With its new automotive division set to unveil a first prototype electric car before the end of this year, Xiaomi is filing patents at a furious pace. The latest one concerns the presence of cameras and sensors, with a view to developing a whole system of autonomous driving aids. After competing with Apple in the smartphone market, Xiaomi aims to go toe-to-toe with another US-based reference, Tesla, this time in the field of intelligent electric cars.
The Chinese National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) has published a new patent filed by Xiaomi, relating to autonomous driving. It reveals, among other things, the presence of two blocks of cameras and sensors placed on the roof of the car, in order to give a 360-degree view of the area and detect all other road users and various potential obstacles.
In total, Xiaomi has filed more than 800 automotive-related patents, an impressive number that hints at the ambition of this new player in the sector. It demonstrates the company's investment in the development of more or less autonomous driving systems. In addition to these patents, Xiaomi has also invested in many startups specialized in automatic driving software.
A bit of background: Xiaomi made its official entry into the electric car market in September 2021 with the creation of a dedicated subsidiary, Xiaomi EV. No less than four models are said to be already in the works, with the first of them, an SUV or sedan, due out as early as 2024. In the meantime, Xiaomi EV is expected to unveil a first prototype before the end of the year.
As a newcomer to the market, Xiaomi EV intends to go head to head with Tesla, but also with the many Chinese manufacturers already involved in the production of electric vehicles, such as Nio. Xiaomi is banking on its on-board technology and its autonomous driving features to make a difference. Check back in two years' time to see if its wager pays off.
