Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the sudden operational halt of the autonomous driving startup, Haomo Zhixing Technology Co., Ltd., highlighting employee concerns and the company's precarious situation amid industry challenges [1][3][11]. Company Situation - On November 22, Haomo Zhixing announced a "work stoppage" starting November 24, leaving employees anxious and without clear communication from management regarding future operations [3][4]. - Employees reported that the company had not addressed critical issues such as salary payments and social security contributions, leading to uncertainty about their employment status [4][6]. - There are rumors that the company's accounts have been frozen, further exacerbating employee anxiety about their financial security and social security payments [6]. Employee Concerns - Employees expressed a desire for either a clear plan for the company's revival or a formal announcement of dissolution with compensation details, including back pay and social security contributions [6]. - Many employees planned to wait until November 25, the scheduled payday for October salaries, to decide on their next steps based on the company's response [6]. Company Background - Haomo Zhixing was established in November 2019 as a spinoff from Great Wall Motors, having undergone seven rounds of financing with a valuation exceeding $1 billion [8]. - The company has developed several products, including the "Little Magic Camel" autonomous delivery vehicle and the MANA intelligent driving data system, but has faced operational challenges and dependency on Great Wall Motors for orders [8][9]. Industry Context - The autonomous driving sector is experiencing increased competition and a shift towards rationality after a period of capital frenzy, with many companies facing funding difficulties and operational stagnation [11]. - Great Wall Motors has begun to pivot resources towards external suppliers for high-level intelligent driving solutions, indicating a strategic shift that may impact Haomo Zhixing's future [11].

Core Insights - The autonomous driving company, Haomo Zhixing, backed by Great Wall Motors, has announced a sudden suspension of operations starting November 24 due to its current business conditions [2] - Employees reported that the company has not communicated any explanations regarding the suspension and has delayed salary payments for two months [2] - Haomo Zhixing has faced operational difficulties since November last year, leading to layoffs and the departure of several senior executives [2] Company Overview - Haomo Zhixing was established in November 2019 with a registered capital exceeding 150 million RMB and has 243 employees across multiple cities [3] - The company is primarily owned by Great Wall Motors, with significant stakes held by other entities, and has undergone seven rounds of financing, achieving a valuation of over 1 billion USD [3] - It was previously part of Great Wall Motors' intelligent driving division and focuses on artificial intelligence technology for autonomous driving [3] Technological Developments - The company launched its first last-mile delivery vehicle, "Xiao Mo Tuo," in November 2020 and has developed an intelligent driving data system called MANA [4] - As of 2023, MANA has accumulated over 620,000 hours of learning time, enhancing the company's technology in perception, cognition, and decision-making [4] - The HPilot driver assistance system has been integrated into nearly 20 models under Great Wall Motors' brands, with its 3.0 version supporting both highway and urban scenarios [4]

Core Insights - The article discusses the recent dissolution of a prominent AI driving company, Maomao Zhixing, which has faced significant operational challenges and staff turnover [2][3]. Company Overview - Maomao Zhixing was established on November 29, 2019, as a subsidiary of Great Wall Motors, focusing on autonomous driving technology [6]. - The company initially made rapid advancements, launching its first autonomous delivery vehicle, "Xiao Mo Tuo," in November 2020, and developing the MANA data intelligence system by December 2021 [6][8]. Recent Developments - The company has experienced substantial layoffs, with reports indicating that nearly one-third to half of its functional departments were cut last year [5]. - Key personnel, including the Vice President of Technology and the Public Relations team, have left the company, raising concerns about its stability [5][6]. - As of June 2023, the company's official communications have ceased, with the last update being a holiday poster on October 1 [5]. Product and Technology - In April 2023, Maomao Zhixing launched the DriveGPT autonomous driving generative model, coinciding with the rise of ChatGPT [8]. - The HPilot 3.0 driver assistance system has been integrated into nearly 20 models under Great Wall Motors by 2025 [8]. - However, competition has intensified, with Yuanrong Qixing providing end-to-end smart driving solutions for Great Wall Motors, leading to speculation that Maomao Zhixing has become less favored within the company [8]. Market Reaction - Users of Maomao Zhixing's products have expressed concerns and dissatisfaction regarding their experience following the company's potential closure [9].