The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) announced on Monday that Changan Automobile and BAIC were given the go-ahead to build electric vehicles (EVs) that would allow drivers to be hands off in some circumstances.
But the cars, both pure EVs, could only navigate urban streets and highways in designated areas, the ministry said on its website.
“The two companies have passed the tests for the two models and relevant safety reviews,” it said, adding that the ministry would collaborate with other authorities to monitor the vehicles while promoting the development of smart driving industries in China.
The MIIT did not say when the two cars would hit the market. Technically, carmakers can start assembling the models once they receive the green light from the ministry.
At present, most driver-assistance systems used in intelligent cars are classified as either L2 or L2+, which require drivers to keep their hands on the wheel at all times.
