Luo Yonghao Calls Chinese NEV AI Models 'Garbage,' Says No OEM Integrates Top Consumer Models

Chinese entrepreneur Luo Yonghao has drawn significant attention online after claiming that none of China's new-energy vehicle (NEV) automakers have integrated complete versions of the country's top consumer AI large models into their vehicles.

The Core Criticism

In a post on Weibo, Luo asked directly: "Which Chinese NEV company is currently integrating a complete, fully-enabled, and excellent AI large model — such as Doubao, Qianwen, or Kimi?" He specified he was referring to conversational AI systems, not vehicle control functions, which he acknowledged manufacturers typically defend on safety grounds.

Luo revealed that after testing dozens of vehicles across the market, he found zero that had integrated a complete version of any top-tier consumer AI model. He suggested automakers are likely prioritizing their own proprietary large models over third-party solutions.

Industry Response and Market Context

The criticism has already sparked heated discussion online, with the hashtag "Luo Yonghao Criticizes NEV AI Models as Garbage" quickly trending on Weibo. Industry insiders note that several Chinese EV makers have indeed invested heavily in in-house AI platforms, including XPENG's XNGP and Li Auto's ADAS integration, though these focus primarily on driving assistance rather than general conversational AI.

The debate highlights a growing tension between automakers' push for proprietary ecosystems and consumer demand for proven, powerful AI tools. While companies like BYD, NIO, Zeekr, and AITO have launched custom voice assistants and smart cockpit features, many lack the depth of consumer-focused models like Doubao, Qianwen, or Kimi that dominate the Chinese AI landscape.

What Consumers Want

Luo argued that integrating top-tier models would meaningfully improve the daily experience for drivers and passengers, who often spend over an hour per day in their vehicles. "Why not prioritize consumer experience? We'd even pay extra for it," he wrote, suggesting the market could support premium AI subscriptions if the technology delivered tangible value.

The issue also touches on broader questions about data privacy, integration complexity, and the competitive dynamics between AI companies and automakers — all of which may slow the adoption of third-party models in vehicles.

"Each model they've made is pretty garbage. Why can't you integrate the best models for consumer experience? Extra fees are fine — people spend over an hour a day in their cars and could actually get useful work done."

• Luo Yonghao is a well-known Chinese entrepreneur, formerly founder of Smartisan, now active in live-streaming e-commerce and AR/VR development.
• The hashtag about his criticism rapidly trended on Weibo after the post went live.
• Chinese automakers including XPENG, Li Auto, BYD, NIO, Zeekr, and AITO have all invested in proprietary AI and smart driving systems.