Chinese automaker launches satellites for self-driving vehicles
Chinese automaker Geely Holding Group has announced the deployment of 11 low-earth orbit satellites in its second launch as part of its efforts to enhance navigation precision for autonomous vehicles.
Geely announced that the satellites were successfully launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center located in the southwestern province of Sichuan.
The company said it expects 72 to be in orbit by 2025 and eventually plans to have a constellation of 240. The first launch was conducted in June 2022.
Geespace successfully launched the second constellation of satellites, comprising 11 satellites, to finish the deployment of the second orbital plane of the Geely Future Mobility Constellation. pic.twitter.com/HPwI5aX7Ap
— Geely Group (@GeelyGroup) February 3, 2024
Geely stated that, in addition to offering high-precision positioning for autonomous vehicles, its satellite network will extend its utility to various commercial applications, including connectivity for the consumer electronics sector. Notably, the satellites are equipped with AI remote sensing capabilities, delivering clear, high-resolution imaging with a range of 1-5 meters (3.2-16.4 ft).
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China’s satellite networks have traditionally been under military dominance; however, a shift occurred in 2014 when the government started permitting private investment in the country’s space industry. Since then, commercial entities, some with local government support, have swiftly entered the sector. The majority concentrate on satellite production, while others aim to develop small launch vehicles, including reusable rockets.
In its most recent five-year plan spanning 2021–2025, Beijing has outlined the objective of establishing a comprehensive satellite network encompassing communications, remote sensing, and navigation. State media reports indicate that China currently boasts over 400 deployed satellites in space, including commercially owned satellites.
