Pioneering Autonomous Driving: IM Motors Venture into Level 3 EVs in China
In the dynamic landscape of electric vehicles, IM Motors, the subsidiary of SAIC Motor, a major player listed on the stock exchange as 600104.SS, has formally submitted an application to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). Their objective: securing approval for the introduction of Level 3 autonomous driving cars. With solid backing from Alibaba Group (9988.HK), IM Motors stands on the precipice of potential approval, positioning its electric fleet as a paragon of genuine and profound autonomy.
Regulatory Evolution: A Shifting Landscape in Chinese Autonomy
Over the past five years, Chinese regulators have granted companies the latitude to conduct city road tests, laying the groundwork for recent policy revisions. These revisions are strategically designed to expedite the widespread adoption of autonomous driving technologies. A pivotal moment occurred in November with MIIT’s issuance of a comprehensive notice. This notice outlined a nationwide pilot program meticulously addressing the admission and on-road operation of vehicles equipped with Level 3 (L3) and Level 4 (L4) autonomous driving capabilities. This strategic initiative marks a significant leap forward, bringing highly autonomous vehicles closer to the market and the embrace of individual buyers and fleet operators alike.
Anticipated Milestone: The Dawn of Approved Models
Credible reports from Caixin, a distinguished Chinese media outlet, hint at the imminent emergence of the first batch of approved models in the initial quarter of 2024. This impending milestone underscores a pivotal turning point in the trajectory of autonomous driving in China. It not only highlights the industry’s remarkable technological strides but also showcases the regulatory framework’s nimble responsiveness to seamlessly integrate highly autonomous vehicles into the dynamic market landscape.
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