Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with Chinese self-driving tech startup Momenta to introduce a high-level automated driving system in its upcoming all-electric CLA model, marking the first time Mercedes-Benz has utilized intelligent driving technology from a Chinese supplier. The vehicle is set to enter mass production in April 2025.

This system does not require high-definition maps and will enable urban navigation assistance. It will be powered by the NVIDIA Orin X chip.

Mercedes-Benz also plans to expand its electric and smart driving offerings across several models, including the E-Class and the high-end EQS and S-Class, undergoing road testing for advanced driver assistance systems.

Analyst QuickTake: Today’s partnership would help Mercedes-Benz leverage local expertise to advance its technological initiatives in the competitive Chinese market. On a separate note, Mercedes-Benz (previously Daimler) has also been an early supporter of Momenta, investing in its Series B and Series C funding rounds in 2017 and 2021, respectively.