Self-driving car companies are extending their reach to a new territory — China, the world’s largest auto market.
Chinese companies are investing heavily in the vehicles’ technology, with their investments increasing to $12.7 billion in 2017, a 17 percent increase from the previous year, according to Reuters.
Eight Chinese tech firms made funding announcements last month, signing on to provide the majority of funding for US ridesharing firm nuTonomy’s development of autonomous shuttles.
Chinese autonomous car company Chuanzhong Technology is scheduled to unveil its prototype mini-bus in October and will be going on sale by 2020, with prices between 3,600 to 6,800 yuan per car, reports Reuters. Chuanzhong’s claims “guaranteeing no human safety driver or accident.”
Chinese engineering firm Yutong Motor has partnered with Beijing-based Bright Automotive to launch its self-driving buses in 2021. The total price for a “light” hybrid bus is expected to reach 60,000 yuan ($9,000). The startup believes a nearly silent ride can be obtained for 20 yuan.
“Our cars will go everywhere, in any situation, all on our own,” Bright Automotive Chief Executive He Changping told Reuters.