Tesla Inc., led by Elon Musk, has received preliminary clearance from Chinese officials to launch its driver-assistance system in the world’s most sizeable auto market. The company’s recent venture into China has thus, proven to be fruitful.
As reported by Bloomberg Law, Tesla was granted the approval under certain undefined conditions. Despite the lack of clarity surrounding all specific criteria, two crucial ones could be met by the company. These include striking a mapping and navigation deal with local tech titan Baidu Inc., and successfully meeting requirements regarding the management of data-security and privacy issues.
Details of this agreement and the stipulations for maintaining data privacy and security were not immediately available. Yet, the accord with Baidu Inc. is notable, given the tech giant’s prominent stand in China’s digital and tech industry.
During Musk’s brief visit to China, the CEO also managed to secure a meeting with Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, further bolstering the company’s relationship with officialdom in the country.
While the specifics of the company’s driver-assistance system and its operation in China are still under conversations, the fact that Tesla has garnered preliminary approval marks a significant step in its international expansion efforts.