Baidu has signed a statement of intent to use BlackBerry QNX’s ISO26262 ASIL-D certified safety operating system (OS) for its Apollo autonomous driving open platform.

Both companies have agreed to collaborate to facilitate the deployment of connected and autonomous vehicle technology for automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers worldwide.

Baidu Intelligent Driving Group general manager Li Zhenyu said: “BlackBerry QNX has established itself as the OS platform for safety-certified production-based systems. We aim to provide automakers with a clear and fast path to fully autonomous vehicle production, with safety and security as top priorities.

“By integrating the BlackBerry QNX OS with the Apollo platform, we will enable carmakers to leap from prototype to production systems.

“Together, we will work toward a technological and commercial ecosystem for autonomous driving, intelligent connectivity, and intelligent traffic systems.”

“Together, we will work toward a technological and commercial ecosystem for autonomous driving, intelligent connectivity, and intelligent traffic systems.”

Comprising cloud services, an open software stack, reference hardware and vehicle platforms, Apollo supports all major features and functions of an autonomous vehicle.

It is already used by more than 70 global entities, including OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, developer platforms, and technology start-ups.

The two firms will also work to integrate Baidu’s CarLife integration software for connected cars in China.

Additionally, Baidu’s conversational AI system DuerOS, and high-definition maps will run on the BlackBerry QNX Car (Infotainment) Platform.

BlackBerry QNX senior vice-president and general manager John Wall said: “Joining forces with Baidu will enable us to explore integration opportunities for multiple vehicle subsystems, including ADAS, infotainment, gateways, and cloud services.”