AI-powered cars in China, Intel targets automotive market

Intel is making a bold move into the AI-powered automotive industry with the launch of its first discrete GPU designed for autonomous and intelligent cars. The Intel Arc Graphics for Automotive dGPU was unveiled at an event in Shenzhen, China, and is set to be commercially deployed in early 2025. The new technology promises to revolutionise in-car AI experiences, providing drivers and manufacturers with enhanced personalisation and functionality.

The automotive market presents a new opportunity for Intel, which has struggled to keep pace with competitors like Nvidia in the AI sector. Nvidia dominates the market with its GPUs powering the majority of AI workloads, leaving Intel in need of a breakthrough. The new dGPU could be that opportunity, allowing Intel to establish a foothold in a growing industry keen on integrating AI capabilities.

Intel’s new dGPU is an open, scalable platform that builds on its existing SDV System-on-Chip. The platform supports premium AI features such as in-car assistants for navigation and entertainment. Demonstrations at the event showcased its ability to power multiple high-definition displays, voice and gesture recognition, and advanced infotainment systems. Intel’s partners, including Thunder Software Technology and Zhiphu Technologies, highlighted the potential for immersive mobile hubs and AI assistants.

The move into the automotive sector is a strategic one for Intel as it seeks to leverage the rapid technological adoption in China. The company aims to tap into an ecosystem of over 100 software companies to provide a wide range of AI-powered in-car experiences. Intel’s Vice President and General Manager of Automotive, Jack Weast, emphasised the potential of this market, citing China’s advanced development cycles and technological adoption as key factors.