China Hits the Brakes on Self-Driving Cars After Horror Crash That Killed Three and Spurs Stricter Safety Rules

Published on December 29, 2025

In the latest travel tech news, China is slowing its push for mass deployment of advanced self-driving vehicles following a tragic accident in March that killed three university students. The incident, involving Xiaomi’s SU7 electric car operating under assisted-driving mode, has prompted authorities to rethink the speed at which autonomous technologies are allowed on public roads. China autonomous driving regulation now emphasizes self-driving vehicle safety above rapid commercial rollout, making clear that technology alone cannot replace human oversight.

The Accident That Changed the Game

The March crash highlighted the risks of assuming self-driving systems are ready for full-scale use:

• The car was traveling at about 72 mph when it detected a lane closure due to construction.
• After issuing a warning, the system allowed the driver to take control, but the vehicle struck a concrete barrier roughly one second later.
• The tragedy accelerated regulatory scrutiny and pushed the government to enforce stricter safety rules.

This incident became a catalyst for refining driver assistance policies and ensuring that public trust is not compromised by premature technology deployment.

Limited Approval for Level 3 Vehicles

China has issued tightly controlled Level-3 autonomous permits to only two companies: Beijing Automotive Group and Changan Automobile.

• Approved operations are restricted to robotaxis on just three specific highway stretches in Beijing and Chongqing.
• Vehicles cannot change lanes under computer control; drivers must take over outside designated zones.
• These permissions are primarily for further testing rather than full commercial use.

By imposing these limitations, regulators are gradually integrating higher automation levels without risking public safety, highlighting the government’s careful approach to self-driving vehicle safety.

Where China Stands Today

Currently, most vehicles on Chinese roads are Level 2, which assist with speed and steering but still require the driver’s constant attention.

• Automakers who had already produced Level 3-ready vehicles will downgrade them to Level 2 software until further approvals.
• Fully autonomous Level 5 vehicles are not yet approved anywhere, illustrating the caution that accompanies industrial standards for automation.
• This measured pace is intended to protect both drivers and pedestrians while allowing the industry to develop responsibly.

Strict Rules on Marketing and Transparency

The MIIT has strengthened driver assistance policies, ensuring consumers are not misled:

• Manufacturers are prohibited from using terms like “autonomous driving” or “smart driving” for Level 2 vehicles.
• Reports showed some domestic systems struggled to avoid collisions in night-time tests near trucks and construction zones, highlighting the need for careful messaging.
• Tesla vehicles, in comparison, performed more reliably under similar tests.

Clear communication is central to maintaining self-driving vehicle safety and helping drivers understand system limitations.

Strengthening Safety Standards

China is raising the bar for MIIT safety requirements and industrial standards for automation:

• Vehicles must meet strict performance criteria for sensors, cameras, and computing systems before public deployment.
• The government encourages collaboration between automakers, research institutions, and regulators to create standardized testing protocols.
• Safety benchmarks include simulation tests, operational reliability, and emergency response protocols.

These steps ensure that automation is integrated safely, reinforcing public confidence in advanced technologies.

Legal Accountability Matters

China autonomous driving regulation also addresses responsibility in case of accidents:

• Drivers remain accountable even with advanced assistance systems engaged.
• Municipal regulations clarify manufacturer and operator liability, ensuring everyone in the chain is responsible for safety.
• These measures protect road users and encourage automakers to prioritize reliability over marketing hype.

Looking Ahead: Innovation Within Safe Limits

Travel tech news continues to track China’s cautious yet forward-looking approach to autonomous mobility:

• Level-3 autonomous permits are expected to expand slowly under strict government supervision.
• New MIIT safety requirements and industrial standards for automation are being refined to ensure future innovations are safe.
• Precise driver assistance policies prevent misleading marketing and foster public trust.
• Authorities aim to balance technological progress with safety, creating a sustainable path for autonomous vehicle deployment.

Conclusion

The latest travel tech news highlights China’s commitment to responsible autonomous driving. By enforcing China autonomous driving regulation, issuing cautious Level-3 autonomous permits, and strengthening self-driving vehicle safety, the government is building a framework that allows innovation while protecting lives. Enhanced driver assistance policies, robust industrial standards for automation, and strict MIIT safety requirements ensure that advanced vehicles operate safely, setting a model for the future of autonomous mobility worldwide.