China's major IT players hit the road
China's three major IT companies, Baidu, Alibaba and Tencent, are entering into the automobile industry, accelerating the use of technology in cars. For example, Baidu has been experimenting with CarLife, a system that links in-vehicle information devices and smartphones, Alibaba is launching an online car sales website (see yesterday's story) and Tencent plans to expand its map information services. Additionally, Baidu is developing a self-driving car using AI and deep learning technology, in partnership with BMW.
BEIJING -- China's three major information technology companies -- Baidu, Alibaba and Tencent -- are embarking on automobile-related businesses, accelerating the use of IT in cars.

Audi's demonstration of Baidu CarLife attracted a lot of attention at CES Asia 2015.

Baidu, China's largest Internet search company, is planning to provide various services, mainly with CarLife, a system that links in-vehicle information devices and smartphones. Alibaba Group Holding, the country's largest e-commerce company, is venturing into online sales of new cars. Tencent Holdings, China's largest social networking service company, aims to expand its new map information service.