Expat vlogger marvels at Pingshan's innovation

In the bustling city, there lies a carefully “pinned” treasure spot — Pingshan. It is not only a sparkling gem on the map of Shenzhen but also a vivid testament to the interplay of modern innovation and diverse cultures. The “PIN Pingshan” series draws inspiration from location pins on maps, focusing the lens on every corner of Pingshan. Through the firsthand exploration of multiple expat vloggers, it captures the unique charm and limitless possibilities of this vibrant land.

Video and photos by Liu Xudong

In Pingshan District, the SkyShuttle and robotaxis are everyday features in residents’ lives. These advanced transport technologies not only showcase Pingshan’s cutting-edge advancements but also exemplify the unique innovation ecosystem in the district.

Recently, Brazilian vlogger Christine Bubeck visited BYD’s headquarters and the Bay Area Intelligent Connected Test Field in Pingshan to witness the technological prowess and dynamic innovation in the district.

Technological marvels

At China’s leading new energy vehicle (NEV) company BYD’s exhibition hall, Bubeck was captivated by a range of NEVs, the groundbreaking Blade Battery, and the environmentally friendly and intelligent SkyShuttle.

Christine Bubeck admires BYD’s Yangwang U8 at its headquarters in Pingshan District. 

She admired the Yangwang U8 and hoped to try out this luxury SUV which is capable of doing 360-degree tank turns and has a floating mode. She leaned in to observe a lineup of robot arms demonstrating BYD's fully automated vehicle manufacturing process, pausing to capture this industrial beauty with her camera.

She also took an interest in the Xuanji Intelligent Architecture which combines electrification and intelligence and was impressed by the safety feature of BYD’s Blade Battery after watching a video of its nail penetration test.

Christine Bubeck observes robot arms demonstrating BYD’s fully automated vehicle manufacturing process.

Bubeck mentioned that she has visited Pingshan several times and found the use of the autonomous SkyShuttle trains to be highly convenient. The SkyShuttle seamlessly connects major cultural sites, industrial zones, and Metro stations in Pingshan.

She highlighted her newfound knowledge about the high-tech infrastructure supporting the SkyShuttle rail transit system, including autonomous positioning, autonomous recharging, and overall operational efficiency, after touring BYD. She also noted the global impact of BYD’s electric buses, emphasizing their role in providing clean transport solutions and promoting sustainable urban development.

Christine Bubeck takes an interest in BYD’s DiLink Network-linked Intelligent System. 

While she was awestruck by BYD’s cutting-edge technologies, Bubeck was particularly impressed by a huge wall adorned with patent certificates, documenting the company’s innovation journey.“It’s very impressive and I can feel that the research and development, as well as innovation, are the driving force behind the company’s rapid development,” she remarked.

Opposite the patent wall stands the artisan wall, displaying photos of BYD’s distinguished experts who have spearheaded technological breakthroughs and pursued excellence. Bubeck remarked, “During my visit to BYD in Pingshan today, I immersed myself in a dynamic atmosphere of innovation.”

Christine Bubeck and other visitors listen to a BYD staffer’s introduction.

Driving the future

After leaving BYD, Bubeck visited the Bay Area Intelligent Connected Test Field nestled in the mountains. Offering testing services and equipment for intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs) and low-altitude aircraft, it is a land-and-air testing base in Shenzhen, serving the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), and beyond.

In the field, Bubeck observed various testing scenarios showcasing the future of transportation, with testing vehicles passing by intermittently. The field not only caters to ICVs but also includes facilities for testing right-hand drive vehicles for Hong Kong and Macao, fostering collaboration among Shenzhen, Hong Kong and Macao.

Christine Bubeck and other visitors listen to a staffer’s introduction at the Bay Area Intelligent Connected Test Field.

Impressed by the field’s focus on state-of-the-art ICV technologies and its role in enhancing coordinated development of regions, Bubeck learned its importance in Shenzhen’s transformation into a new-generation world-class automotive city and in driving integrated development in the GBA ICV industry cluster.

As one of the three leading industries in Pingshan, the new energy and ICV sector has seen significant growth and huge potential in recent years. As China’s first district to enact a district-level regulation on whole-region access for ICVs, Pingshan offers favorable conditions for the development of the ICV industry.

“After visiting BYD and the Bay Area Intelligent Connected Test Field，I’m impressed by Pingshan’s technological advancements, strategic foresight, and innovative initiatives,”Bubeck commended.

A testing vehicle drives into the sloped area at the Bay Area Intelligent Connected Test Field.

Innovation ecosystem 

The innovation in Pingshan is not only evident in technological advancements, the meticulous cultivation of its industries, and the exploration for future development, but also in the establishment of a comprehensive innovation ecosystem.

In BYD and the Bay Area Intelligent Connected Test Field, collaborations with universities, research institutes, and innovation platforms are seen in various initiatives. This integration of industries, academia, and research catalyzes ongoing innovation.

Moreover, Pingshan has implemented a range of policies and regulations, from incentives and service enhancements to talent attraction and the provision of diverse financing channels for enterprises’ research and development. Special support for key industries’ innovation has led to notable industry clustering.

“Today, I have expanded my perspective on Pingshan’s offerings. This district in Shenzhen is where technologies and innovative concepts take shape. This visit not only showcases trailblazing technologies but also underscores Pingshan’s innovative ethos,” said Bubeck.

With its dynamic innovation ecosystem, Pingshan is playing an increasingly crucial role on the global stage. As it intensifies its efforts, this district of innovation and future is poised to achieve more significant milestones and explore limitless possibilities.