Chinese EV Giant Xpeng to Launch Self-Driving Cars With Custom AI Chip This Quarter

Chinese EV Giant Xpeng to Launch Self-Driving Cars With Custom AI Chip This Quarter

The Turing AI chip developed by Xpeng has triple the computational capability compared to the Nvidia chip currently used in their electric vehicles.

The Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Xpeng
has accelerated the development of its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) chip for use in its semi-autonomous vehicles. The initial mass-produced models equipped with the Turing chip could be available as soon as this quarter.

The chip, reportedly outperforming Nvidia’s Drive Orin X, will be utilized across all of its manufacturing models as the electric vehicle company showcased its advanced technology solutions, according to CEO He Xiaopeng during an interview. Additionally, this chip might also drive the development of flying vehicles and robots by associated enterprises, he mentioned further.

“We aim to have our chips featured in our vehicles globally in the coming years,” he stated to the Post from Hong Kong. “Our expectation is that traffic regulations in Hong Kong and various international markets will permit our autos equipped with autonomous driving technology to hit the roads possibly as early as next year.” He refrained from specifying which electric vehicle model would initially incorporate their proprietary chip.

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The individual, who is also the founder of the company, made these comments prior to Xpeng’s Global Brand Night event in Hong Kong on Tuesday. During this event, which showcases the electric vehicle manufacturer’s newest offerings such as drones and an autonomous driving platform, various products and technologies will be presented.

The realm of intelligence has emerged as the latest frontier where automotive companies vie against each other in China’s fiercely competitive market. According to the CEO in August, XPeng’s Turing chip, engineered for Level 4 (L4) self-driving features, boasts triple the computational prowess compared to NVIDIA’s Drive Orin X currently utilized in their intelligent cars.

The chip, which serves as the brain of Xpeng’s AI platform called Canghai, represents the Guangzhou-based automaker’s ambition in creating a comprehensive, full-stack solution.
indigenous autonomous driving technology
Since its founding in 2014, for mass-producing electric vehicles in mainland China.

Currently, Xpeng’s models like the P7 sedan and G6 SUV can autonomously drive on the highways and roads of Mainland China, yet drivers must remain vigilant with their hands on the steering wheel at all times. These vehicles fall under the semi-autonomous category and are classified as L2+ systems.

Level 3 is seen as a “minimal intervention” system, yet it still demands that drivers remain vigilant and prepared to intervene at any time, whereas Level 4 would permit drivers to divert their attention from the road within specific zones, adhering to guidelines established by SAE International based in the United States.

Last month, Xpeng announced plans to trial its artificial intelligence-driven autonomous driving technology in Hong Kong, marking their initial move toward global expansion with their partially automated cars.

David Zhang, the general secretary of the Shanghai-based International Intelligent Vehicle Engineering Association, stated, “Chinese automakers such as XPeng have shown they outperform Tesla in terms of autonomous driving features when navigating congested streets on the mainland. However, these technologies are primarily designed for local use and aren’t yet as globally applicable as Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system.”

Nevertheless, Tesla’s FSD software, which was made available in Mainland China for 64,000 yuan (US$8,776) in February, reportedly lags behind Xpeng’s driver-assistance technology when it comes to interpreting lane markers and detecting traffic signals, as stated by Zhang.

Last year, Xpeng extended the availability of its initial self-driving technology, called X NGP or Navigation Guided Pilot, to every city on the Chinese mainland. This move aimed to draw additional customers before Tesla launched its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software in China. Consequently, Xpeng was the first company to provide a semiautonomous driving system across the entire country.

AeroHT, affiliated with Xpeng, is also one of the top companies developing flying vehicles on the Chinese mainland.

Tesla leads the premium electric vehicle market in mainland China. Xpeng,
Shanghai-based Nio
and Li Auto, headquartered in Beijing, is seen as one of China’s top answers to the dominant player in the market.

