China is rapidly moving towards adopting its autonomous (self-driving) driving technology. According to a report, by 2024, around 15 million (1.5 crore) new cars will feature at least Level 2 (L2) self-driving capabilities. By 2025, it is estimated that two-thirds of new cars sold in China will have L2 or higher automation technology. Automakers, who are competing in an evolving market, are trying to stay ahead in this technological field by using Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in their vehicles.
In 2024, China’s auto industry saw a year-on-year growth of 5.5%, leading to a total of 22.9 million vehicle deliveries. In India too, major automakers are now attracting customers through ADAS, a technology that was initially considered exclusive to the premium segment but is now being included in budget models as well.
According to the report, about 15 million new cars with self-driving technology will be on the roads in China this year. This technology will not only be available in premium cars but also in vehicles priced under 100,000 yuan (around 12 lakh rupees), as the cost of the technology has decreased.
These cars will feature at least Level 2 (L2) self-driving capabilities, meaning these cars can control steering, acceleration, and deceleration, but the driver may still need to take control occasionally.
The Secretary-General of China EV100 says that by 2025, two out of three new cars sold in China will have L2 or higher self-driving capabilities. The report also mentions that in 2024, Chinese manufacturers sold 22.9 million cars domestically and internationally, including both electric and petrol variants. Additionally, it is expected that the company BYD plans to make cars under 100,000 yuan that will feature initial ADAS technology. Currently, most ADAS-equipped cars made in China are priced above 150,000 yuan. If this happens, it could revolutionize China’s automobile market.