Tesla offers free trials for self-driving service in China

Tesla is launching a free trial of its full self-driving service in China from March 17 to April 16, the company said on its Chinese website.

The limited-time trial is available to Chinese users whose cars are equipped with compatible assisted-driving hardware and software, as well as the newest version of navigation maps.

FSD is a suite of driving-assistance technologies developed with generative artificial intelligence to cope with more complicated traffic conditions.

Meanwhile, the joint venture of Volkswagen and FAW Group yesterday said it will launch 11 new Volkswagen and Jetta branded models tailored for the China market from 2026. The models include six electric vehicles, two plug-in hybrids, two extended-rangers and one gasoline.

In other news, Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD (1211) is considering Germany for a possible third assembly plant in Europe, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, after the region's biggest economy and car market opposed EU tariffs on China-made EVs last year.

Chinese carmakers are looking to set up plants in Europe as they seek to sell more lower-cost cars in the region to challenge European competitors. They also want to avoid the import tariffs the EU imposed on China-made EVs last year.

BYD yesterday launched an upgraded platform for electric vehicles with 1,000-volt architecture that it said could charge EVs as fast as pumping gas.

The EV giant will build over 4,000 ultra-fast charging piles, or units, to make the technology available nationwide.

Agencies