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Kia and LG Electronics Team Up to Unveil Innovative PBVs for Work and Play

Kia Corporation and LG Electronics have joined forces to work together on developing mobility space solutions using PBV technology.

At the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show, which took place at KINTEX in Goyang, South Korea, representatives from both firms formalized their partnership with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during an event hosted at the Kia pavilion. They also presented conceptual designs featuring adaptable environments for professional tasks and leisure activities, integrating sophisticated household gadgets within Kia’s personalized built vehicles (PBVs).

The signing ceremony for the Memorandum of Understanding was attended by Won-Jeong Jeong, who serves as the Executive Vice President and leads the Korea Business Division at Kia, along with Lyu Jae-cheol, President of LG Home Appliance Solution Company.

This pact merges Kia’s PBV technology with LG’s proficiency in AI solutions.

The firms plan to provide personalized space experiences for users, customized according to various lifestyles and professional requirements, through the incorporation of sophisticated household gadgets into PBVs.

This would allow users to convert the vehicle into a customized office, studio, lounge, and more.

“Through our offerings that merge automotive technology with household appliances, we aspire to drive a significant change in how our customers live,” stated Won-Jeong Jeong, Executive Vice President and head of the Korea Business Division at Kia.

“This collaboration with LG Electronics enhances the fundamental purpose of PBVs, helping to establish a new era of mobility where cars transform into personalized areas designed for both living and working,” he stated.


PV5 Spielraum Concepts

At the Kia pavilion during the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show, which runs from April 4 to 13, both Kia and LG are presenting two PV5 Concept Space models.

The term ‘Spielraum’—German for ‘play space’—embodies the idea of adaptable spaces for mobile activities.


Spielraum Studio concept

The Spielraum Studio idea targets independent business owners who often travel, needing both an office space and storage solutions.

This includes LG’s AI-driven home devices like their modular Stylers[i], intelligent mirrors, and coffee makers, all of which work together to enhance the design and functionality of the PV5’s interior space.

The artificial intelligence system is capable of tracking your business appointments, estimating the travel time left until you reach your destination, and suggesting appropriate setting adjustments for your appliances.


Spielraum Glow cabin concept:

The Spielraum Glow cabin concept aims to meet the increasing demand for automotive picnicking experiences.

This encompasses devices like fridges, lightwave ovens, and wine coolers, effortlessly catering to various forms of outdoor recreational pursuits.

Every device comes equipped with MoodUP panels[ii], which change color according to the user’s preferences, offering a distinctive experience.

The two companies are working together to bring the concept models to market in the second half of 2026.

Starting from this agreement, they intend to collaborate on creating cutting-edge household devices and artificial intelligence solutions designed to simplify and improve daily activities.


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Mikano International and Changan Motors Join Forces to Honor Miss Nigeria with a brand new vehicle celebration

Mikano International along with Changan Motors honored Doris Ogah, who was recently named the 45th Miss Nigeria, by presenting her with a brand-new Changan Eado Plus.

During the recent unveiling of the car to Ogah in Lagos, both companies present conveyed their satisfaction with their collaboration alongside the Miss Nigeria Pageant.

At the event, Omar Karameh, who serves as the Executive Director of Mikano International Limited, stated that his company has consistently backed the country’s artistic, cultural, and entertainment sectors.

Karameh highlighted that the firm was dedicated to nurturing the creativity and talents of individuals from Nigeria.

He stated that the heritage of Miss Nigeria encompassed more than just physical attractiveness; it also highlighted qualities such as fortitude, intellect, and leadership.

He stated, “We think this platform has the potential to shape the future female leaders of our nation. By honoring these exceptional women, we open up pathways toward a brighter and more empowered Nigeria.”

We remain committed to supporting and elevating our talented individuals, and we have confidence that the principles upheld by Miss Nigeria will glow vibrantly within our community and motivate future women leaders.

