Tesla has released a new software upgrade for its in-car navigation system in China, enhancing the user experience with lane-level guidance. Announced on Tesla’s official WeChat account, the update displays lane markings on maps that correspond to actual road lanes. This feature aims to reduce drivers’ reliance on smartphone navigation apps while driving.
Baidu Maps, which has been Tesla’s map supplier since 2020, makes the lane-level guiding possible. Driving safety and navigation accuracy are greatly increased by Baidu’s most recent version, V20, which provides comprehensive road information and lane recommendations. With Tesla and Huawei among its clients, Baidu initially unveiled the V20 in April.
Chinese Tesla users have previously expressed dissatisfaction with the in-car navigation, citing a lack of detail compared to smartphone maps. This update addresses these concerns, providing a more robust and precise navigation tool directly integrated into Tesla vehicles.
In addition to these navigation improvements, Tesla is working on introducing its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software in China. This advanced system, which relies solely on cameras for autonomous driving, is currently undergoing regulatory approval processes. CEO Elon Musk hinted on Twitter that FSD might be available to Chinese customers soon.
Baidu’s involvement with Tesla extends to other partnerships, including with Huawei and the electric vehicle startup JiYue. This collaboration is part of Baidu’s broader strategy to advance autonomous driving technologies in China.