China Tightens Regulations On Autonomous Driving Technology Amid Safety Concerns

• Marketing Restrictions

1. Terms like "autonomous driving," "self-driving," and "L2.999" are banned. Systems must be labeled as "Level X

2. Prohibited phrases include "hands-free," "driverless," and "remote parking," deemed to overstate capabilities.

• Usage Controls

1. Facial recognition and posture monitoring will enforce driver engagement during ADAS operation.

2. Seat adjustments or reclining are disabled while using ADAS. 

3. Functions like "remote summon" or "valet parking" (requiring full driver disengagement) are suspended.

• Deployment Rules

1. Over-the-air (OTA) updates must undergo rigorous testing; emergency updates require government approval. Public beta tests are prohibited unless officially authorized.

2. Level 2 systems must pass detailed collision-avoidance simulations with documented proof.

1. The move follows widespread misuse of ADAS features, exacerbated by automakers' aggressive marketing (e.g., livestreams showcasing "hands-free" driving).
2. McKinsey data shows over 70% of Chinese consumers prioritize ADAS features like highway NOA (Navigate on Autopilot), but "risk compensation behavior" has led to distracted driving incidents.

1. While short-term disruptions are expected-automakers must revise marketing materials and delay unapproved features-the regulations aim to align industry growth with safety.
2. Analysts predict the rules will widen the gap between true innovators and competitors reliant on rapid, untested updates.

• Industry sources confirmed MIIT's April 16 meeting details via Huxiu Auto.
• Policy aligns with China's 2023-2025《智能网联汽车发展规划》, emphasizing safety standardization.
• This regulatory shift underscores China's push to balance technological ambition with public safety, setting a precedent for global ADAS governance.