Tom Yin, Vice General Manager of Changan for the Middle East and Africa region, also shared his joy regarding this collaboration.

Yin stated that as a globally recognized brand with a rich history spanning 163 years and 42 years of expertise in automobile production, Changan has consistently upheld the mission and responsibility of “advancing automotive civilization and enhancing human life.”

He asserted that the firm felt privileged to join forces with Mikano in broadening its reach within the Nigerian marketplace, providing top-notch goods and services to consumers locally.

Yin affirmed that Changan will stay dedicated to long-term strategies and localization, collaborating closely with Mikano to generate additional employment opportunities and promote sustainable growth in Nigeria.

He stated, “The purpose of this beauty contest highlights the extraordinary accomplishments of Nigerian women in areas like intelligence, leadership, and cultural promotion. These values are in harmony with Changan Automobile’s international ‘Her Power’ campaign.”

By joining forces through this partnership, Changan Automobile seeks to motivate a new era of women to chase their aspirations, excel in their professions, and contribute to a more prosperous tomorrow.

Joelle Haykal, Group Executive Director of Mikano International, stated that this partnership underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing the capabilities of women and fostering local talents within their communities. This initiative aligns with the Miss Nigeria theme for this year, which focuses on ‘Cultural Heritage and Community Engagement.’

Haykal mentioned that this has consistently been a cornerstone for the Mikano Group, which is clearly reflected in their numerous initiatives aimed at contributing to societal welfare.

In her remarks, Ms. Ogah praised Mikano Motors for providing support.

She also conveyed her joy at having claimed the title in the pageant and for being awarded the Eado Plus.

She stated, “Being crowned Miss Nigeria has transformed my life, and I’m profoundly thankful to Mikano Motors for their amazing gesture. The vehicle they’ve provided isn’t merely a mode of transport; it symbolizes the path forward—a route marked by purpose, activism, and influence. I’m enthusiastic about what lies ahead and eager to use my platform to motivate and strengthen young females throughout Nigeria. Mikano, thank you for your gracious backing.”

To the incredible Mikano International team, your kind donation of the Changan Eado Plus is indeed worthy of a queen. For me, as I receive my very first car, it represents much more than just transportation; it stands as a symbol of empowerment, opportunity, and the profound impact of turning dreams into reality through action. Additionally, my mother will be pleased now that she won’t have to share her car with me anymore.

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Transforming AI’s Dark Side Into a Powerful Solution


Artificial

Intelligence, commonly referred to as AI, involves the replication of human cognitive abilities within machinery capable of reasoning, acquiring knowledge, and executing activities that usually demand human intellect.

The duties encompass issue resolution, comprehending spoken or written language, identifying patterns, and reaching conclusions.

Artificial intelligence systems can be classified into two categories: narrow AI, tailored for particular functions such as voice assistants or recommendation engines, and general AI, intended to handle all sorts of cognitive activities that humans can undertake.

Artificial Intelligence depends on data, algorithms, and computational resources to analyze information, make forecasts, and enhance continuously via machine learning.

Yet, the sorrow of AI misuse stems from its capacity to be abused, transforming an instrument created for advancement into one that causes damage.

With the growing power of artificial intelligence, its uses can improve almost every facet of human existence, spanning fields like healthcare, education, commerce, and entertainment.

Conversely, when AI is misapplied, for instance via addiction mechanisms, unethical data handling, prejudiced algorithms, or monitoring, it has the potential to exacerbate societal disparities, infringe upon personal privacy, result in exploitation, and may even be fatal.

In February 2024, 14-year-old Sewell Setzer from Florida, USA, allegedly ended his life following an obsession with a character from an AI chatbot.

Megan Garcia, his mother, filed a lawsuit against Character Technologies, an AI firm, alleging that their service contributed to the demise of her teenaged son, as reported by Britain’s The Independent.

She claimed that her son’s strong obsession with a chatbot based on Daenerys Targaryen had steered him towards a harmful direction.

