OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2024AUTO BUSINESS OUTLOOK 8By Lei Zhang, Global Vice President, Digital Cockpit and Software Development, NIOOUR FUTURE SMART CARS WILL BE EMBODIED BY DIGITAL ASSISTANTSLei Zhang leads the global Digital Cockpit team for Nio in Silicon Valley. The team is responsible for the single, highly capable domain controller and the holistic digital experienceit enables in its products. Lei has over ten years of experience in the technology industry and specializes in Android, embedded Linux, automotive IVI, mobile applications, and web services. Previously, Lei was VP, Software and Chief Architect at Huami Corp. and Tech Lead Manager at Google. He holds a Master's degree in Computer Engineering from Peking University.Many automotive industry observers are debating how onboard digital assistants' advances can enable future innovations for electric vehicles, and eventually,for autonomous cars. This debate is helping us define what a "smart car" will be for its users.Current consumer devices such as Siri by Apple, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home provide convenient services for consumers to manage their home networks, interact with entertainment systems, oversee security, and reduce energy consumption around the house. However, our behaviors in the car arevery different from those in the household. Drivers engage inhigh-speed travel with a need for rapid decisions about navigation routes, charging and maintenance requirements, and extensive safety protections.As autonomous cars are transformed into mobile living spaces,we envision that digital assistants will evolve over time and understand users to help them better use the vehicles and services provided. Through voice-activated conversations and machine learning, these assistants will eventually embody the vehicle itself and serve as a trusted companion for drivers and their families on the road.We have already started on this path toward a more welcoming experience for drivers and passengers. NIO's onboard digital assistant called NOMI lights up the car exterior when its computer vision system recognizes people approaching it. NOMI also automatically adjusts the cabin airflow vents, seating positions, and mirror settings based on each user's unique preferences. NOMI can light up the darkened dashboard touchscreen in another new feature when it anticipates someone is trying to talk to her. Over time, we will refine NOMI's machine learning algorithms to improve each user's driving experience by further Lei ZhangIN MY OPINION
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