According to recent reports, Tesla has reached an agreement with Baidu to collaborate on maps and navigation in China, removing a key obstacle to the introduction of FSD in the country. Sources say the agreement will clear the final regulatory hurdles for Tesla’s FSD (Full Self-Driving) system to land in China.
Under regulations, all intelligent driving systems must obtain mapping qualifications before they can operate on public roads. Foreign companies need to cooperate with licensed domestic companies to obtain mapping qualifications. This cooperation means that Tesla will be authorized to legally operate its FSD software on Chinese roads, and its vehicles can collect surrounding data, such as road layout, traffic signs, and nearby buildings. It is reported that as part of the agreement, Baidu will also provide Tesla with a navigation system.
According to media reports, at the invitation of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Elon Musk arrived in Beijing on the afternoon of April 28. CCPIT President Ren Hongbin met with Musk to discuss further cooperation and other topics. On the evening of April 28, Premier Li Qiang met with Musk and said that China will continue to work hard to expand market access, strengthen service guarantees, and provide a better business environment for foreign-invested enterprises. On April 29, Musk’s private plane returned to the United States.
