Chinese authorities have recently heightened their efforts to regulate the deployment and marketing of software in the smart driving space. This move comes in response to concerns surrounding the misuse of driver assistance systems and the need to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers on the road.
According to reports, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in China recently conducted a closed-door meeting with representatives from 20 companies on April 16. During the meeting, car companies were urged to refrain from using terms like “self-driving,” “autonomous driving,” and “smart driving” in their marketing materials. Instead, they were advised to use the term “combined assisted driving” to provide more accurate information to consumers.
Additionally, the MIIT emphasized the importance of conducting thorough testing and validation of driver assistance features before implementing software updates via OTA (over the air) channels. These updates should only be provided to vehicles after completing sufficient verification to ensure safety and functionality. In cases where emergency updates are necessary, car companies were instructed to treat them as recalls or production halts to avoid any potential risks.
Recent reports from Reuters also confirmed the contents of the meeting, with one attendee corroborating the details shared during the session. The MIIT issued a brief statement acknowledging the meeting and the participation of nearly 60 delegates from major car manufacturers.
Experts from the China automotive industry associations have highlighted the importance of regulating the marketing of driver assistance features to prevent consumer confusion and potential misuse. They emphasized the need for car companies to provide clear information about the level of driving automation, system capabilities, and safety measures to avoid misleading consumers.
The stricter scrutiny on smart driving technology follows a fatal accident involving Xiaomi’s SU7 sedan in late March. The incident raised concerns about the misuse of driver assistance systems and the potential risks associated with relying too heavily on these technologies.
As the smart driving technology continues to evolve rapidly, it is crucial for regulators and industry players to work together to ensure the safe and responsible deployment of driver assistance systems. By providing accurate information, conducting thorough testing, and educating users about the capabilities and limitations of these technologies, we can help create a safer environment for all road users.
