Zhang's dedication to enhancing the safety and efficiency of intelligent connected vehicles reflects the country's commitment to advancing technology in the automotive industry, ensuring a safer and more connected future on the roads. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality.

The concept of connected vehicles can be traced back to the 1990s. At the 1996 Chicago Auto Show, General Motors announced Project Beacon — later renamed OnStar — which was enabled by onboard sensors, and multiple intelligent algorithms.

However, the connection only allowed information flow between vehicles and operation centers. Empowered by leaps in technology, connected cars are now embarking on a new era of intelligent transport.