Geely Launches Satellites to Assist in Automobile Navigation

Geely Holding Group, a Chinese automaker, announced on Feb 3 that it has launched 11 low-earth orbit satellites, its second dispatch, as it expands its capacity to provide more accurate navigation for self-driving cars. They said in a statement to Reuters that the satellites were launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in the southwestern province of Sichuan.

Geely expects 72 satellites in orbit by 2025, with the goal of eventually having a 240-strong constellation. The first launch occurred in June 2022. In addition to providing high-precision positioning support to self-driving cars, Geely stated that its network will serve other commercial functions, such as connectivity to the consumer electronics industry.

The satellites have AI remote sensing functions, providing 1-5 meter (3.2-16.4 ft) clear high-resolution remote sensing imaging, the company said.

China's satellite networks are dominated by its military but the government began to allow private investment in the country's space industry in 2014. Since then, commercial companies, some backed by local governments, have rushed into the sector, with the majority focusing on making satellites and the rest attempting to build small launch vehicles including reusable rockets.