CiDi, an intelligent driving research institute, has integrated Apollo 2.5 into a truck that can run autonomously on geo-fenced highways. Credit: Baidu Online Network Technology (Beijing).

Baidu has introduced ‘Apollo 2.5’, the latest iteration of its open autonomous driving platform to enable autonomous driving on geo-fenced highways.

This new iteration implements a geo-fenced, high-speed autonomous driving scenario, as well as decreases sensor cost significantly to expedite autonomous driving development.

The Apollo 2.5 comes with upgraded development tools such as a visual debugging tool, a data collector for high-definition maps and a simulator for cloud-based autonomous driving.

Baidu also announced the launch of the Apollo Automotive Cybersecurity Lab that will work to enhance safety in mobility.

Located in the Haidian district of Beijing, the 1,000m² lab is launched in partnership with the China Automotive Technology and Research Center and China Academy of Information and Communications Technology.

“As our research on intelligent driving technology deepens, we have an increased responsibility to ensure automotive cybersecurity.”

The lab is expected to employ academic experts from various universities, along with indigenous talents from Baidu’s Intelligent Driving Group to carry out in-depth research for the sustainable development of intelligent driving.

Baidu Intelligent Driving Group vice-president and general manager Zhenyu Li said: “Since the launch of Apollo, safety has been our core focus and is deeply rooted in the platform. We attach great importance to automotive functional safety and cybersecurity.

“As our research on intelligent driving technology deepens, we have an increased responsibility to ensure automotive cybersecurity. By creating this lab, we aim to set a new standard for research in cybersecurity for autonomous vehicles.”

The lab will conduct research on automotive cybersecurity technologies, solutions for in-vehicle systems, car-to-car communications, sensors and other aspects.

The experts in the facility will explore various security practices in data protection, reference software and hardware designs, as well as preventive measures to tackle fake signals that disturb autonomous driving system functioning.

Baidu is expected to start working with various Apollo partners and establish multiple joint labs in China.