Horizon Robotics set to transform smart mobility with HSD rollout, Chery’s EXEED to lead global launch in September

What is Horizon Robotics’ new HSD system, and why does it matter?

Horizon Robotics (stock code: 9660.HK) has officially launched the mass production rollout of its Horizon SuperDrive (HSD) urban driving assistance system at its 2025 Annual Product Launch in Shanghai. The company confirmed that the global production debut will take place in September 2025 through a new model under Chery Automobile’s premium EXEED brand.

With increasing emphasis on human-like driving experiences and intelligent mobility in urban environments, Horizon’s HSD system is expected to drive long-term transformation across the autonomous vehicle sector. Built on Horizon’s Journey 6 processing hardware, the system employs an end-to-end architecture that simulates human behaviour to deliver safer, smoother, and more intuitive city driving.

How is Horizon expanding smart mobility with OEM flexibility?

To accommodate varying vehicle segments, Horizon launched three versions of the HSD platform, catering to entry-level, mid-range, and premium automotive categories. The company also introduced a modular hardware solution—Horizon Cell—enabling plug-and-play deployment for automakers with zero switching cost. This innovation provides enhanced OEM flexibility and scalability across Horizon’s design ecosystem.

These developments reflect broader trends in stock market performance today, especially as energy-efficient, AI-driven mobility platforms become core elements in the automotive industry’s transformation. Horizon’s mass production strategy positions it competitively amid current stock market trends and investment news and updates surrounding global vehicle electrification and automation.

What does the Chery partnership reveal about Horizon’s go-to-market strength?

Horizon’s collaboration with Chery Automobile dates back to 2021, when its Journey hardware began powering vehicles across Chery’s four premium brands. The HSD system represents a culmination of this partnership, with over 100,000 customers having already experienced Horizon-powered smart driving features.

Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Automobile, described Horizon as a “cornerstone partner” for the company’s smart mobility ambitions. The global debut of the HSD-equipped EXEED vehicle model in September is expected to solidify Chery’s premium EV and ADAS positioning, while simultaneously boosting Horizon Robotics’ brand equity in the smart mobility space.

Are there signs of expanding international partnerships?

Beyond Chery, Horizon Robotics is also deepening its alliance with the Volkswagen Group via their joint venture CARIZON. Several Volkswagen vehicle models integrated with CARIZON’s advanced driving assistance technology, including HSD, are slated for mass production by 2026.

This development signals Horizon’s intent to scale internationally and reflects rising momentum in global stock exchange updates today, where automotive innovation continues to shape top business stories of the day.

What is Horizon Robotics’ current stock performance and investor sentiment?

As of April 19, 2025, Horizon Robotics’ stock (9660.HK) closed at HK$5.47, down 0.91% on the day. The stock has declined nearly 25.88% over the past month, highlighting short-term volatility. However, it remains 64.76% above its 52-week low of HK$3.32, suggesting investor interest is holding firm despite cyclical pressures.

According to Fintel and Bloomberg data, analysts currently maintain a “Buy” rating with a mean price target of HK$10.43, spanning a low of HK$4.75 to a high of HK$14.00. This range reflects both cautious optimism and upside potential, especially if HSD adoption accelerates following the EXEED launch.

What are institutions doing with Horizon Robotics stock?

Institutional investors currently hold 8.96% of Horizon’s outstanding shares, with 12.8% of the float held institutionally. This modest figure underscores a growth-stage sentiment and reflects the broader landscape of AI and autonomous vehicle investments in Hong Kong’s equity market. A stronger institutional presence may develop as mass production milestones are met and global delivery volumes increase.

Investors tracking stock market trends and business news today will be watching to see if rising OEM partnerships and successful HSD deployments translate into increased institutional flows and stronger price action.

What’s the investment outlook for Horizon Robotics?

Short-Term Rating: Hold — The recent 1-month slide suggests cautious positioning is warranted. Volatility may persist until the September rollout delivers visible traction.

Long-Term Rating: Buy — Strategic partnerships with Chery Automobile and Volkswagen Group, a modular tech stack, and expanding design wins position Horizon as a key enabler in the next phase of smart mobility. Long-term investors with a focus on automotive AI innovation may find the current valuation attractive.

What’s next for Chery and Volkswagen in this evolving landscape?

Chery is reportedly preparing for a potential Hong Kong IPO, with analysts estimating the offering could value its auto unit at around 50 billion yuan (US$7.1 billion). This would significantly strengthen its ability to scale manufacturing and smart driving deployments with Horizon.

Volkswagen Group, meanwhile, continues to show stable equity performance and is actively investing in regional smart driving capabilities via CARIZON. With smart mobility now central to daily stock trading news and vehicle platform strategies, Volkswagen’s steady ramp-up in China could amplify long-term synergies.

How is Horizon scaling ADAS across the Chinese auto market?

With over 310 design wins and more than 200 vehicle models on the market, Horizon Robotics has firmly embedded itself in the Chinese automotive sector. Its technology powers products across 40+ OEMs, including all Top 10 automakers in China. This robust adoption base supports the company’s goal to make human-centric, AI-powered driving assistance available at scale.

From a stock market trends standpoint, Horizon’s ability to commercialise smart mobility across multiple price tiers—including through modular upgradable hardware—provides a compelling blueprint for profitable growth.

How does this align with Horizon’s long-term vision?

Dr. Yu Kai, Founder and CEO of Horizon Robotics, reiterated the company’s vision to build “smart companions” on wheels. With HSD, Horizon is no longer simply offering driver-assist features—it’s providing a platform for intelligent human-machine interaction across all market segments.

By focusing on accessibility, flexibility, and safety, Horizon aims to dominate the urban mobility space—where most smart driving innovations are being tested and validated. This vision aligns closely with top stock market trends today and resonates with consumer behaviour shifts driving the future of connected vehicles.