China has taken another step forward in the self-driving car market. The country’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has given its first approval for cars with Level-3 autonomous driving capabilities. The two electric sedans come from state-owned automakers Changan Auto and BAIC Motor.
The US National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines Level-3 driving as, “The system takes over all aspects of the driving task, while you as the driver are available to take over driving when requested. If the system can no longer perform the task and signals the driver, the driver must be available to resume all aspects of the driving task.”
According to a translation of MIIT’s announcement, the Changan vehicle can drive autonomously in single lanes of both highways and urban expressways in traffic congestion. Only in some areas of Chongqing is it allowed at a maximum speed of 50 km/h (31 mph). The BAIC electric sedan can also operate autonomously on the same roads, but only in areas of Beijing at a maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph).
“The team strictly followed the standards and procedures to conduct the initial review, selection, testing and safety assessment,” MIIT said. “Both automotive companies have completed and passed product testing and safety assessments as required.” He did not offer a timeline for when the models would be available.
The US approved its first certified Level-3 car, Mercedes, in January 2023.
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