February 6, 2025
Geely Auto made headlines as the first automaker to announce a deep integration of its self-developed “StarCore” AI system with DeepSeek-R1. The collaboration leverages “distillation training” to optimize Geely’s vehicle control and interactive models, enabling precise interpretation of user intent, proactive scenario-based services (e.g., adjusting air conditioning or initiating maintenance alerts), and access to over 2,000 vehicle interfaces. This move triggered an 8% surge in Geely’s stock price.
February 7, 2025
Hot on Geely’s heels, Lantu (a subsidiary of Dongfeng Motor) declared its “Xiaoyao Cockpit” would be the first production model to fully integrate DeepSeek. Starting February 14, Lantu Zhiyin owners will receive an OTA update introducing features like multi-semantic voice commands, AI-generated poetry/art, and real-time information retrieval. Lantu also plans to deploy DeepSeek in its Dreamer MPV, aiming to redefine in-car interaction.
February 8, 2025
The DeepSeek wave intensified as Dongfeng Motor, Great Wall Motors, IM Motors, and Baojun announced integrations:
- Dongfeng: Completed full-series DeepSeek integration across brands like M-Hero and eπ, with OTA updates rolling out by April 2025.
- Great Wall: Successfully tested DeepSeek in its CoffeeAgent system, enhancing AI-driven cockpit experiences.
- IM Motors: Developed a multi-scenario AI platform by combining DeepSeek with other models like Doubao.
- Baojun: Integrated DeepSeek into its Lingyu Cockpit, with plans to expand to upcoming models like Yunhai.
Zeekr (Geely’s premium EV brand) also revealed its Kr AI model had fused with DeepSeek-R1, aiming to refine user intent prediction.
February 9–10, 2025
Li Auto and XPeng hinted at exploring DeepSeek for autonomous driving, with XPeng’s CEO He Xiaopeng hailing DeepSeek as a “game-changer” that could surpass the impact of electrification.
FAW-Volkswagen announced DeepSeek’s deployment in its AI-powered marketing platform, covering 1,000+ dealer accounts to streamline sales operations.
Leapmotor revealed its C-series models would feature a DeepSeek-enhanced cockpit, boosting natural language processing and multi-command responsiveness.
Meanwhile, BYD took a divergent path, launching its self-developed “Eye of Heaven” advanced driving system, targeting affordability by bringing L4-like features to budget models.
Homogenized AI features and data security risks could emerge as multiple brands adopt similar DeepSeek-powered solutions. While Geely and Dongfeng embrace partnerships, BYD and Changan are doubling down on in-house R&D, setting the stage for a clash between “open” and “closed” AI strategies.
