Chinese EV maker Xpeng reportedly plans to bring driver assistance features to Europe next year while pledging to adhere to the region’s stringent data protection rules.
Bloomberg reported the Guangzhou company aims to launch its so-called Navigation Guided Pilot in Europe by the end of 2024.
Xpeng will be “fully compliant” with European regulations, vice chairman Brian Gu told Bloomberg.
“We’re dedicated to provide the best technologies that we can develop and deliver to all customers globally, not just in China,” Gu said.
The report noted Chinese automakers moving into Europe have been forced to turn off some of the software features available to drivers in their home market due to data privacy concerns. Xpeng would start by deploying some autonomous driving capability on highways in Europe and work on providing additional features also in cities. It was working on specific commands important to local customers, including parallel parking.
Bloomberg noted Gu and CEO He Xiaopeng recently visited Volkswagen headquarters in Germany. Europe’s biggest carmaker has in July unveiled plans to invest US$700million in Xpeng and jointly develop EVs in China.
“The collaboration and project is progressing on track,” Gu said.
Gu added the loss making manufacturer had started cutting expenses across the company including in manufacturing processes, power trains and software, according to Bloomberg.
Xpeng has targeted a steady increase of its gross margin next year to help meet its goal of breaking even in 2025, Gu reportedly said.
