The Chinese government and major automakers are working together to create a unified framework for the future of autonomous driving. Following the issuance of the first Level-3 permits in late 2025, the focus has shifted to large-scale commercial application. Leaders like GAC Group’s Feng Xingya are now advocating for national standards to evaluate these complex systems.
Establishing a consistent evaluation system is seen as vital for consumer confidence and regulatory clarity. Without unified standards, the deployment of Level-3 and Level-4 vehicles could be hindered by fragmented regional rules. Proponents argue that opening more highway and urban expressway scenarios for testing is the next logical step.
Data security remains a high priority for manufacturers like Chery as vehicles become more connected. Standardizing how data is collected and transmitted is necessary to prevent cyber threats and protect driver privacy. A secure data environment is the “invisible infrastructure” that will allow intelligent driving to flourish.
The 2026 government work report reinforces this direction by emphasizing the “smart economy.” This vision involves more than just self-driving cars; it includes smart traffic management and integrated logistics. The synergy between government policy and private innovation is a defining feature of China’s current automotive landscape.
As we move deeper into the 15th Five-Year Plan, the transition from “testing” to “living” with autonomous tech will accelerate. If the industry can solve the twin challenges of standardization and security, it will likely lead the world in smart mobility. The next few years will be the “foundational era” for this technology.