China has introduced stringent regulations on autonomous driving and online software updates for intelligent connected vehicles.
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the State Administration for Market Regulation have jointly issued the “Notice on Further Strengthening the Management of Intelligent Connected Vehicle Product Access, Recalls and Online Software Upgrades” to enhance oversight and safety standards in the sector.
The notice seeks to improve the safety management system for intelligent connected vehicles, reinforcing manufacturers’ responsibilities and ensuring compliance with updated safety requirements.
The regulatory framework also aims to streamline industry management by coordinating vehicle access, recall procedures, and software updates while reducing the compliance burden for enterprises.
As per the new regulation, automakers must submit technical details on driving assistance systems and over-the-air (OTA) upgrades when applying for market access.
Additionally, approved vehicles will be subject to a supervisory mechanism to balance technological innovation with risk control.
OTA upgrade management is also being strengthened with enhanced classification and traceability mechanisms to mitigate potential safety risks.
Certain upgrades addressing safety defects will be regulated under recall management procedures.
The new rule further mandates an improved reporting system for vehicle-related incidents and accidents.
Companies with market-approved intelligent connected vehicles are required to submit supplementary technical data by 1 June 2025.
A press statement from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology reads: “If an enterprise implements OTA upgrade activities to eliminate defects in automobile products and implement recalls, it shall organise and implement them in accordance with the ‘Implementation Measures for the Recall Management Regulations of Defective Automobile Products’ and immediately stop the production and sale of defective automobile products.”
Recently, Tesla rolled out an update to its autopilot software in China. This includes enhancements such as automatic lane-changing based on speed and route, as well as the capability to recognise traffic lights at intersections and make turning decisions.
