Geely launches 11 satellites for autonomous cars

The Chinese car manufacturer, Geely Holding Group, made an announcement this past Saturday about the successful launch of 11 low-Earth-orbit satellites, marking its second deployment. 

Launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in Sichuan province, Geely aims to enhance navigation accuracy for autonomous vehicles through its satellite network. The company plans to have 72 satellites in orbit by 2025 and envisions a constellation of 240 in the future, following its initial launch in June 2022. 

over and above supporting high-precision positioning for self-driving cars, Geely’s satellite network will also serve various commercial purposes, including connectivity to the consumer electronics sector. Equipped with AI remote sensing capabilities, the satellites provide clear, high-resolution imaging in the range of 1m to 5m. 

While China’s satellite networks have traditionally been military dominated, the government began permitting private investment in the country’s space industry in 2014. This policy shift has led to a surge in commercial companies entering the sector, with a focus on satellite manufacturing and the development of small launch vehicles, including reusable rockets. 

In alignment with Beijing’s five-year plan for 2021-2025, which emphasizes an integrated satellite network for communications, remote sensing, and navigation, Geely’s satellite initiative contributes to the broader national goals. China currently has over 400 deployed satellites in space, encompassing both government and commercially owned satellites, reflecting the country’s commitment to advancing its presence in space technology.