China Slows Self-Driving Cars After Deadly Crash

China's aspirations for widespread self-driving vehicle sales have been significantly curtailed. Regulators have recently granted approval to only two out of nine previously submitted plans for self-driving cars, with these permissions narrowly focused on further testing rather than mass production. Beijing Automotive Group and Changan Automobile can operate self-driving taxis on specific highway sections in their respective hometowns, but with restrictions on lane changes and a requirement for human drivers on most roads.

These cautious steps follow a fatal accident involving a Xiaomi SU7 in late March, which garnered significant public attention, unlike previous incidents. The crash, occurring on a highway in Anhui Province, raised questions about legal responsibility for accidents involving assisted driving technology. Xiaomi stated the vehicle was in assisted-driving mode when it detected an obstacle, and the driver took control moments before the crash.

Amidst public discourse, China's Ministry of Public Security clarified that current assisted-driving systems are not equivalent to full automation, cautioning drivers against distractions. The government's revised approach aims to slow down development, narrow its scope, and implement necessary safeguards before a broader rollout.