Archive — CN — technode
Xpeng Appoints AI Chief Xianming Liu to Lead Autonomous Driving Division
Xpeng Motors has appointed Xianming Liu as the head of its Autonomous Driving Division, replacing Liyun Li. Liu, who has a strong background in AI and machine learning, aims to integrate large foundation models into intelligent driving systems. This leadership change highlights increased competition in AI within the automotive industry as Xpeng prepares for its upcoming AI Technology Day.
Key points
- Xpeng Motors appointed Xianming Liu as head of the Autonomous Driving Division on October 9, 2023.
- Liu replaces Liyun Li, who will remain with the company.
- Liu holds a Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering and has experience at Meta and Cruise.
- He joined Xpeng in March 2024 and has reported directly to CEO He Xiaopeng.
- Liu's expertise in machine learning and computer vision is expected to enhance Xpeng's intelligent driving systems.
- This change reflects ongoing shifts in Xpeng's leadership as competition in AI and autonomous driving intensifies among Chinese automakers.
Why it matters
- The appointment aligns with the current trend of increasing emphasis on AI integration in automotive technology.
- As of 2023, several automotive firms, including Tesla and Baidu, are racing to advance autonomous driving capabilities through AI.
- Xpeng's forthcoming AI Technology Day aims to showcase their advancements in AI and autonomous driving technologies amidst heightened competition.
Xpeng's strategic leadership change signals a commitment to AI-driven innovation in autonomous driving, indicating its position in a rapidly evolving and competitive automotive landscape.