Chinese search engine Baidu and American electric vehicle maker Tesla have reached a deal that will increase the chances of a full Self-driving (FSD) launch in China.
According to reports, Baidu has agreed to let Tesla use its mapping license, giving its business partner access to China’s public roads for data collection. The automaker will use this information to launch FSD in the country, achieving Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s goal of scaling the brand’s driver-assistance services.
A mapping license is required for all proprietors of an intelligent driving system in China, with foreign brands required to partner with domestic companies in ownership of a license. Musk is also seeking FSD approval from the Chinese government, which he must convince to allow Tesla to transfer data to its servers in the U.S. The tech entrepreneur recently traveled overseas to meet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang for this purpose.
The electric vehicle brand is currently facing an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration over concerns a previous recall of its less advanced driver assistance system, Autopilot, left key safety concerns unaddressed. Tesla is planning the launch of a self-driving robotaxi in limited U.S. markets later this year.
