China is intensifying its regulations on how car manufacturers promote driver-assistance features, prohibiting terms such as “autonomous driving,” “self-driving,” and “smart driving,” according to a Reuters report that referenced a meeting transcript between government officials and industry representatives.
The revised regulations also bar automakers from implementing software updates to enhance advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in vehicles already owned by customers. Automakers are now required to test any enhancements or new features in ADAS and obtain government approval prior to deployment via software updates.
Wireless software updates, which can enhance or correct vehicle features and were first popularized by Tesla, have become essential for automakers striving to maintain a competitive edge.
This regulatory move arises from increasing concerns about vehicle safety and various fatal accidents related to advanced driver-assistance systems. For instance, last month, a Xiaomi Su7 sedan erupted in flames after colliding with a pole just moments after the driver regained control from the ADAS.
The crackdown also follows Tesla’s introduction of its “Full Self-Driving software” branding for its advanced driver-assistance system. It’s pointed out that FSD is not a true self-driving system and requires human drivers to remain attentive. In the Chinese market, Tesla has since rebranded FSD to “Intelligent Assisted Driving.”
