BEIJING: China has officially approved its first level-3 autonomous driving vehicles, a move widely seen as a pivotal moment in the country’s strategy to dominate next-generation automotive technologies.
The approval, issued by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, covers two electric sedans produced by state-owned automakers Changan Automobile and BAIC Motor, making them the first level-3 vehicles authorised for commercial use by China’s national regulator.
The vehicles are allowed to operate with conditional autonomous driving functions on selected roads in Chongqing and Beijing, within specified speed limits, as part of a carefully controlled rollout.
Initial deployment will take place through ride-hailing services operated by the automakers, enabling regulators to closely supervise performance and safety outcomes.
Level-3 autonomy represents a significant leap beyond advanced driver assistance systems, as it permits drivers to disengage from active driving under certain conditions, though human intervention may still be required.
The decision highlights Beijing’s determination to lead in autonomous driving, a sector expected to reshape mobility, logistics and urban transportation systems worldwide.
However, the push comes amid growing safety and regulatory challenges. Chinese authorities earlier this year increased scrutiny of assisted-driving technologies following a deadly accident involving a Xiaomi vehicle, prompting calls for stricter oversight.
In response, regulators have moved to tighten accountability, placing greater legal responsibility on automakers and parts suppliers for system failures.
Beyond level-3, China is already advancing toward higher autonomy. Companies such as Pony.ai and WeRide continue to test level-4 vehicles across multiple cities with support from local governments.
While Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system remains classified as level-2 in China, domestic players are rapidly closing the gap, positioning China as a key battleground in the global autonomous driving race.
