Tesla (TSLA) and Mercedes-Benz (OTCPK:MBGAF) were named to be the first foreign companies registered as providers of generative artificial intelligence services in China, according to Nikkei Asia. The development means that the U.S. and German automakers can register their AI assistants to respond to customer service inquiries in China.
China introduced a registration-based system for generative AI services in April of 2024, requiring providers to obtain government approval before offering such technology to consumers. That regulatory process includes technical vetting and compliance with local cybersecurity and data standards to make sure AI models meet national requirements before deployment.
Tesla’s (TSLA) voice assistant system in China uses AI models from DeepSeek and ByteDance (BDNCE) to deliver speech recognition, navigation, and music control functions for in-car use. The electric vehicle maker’s Shanghai xBot AI service is expected to integrate closely with Chinese users’ expectations for smart vehicle features.
Mercedes-Benz (OTCPK:MBGAF) plans to use its virtual assistant powered by Douyin’s Skylark AI to serve the newly launched all-electric CLA model in China. The assistant allows for voice interaction, intelligent navigation, and advanced cabin control, and the company projects it will serve over 70,000 vehicles annually by 2026. The CLA incorporates Mercedes’ latest human-machine interaction system, anticipating more personalized and intuitive in-car experiences.
Volvo Car, which is majority-owned by China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, was also granted the right to legally use generative AI services.