China is preparing a comprehensive reform of its Road Traffic Safety Law, introducing for the first time a dedicated chapter on autonomous vehicles as the country accelerates the adoption of next-generation mobility technologies, such as robotaxis.
The draft amendment was submitted today for an initial reading before the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, China’s top legislative body, according to state news agency Xinhua.
Comprising nine chapters and 170 articles, the proposed legislation includes special provisions defining autonomous vehicles and driver-assistance features, while also addressing regulatory frameworks for electric bicycles and emerging road safety challenges.
Key provisions of the draft bill establish clear liability rules for self-driving technology:
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If an autonomous vehicle commits a traffic violation while its automated driving features are engaged, liability falls directly on the vehicle’s manufacturer or importer. Autonomous vehicles operating with automated features deactivated, as well as vehicles equipped solely with driver-assistance systems, remain subject to standard traffic regulations governing conventional vehicles.
The legislative push follows increased scrutiny from Chinese authorities after an operational incident in April in Wuhan, central China, which temporarily halted the issuance of new robotaxi operating licenses.
During the incident, more than 100 autonomous vehicles operated by tech giant Baidu suddenly immobilized across city streets. While no collisions or injuries were reported, the breakdown triggered widespread traffic disruption and stranded passengers, prompting a temporary safety audit across the sector.
Despite regulatory adjustments, autonomous testing and commercial deployments have steadily resumed. Major domestic operators including Baidu, Pony.ai, and WeRide continue to expand commercial robotaxi services across several Chinese metropolises, alongside foreign automakers such as Tesla, which seeks to expand its advanced driver-assistance capabilities in the Chinese market.
