Smart-driving aids push brands into pole position

Attendees look at a Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. Zeekr 009 electric vehicle during a launch event in Hong Kong, China, on Friday, July 19, 2024. Electric vehicle maker Zeekr is considering making cars in European factories linked to its parent, the Chinese auto conglomerate Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co., to avoid European Union tariffs and further its international expansion. Photographer: Lam Yik/Bloomberg

Beijing: Smart-driving functions have become a must for electric vehicles (EVs) in China, especially when such brands aspire to grow themselves into premium ones, analysts say.

More than 62% of EVs, plug-in hybrids as well as range-extended vehicles sold in the first two months of this year feature advanced driving-assistance systems, according to the China Passenger Car Association.