As automotive technology advances, Chinese car manufacturers are revising how they present their advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The term self driving is gradually being replaced by the more precise term L2 assisted driving. This shift reflects the companies’ efforts to boost user trust in new technology and comply with increasingly stringent safety regulations. Sales representatives now remind each customer to keep their hands on the wheel and stay focused even when assistance features are active.
China’s Regulatory Changes and Their Motivation
On April 16, 2025, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued a directive that mandated the clear disclosure of driver assistance system limitations and risks and prohibited any misleading promotion of self driving capabilities.
This directive was prompted by a tragic crash on March 29 in which three students died when a Xiaomi SU7, operating in Navigation on Autopilot mode, crashed at 97 km/h after the driver ignored repeated system warnings. In response, regulators moved to tighten oversight of advertising language, marketing materials, and operator training for advanced driver assistance functions.
Companies Respond with Updated Terminology
Xiaomi replaced “self driving” with “Pilot Pro Driving Assistance” for its Pilot Pro system and “HAD End to End Driving Assistance” for its HAD system on the SU7 order page. Official materials now emphasize that these systems support highway and open road scenarios and highlight that drivers must remain fully attentive rather than relying entirely on the technology.
At other brands such as NIO, XPeng, Li Auto, and Avatr, sales teams have confirmed that advanced driver support systems are classified as Level 2 and require continuous user supervision. Company representatives have also noted that these systems enhance comfort on long journeys by reducing driver fatigue and improving passenger relaxation during daily commutes in Gulf cities.
Launch of ADAS Insurance Policies to Enhance Assisted Driving Support
Changes in terminology coincided with several automakers introducing insurance policies designed for incidents involving assisted driving systems. XPeng rolled out an ADAS insurance policy to cover users for potential losses resulting from equipment failures or distracted driving.
Dealers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE responded by offering supplemental ADAS coverage and discounts on vehicles equipped with assisted driving systems. This initiative aims to increase buyer confidence in advanced driving technologies and alleviate liability concerns in the event of an accident.
Role of the Shanghai Auto Show in Promoting Information Transparency
At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, leading automakers highlighted the importance of transparent communication with consumers. Yu Chengdong of Huawei stressed that drivers must remain attentive when using advanced driver assistance systems.
He Xiaopeng of XPeng, meanwhile, replaced the term “self driving” with “intelligent driving assistance” to set clear public expectations. Executives from Changan Automobile and GAC Group also clarified their systems’ capabilities, confirming they are classified as Level 2 driver assistance and do not imply full vehicle autonomy.
Future Outlook for Driver Support Systems
Analysts predict that stringent regulations imposed on Chinese automakers will pave the way for a new era that balances safety, comfort, and luxury. Companies are expected to invest heavily in enhancing radar and camera performance as well as in refining software accuracy to recognize traffic scenarios more reliably and avoid collisions. They may also develop more spacious interiors, integrated in vehicle entertainment systems, and technologies for connected road infrastructure in Gulf cities.
The Saudi Arabian and UAE markets show rising demand for advanced vehicles as enthusiasts seek models that combine power, safety, and state of the art technologies. With clearer terminology and higher safety standards, Chinese manufacturers aim to strike a balance that meets drivers’ expectations for a confident driving experience, along with unparalleled performance and luxury.
My passion for cars began long before my journey into automotive journalism in 2015. Even though I'm originally a pharmacist, the thrill of speed, elegant designs, and roaring engines has always had my heart. Today, I channel this passion by exploring the newest cars and sharing my experiences with fellow car enthusiasts across the GCC.
