China’s search engine giant Baidu is racing ahead. On Thursday it unveiled a new autonomous vehicle that it claims can drive just as well as a skilled human with more than 20 years of experience. Its $37,000 price is about half that of the previous model.
The new car will supposedly need no human intervention. It has autonomous Level 4 capabilities — two levels more advanced than the technology in widespread use. It will become available on Baidu’s ride-hailing service next year.
Robotaxi rides could cut the cost of taking a taxi in half, the company says. That low price point means the vehicles and fares are unlikely to become significant profit drivers. Nonetheless, Baidu is getting a valuable head-start.
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