China is moving quickly to advance assisted driving technology while urging caution to ensure road safety. Following a fatal crash involving a Xiaomi SU7 earlier this year, regulators have introduced new guidelines emphasizing the importance of driver monitoring and manufacturer accountability in vehicles equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
The country’s approach aims to accelerate innovation without compromising safety. More than 60% of new cars sold in China this year come with Level 2 ADAS capabilities, including automated steering, braking, and acceleration that still require driver supervision. Companies like BYD, Huawei, and Zeekr are at the forefront, offering these features as standard and preparing for Level 3 systems that allow hands-off driving under certain conditions.
In response to the Xiaomi crash, authorities temporarily paused testing programs such as Changan’s Level 3 trials. However, regulators plan to resume evaluations soon, with the goal of approving the first Level 3 production vehicles by 2026. These efforts are supported by a growing regulatory framework that mandates driver alertness systems and assigns legal responsibility to manufacturers in the event of failures.
China’s strategy stands in contrast to more lenient regulatory environments in the U.S. and Europe. By insisting on clear safety standards and accountability, the country is positioning itself as a global leader in intelligent vehicle innovation.
Officials describe the approach as one of cautious acceleration, aiming to “feel the stones while crossing the river” – a metaphor for learning through careful progress. This balanced method may give Chinese automakers a competitive advantage in the global race to commercialize safe and effective assisted driving technology.
As the automotive sector continues to evolve, China’s dual focus on innovation and oversight is setting a precedent for how emerging technologies can be integrated responsibly into everyday mobility.
