate that BYD plans to implement a domestic ADAS system across at least 21 models, with starting prices set at 69,800 yuan (approximately 246 million VND). This system will enable cars to navigate highways and perform automated parking.
Other major players, including Geely, Great Wall Motor, Chery Automobile, and SAIC Motor, are also planning to integrate Deepseek into their digital cockpit technologies to appeal to Chinese consumers.
According to an IDC report, Deepseek’s open-source model has captured the interest of global developers, fostering an exciting innovation ecosystem through community-driven optimization and security testing on platforms like GitHub.
Zhang Yongwei, Secretary General of a major non-governmental organization representing leading EV firms in China, projected that by 2025, approximately 15 million vehicles equipped with preliminary automatic steering systems will be available, constituting two-thirds of national car sales.
Zhao Zhen, a sales manager at Wan Zhuo Auto in Shanghai, commented, “Deepseek has emerged as a new source of national pride and is poised to help domestic manufacturers boost sales.” Analysts suggest the rush to adopt Deepseek technology reflects the intensifying competition within the electric vehicle market in China.
