China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has moved aggressively to strengthen regulations around driver assistance technology. This decision comes on the heels of China’s first fatal accident involving a driverless vehicle from Xiaomi Corp subsidiary, after the driverless vehicle hit and killed three people. During a recent video conference, MIIT officials told such new regulations to at least a dozen automakers. These rulemakings, primarily aimed at improving safety, work to communicate better what is possible with each technology.
The newly established guidelines require automakers to submit detailed reports regarding software updates to government agencies before any changes can be implemented. This can be an important first step in preserving oversight and accountability as we enter a new era of automotive technology. The MIIT stressed that companies must be transparent about both the capabilities and limitations of their driver assistance systems to prevent misuse and misunderstandings among consumers.
MIIT officials should be commended for taking such strong action to protect users. They’ve prohibited car manufacturers from doing any sort of test events with potential customers until the products are completely completed. In previous test drives, trouble signs began to materialize. Firms such as Li Auto Inc and Xpeng Inc offered mass public trials, potentially endangering drivers by exposing them to unproven technology.
Perhaps even more important than the broad strokes of the new rules is the details of the mandate to require automakers to limit self-parking features. Under the old rules, drivers didn’t have to be behind the wheel to utilize such features. Otherwise, they’ll face prohibitive costs to come and interact with them. This amendment is a meaningful step toward mitigating the risks associated with so-called autonomous driving features. It also ensures that drivers are always in command when they’re driving.
Transformative regulatory changes are sweeping through China’s automotive sector. Even prior to the most recent crash, MIIT had been on the front foot in trying to establish guardrails around driver assistance technology. In March, Tesla Inc revised the branding of its Full Self Driving (FSD) product to “Advanced Driver Assistance Function” in China, reflecting a more cautious approach toward marketing these technologies.
Due to the immediate implementation of these new rules, growing use cases for smart cockpits and advanced driver assistance systems will be delayed. Implementation burdens for manufacturers Manufacturers will likely require additional time to produce the new, robust safety measures. At the MIIT meeting, participants spoke about the need for broader goals than simply decreasing the frequency of mandatory software updates. Carmakers are now met with a high-hurdle regulatory gauntlet to introduce advanced technologies designed to protect consumers.
In mid-February, MIIT released guidelines specifically addressing the use of over-the-air (OTA) software updates. It’s something that many automakers already leverage these updates for, with regularity improving their in-car technology. For automated driver assistance systems, updates are a vital part of maintaining safety and relevance. Thanks to recently adopted regulations, automakers are now legally obligated to keep these updates safe, ethical and transparent.
Other industry pundits have been following these recent developments very closely. They are particularly interested to monitor how these regulations will impact the development of innovation in China’s automotive space. While safety remains a paramount concern, there is recognition that excessive regulation could hinder technological advancement and competitiveness in a rapidly changing market.
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