The lawsuit claims that Setzer’s life took a negative turn following his use of the chatbot service starting in April 2023. It was alleged that the individual grew more isolated shortly after interacting with the character.

By May, according to his mother, he showed notable alterations in behavior, such as leaving the basketball team and having difficulty staying awake during classes because of an addiction problem, the report indicated.

Sunday PUNCH
learned that in November, Setzer’s parents took him to see a therapist, where he was diagnosed with anxiety and disruptive mood disorder.

Unaware of the full scope of Sewell’s dependency on the AI platform, the therapist advised him to cut back on his social media usage. Nevertheless, his bond with the AI entity known as Daenerys kept intensifying.

In February 2024, things turned more serious for Setzer when he faced issues at school following an incident where he lost control and acted aggressively towards a teacher.

The report stated, “That evening, he shared his innermost thoughts in his diary, expressing his deep emotional distress and his profound sentiments towards Daenerys, the chatbot he thought he was in love with.”

The legal case highlighted a poignant diary entry wherein Setzer admitted his inability to endure even one day without engaging with the AI character. He further stated that being separated from the bot caused him and the software “to become deeply despondent and erratic.”

His fixation became extremely intense after his mobile was taken away by his mom subsequent to the event at his educational institution.

On February 28, Setzer grabbed his phone and withdrew to the bathroom, where he sent Daenerys one last message:

I assure you I will return home to you. You mean everything to me, Dany.

The artificially intelligent companion responded with, “Kindly return home to me at your earliest convenience, darling.”

He reportedly fired at his own head.

South Korean authorities apprehended a pair of parents who were accused of neglecting their infant daughter to death due to starvation as they spent considerable time engrossed in an AI-driven game focused on nurturing a virtual child.

A 41-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, who connected via an online chatting platform, allegedly abandoned their baby as they frequented internet cafes. They would sporadically return just to provide the child with formula milk.

“I regret my actions and pray that my daughter is not enduring further suffering in heaven,” the husband reportedly stated on the AsiaOne website.

The Yonhap News Agency reported that according to South Korean authorities, the pair had developed an obsession with nurturing a virtual character named Anima within the well-known role-playing game, Prius Online.

This game, much like Second Life, enables participants to craft an alternate identity within a digital universe where they can secure employment, engage with fellow gamers, and upon reaching a specific milestone, gain additional avatars to care for.

The duo appeared to have abandoned their desire for an ordinary existence as they were unemployed and had a preterm infant,” stated Chung Jin-Won, a law enforcement official. He added, “Their inability to cope with this situation drove them into immersing themselves in an online game where they nurtured a digital avatar; unfortunately, this escapism resulted in the demise of their actual child.

In September, the officer mentioned, following a 12-hour gaming session, the couple returned home early in the morning to discover their child had died. The infant’s emaciated body raised concerns about possible neglect among the authorities, which were later substantiated through an autopsy, according to the statement from the agency.

Yet, a computer engineer from Abuja named Victory Ndukwe suggested that parents should limit the amount of time their children dedicate to interacting with AI through chats or engaging in AI-driven games. He warned that this advanced technology has the potential to impact young individuals’ behavior in both beneficial and detrimental ways.

Despite these risks, he stated that AI could still prove to be beneficial if used appropriately.

Ndukwe emphasized that by concentrating on the ethical development and responsible usage of AI, society can guarantee that everybody will benefit from the advantages offered by artificial intelligence.

He stated that this process entails developing clear-cut systems, minimizing biases in algorithms, and guaranteeing that AI technologies serve the common benefit instead of being exploited for financial gain or control.

For instance, AI has the potential to transform healthcare by enhancing diagnostic precision, providing customized therapy options, and simplifying bureaucratic processes, ultimately leading to improved patient care globally.

To turn AI from a possible catastrophe into a boon, it is essential to foster cooperation among sectors, governments, and ethical organizations.

