Volkswagen Group has unveiled its first self-developed, AI-powered Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) tailored specifically for the Chinese market.
This initiative is a significant component of the company’s “In China, for China” strategy, aiming to enhance its technological footprint within China.
Key features of the new ADAS
- Development and collaboration: The ADAS was developed by CARIZON, a joint venture between Volkswagen’s software arm, CARIAD, and China’s Horizon Robotics.
- Technological capabilities: Designed to handle complex urban and highway driving scenarios, the system offers Level 2++ automation, with plans to progress toward Level 3 autonomy.
- AI integration: The system utilizes GAIA, an AI-driven data platform that processes up to two terabytes of data per vehicle daily, accelerating development cycles and enhancing driving safety.
- Deployment timeline: Volkswagen plans to introduce this ADAS in a Volkswagen-brand model in China before the end of this year, with broader integration into compact models starting in 2026.
Top-level support
Ralf Brandstätter, CEO of Volkswagen Group China, says: “With our new ADAS system, we are demonstrating what is possible when strengths of Volkswagen are combined with local innovation.
“The system has been developed at ‘China speed’, fully tailored to the needs of our Chinese customers and will set a new benchmark in the market for driving performance, safety and quality.
“The rapid progress we have made reflects the outstanding capabilities of our joint venture CARIZON and the successful implementation of our ‘In China, for China’ strategy.”
Marcus Hafkemeyer, CEO of CARIZON, says: “With a team of 500 local ADAS experts and the consistent integration of AI in the development process, we have built an advanced ADAS system in a very short time—one that will deliver outstanding performance in driving performance and safety.
“This year, we will bring Level 2+ ADAS to the road. Level 2++ ADAS with Urban Navigate on Autopilot (NoA) is in advanced testing and will be launched in 2026.
“This will also enable us to lay the technological foundations for a fast-track evolution towards Level 3.”
Strategic implications
This development aligns with Volkswagen’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in China by localizing technology and catering to the specific needs of Chinese consumers.
By investing in local partnerships and focusing on AI-driven solutions, Volkswagen aims to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving Chinese automotive market.
