Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the WA (World Action) model in the context of autonomous driving technology, contrasting it with the VLA (Vision-Language Action) model, highlighting their respective advantages and applications in the industry [4][62]. Summary by Sections Introduction to WA Model - The WA model is gaining traction in the autonomous driving sector, with companies like Huawei and NIO publicly endorsing this approach [6][30]. - The concept of the WA model has historical roots dating back to the 1940s, originating from the idea of "mental models" proposed by psychologist Kenneth Craik [9][11]. Mechanism of WA Model - The WA model allows machines to interpret the physical world by simulating a "small world model" that helps in decision-making based on sensory information [12][29]. - The model has evolved with advancements in AI, particularly after the introduction of techniques like "dream training" by DeepMind in 2018, which compresses real-world scenarios into data for predictive modeling [17][26]. Comparison with VLA Model - The WA model is characterized by its strong analytical capabilities regarding the laws of motion in the physical world, enabling it to predict driving scenarios effectively [31][32]. - NIO claims that the WA model can analyze driving data from the last 3 seconds and simulate conditions for up to 120 seconds in just 0.1 seconds, generating 216 possible scenarios [32][33]. - The WA model incorporates a "pre-judgment" phase, enhancing its response speed compared to traditional end-to-end models [34][35]. Advantages of WA Model - The WA model offers higher interpretability and lower latency, making it more effective in specific hazardous scenarios compared to the VLA model [60]. - It can simulate extreme collision scenarios in a virtual environment, allowing for extensive data generation for model training, which is crucial for improving the system's response to rare events [51][52]. - The model's architecture is designed to use less computational power at the vehicle level, optimizing performance during critical situations [54][59]. Long-term Outlook - The article suggests that while the WA and VLA models currently represent distinct paths in autonomous driving technology, there is potential for future integration or the emergence of new architectures that could unify their strengths [71].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the divergence in the autonomous driving technology paths among car manufacturers, specifically focusing on the VLA (Vision, Language, Action) model and the WA (World Model) approach, highlighting the advantages and challenges of the VLA model in the context of achieving higher levels of autonomous driving [4][5][16][87]. Group 1: VLA Model Overview - The VLA model was popularized after Tesla's end-to-end system was launched, leading to widespread adoption across the industry [3][4]. - Companies like Li Auto and Xpeng have adopted the VLA model, with Li Auto claiming to have transitioned from "partially leading" to "fully leading" in autonomous driving technology [7][8][10]. - The VLA model is based on the concept introduced by Google's DeepMind in July 2023, initially aimed at robotics, allowing machines to understand human language [25][28]. Group 2: Advantages of VLA Model - The VLA model improves the interpretability of autonomous systems, allowing engineers to correct errors by modifying the descriptive language generated from sensor data [50]. - It enhances system interaction capabilities, enabling users to issue commands in natural language, thus creating a more intuitive user experience [56][58]. - The VLA model has a higher potential for handling complex scenarios, as it can reason and make decisions based on a broader understanding of the environment [62][66]. Group 3: Challenges of VLA Model - Despite its advantages, the VLA model may not show immediate performance differences compared to traditional end-to-end systems, as it builds upon the existing architecture [73][74]. - The complexity of the VLA model increases the need for substantial computational power, making hardware capabilities critical for its effectiveness [80][84]. - Companies must invest significantly in both software and hardware to fully leverage the VLA model, which raises concerns about its feasibility in the short term [87].