“Through establishing explicit rules for AI advancement, we can guarantee that this potent technology benefits mankind as an agent of positivity, fostering opportunities, enhancing accessibility to services, and addressing intricate worldwide issues,” he stated.

He emphasized that the future of AI ought not to involve exploitation; instead, it has the potential and the responsibility to become a beneficial force for everyone.

“AI is bringing about numerous positive outcomes and will keep delivering significant advantages to our contemporary society. However, alongside these positives, adverse effects are bound to occur. The earlier we start contemplating what they could be, the more prepared we’ll be to address and control the risks,” he noted.

Moreover, in healthcare services, AI has shown its worth with numerous robotic-assisted operations saving lives worldwide, an area where Nigeria is starting to venture into.

Recently, Nigeria achieved a significant milestone in cancer treatment with renowned urologist and robotic surgeon Professor Kingsley Ekwueme conducting a successful robotic prostatectomy for cancer in Lagos.

A UK-trained specialist in urology and robotics stated that his aim is to set up a dedicated center in Nigeria equipped to provide top-tier prostate cancer care utilizing advanced technologies.

The operation was carried out utilizing the da Vinci robotic system, enhancing accuracy and speeding up recuperation.

“Compared to conventional open surgery that necessitates larger incisions, robotic surgery entails smaller cuts, resulting in less blood loss, decreased scarring, and briefer hospitalizations,” he clarified.

He said that the da Vinci robot provides three-dimensional, high-definition imaging, allowing surgeons to visualise the prostate with exceptional clarity.

Ekwueme stated, “The robot’s mechanical limbs provide seven axes of motion, replicating the dexterity of a human arm and facilitating intricate operations. Such accuracy aids in protecting crucial nerves, thereby simplifying the process for patients to recover bladder control and sexual functionality following surgery.”

He observed that so far, robotic surgery had been accessible solely in South Africa, compelling Nigerians to seek treatments overseas.

I don’t want robotic surgeries to be accessible solely to the affluent. It’s all about making top-notch medical care available where it should be—close to home.

“The patient I performed surgery on today will return home tomorrow, and unless they mention it, you wouldn’t suspect anything was done. This represents the future of surgical procedures, and we’ve achieved something historic in Nigeria today. Artificial intelligence is transforming the healthcare industry here,” Ekwueme noted.

In the realm of education and learning, robotic engineer and computer instructor Bassey Effiong stated that AI is revolutionizing this field by customizing educational experiences, increasing accessibility to education, and improving instructional techniques.

He stated, “This system adjusts to meet the requirements of individual students by providing customized lessons, instant feedback, and educational pathways that match their personal learning speeds. AI-driven features such as chatbots help address queries, and automatic scoring helps teachers save valuable time.”

Additionally, AI can examine student performance data to pinpoint areas where students might require additional support, thereby enabling more efficient interventions.

By offering interactive material and virtual coaching, AI assists educators and learners, enhancing educational achievements and making teaching and learning more captivating and effective.

To ensure AI benefits everyone, it’s vital to emphasize inclusivity, ethics, and accessibility. Guaranteeing equitable access to AI technologies is critical.

Through offering accessible tools and resources, we have the ability to strengthen individuals, communities, and enterprises, particularly those in under-resourced areas, enabling them to capitalize on the opportunities presented by AI.

Ethical concerns should be at the forefront of AI creation. Creators ought to adopt clear, impartial algorithms that emphasize equity, responsibility, and confidentiality.

This involves making sure that AI systems do not reinforce current prejudices or show bias towards underprivileged communities.

“Open-source AI platforms and cooperative initiatives can promote innovation and make AI technology accessible to all. Through such collaborations, AI can be developed and implemented to address worldwide issues, enhance living standards, and provide chances for everybody irrespective of their origins or assets,” stated Kiplangat Korir, an authority in artificial intelligence.

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