China is at the forefront of autonomous vehicle development, with several domestic automakers and tech companies pushing the boundaries of self-driving cars. These vehicles integrate Level 2 to Level 4 autonomy, leveraging AI, LiDAR, and 5G connectivity. Here’s a look at the best self-driving cars made in China and the companies leading the charge.

1. XPeng P7 – Smart Autonomous Sedan

  • Autonomy Level: Upgradable to Level 3
  • Key Features:
  • XPILOT 3.5 with LiDAR
  • Highway autonomous driving
  • Urban NGP (Navigation Guided Pilot)
  • Why It Stands Out: One of the most advanced autonomous systems in China, with over-the-air updates and real-time learning.

2. NIO ET7 – Premium Autonomous EV with LiDAR

  • Autonomy Level: Level 2+ with hardware for Level 4
  • Key Features:
  • NVIDIA DRIVE Orin platform
  • 1550nm LiDAR for enhanced object detection
  • Smart parking and highway pilot assist
  • Why It Stands Out: Combines luxury with high-tech autonomous capabilities, targeting premium EV buyers.

3. Li Xiang L9 – Intelligent Family SUV with Advanced ADAS

  • Autonomy Level: Level 2+
  • Key Features:
  • Li ONE autonomous driving system
  • Highway NOA (Navigate on Autopilot)
  • Smart parking and obstacle detection
  • Why It Stands Out: Designed for families with intelligent driving systems that reduce driver fatigue on long trips.

4. BAIC Arcfox α-S Huawei Edition – Huawei-Powered Autonomous EV

  • Autonomy Level: Level 4 (in testing)
  • Key Features:
  • Huawei ADS system with 3 LiDARs
  • Autonomous parking and highway driving
  • AI-powered object recognition and path planning
  • Why It Stands Out: A joint venture with Huawei, offering one of the most advanced autonomous driving systems in China.

5. Baidu Jidu ROBO-01 – Fully Autonomous Concept Car

  • Autonomy Level: Level 4 (concept stage)
  • Key Features:
  • 52 sensors including LiDAR
  • AI-powered voice and gesture control
  • Over-the-air updates and smart cabin integration
  • Why It Stands Out: Developed by Baidu and Geely, this car represents the future of fully autonomous mobility in China.

6. SAIC IM-Observe 18 – AI-Driven Concept Vehicle

  • Autonomy Level: Level 4 (concept)
  • Key Features:
  • AI-powered autonomous driving
  • Gesture and voice-controlled interface
  • Smart cabin and emotional interaction system
  • Why It Stands Out: A glimpse into SAIC’s autonomous future with a strong focus on AI and smart mobility.

7. DeepRoute-Driver – Self-Driving Tech Platform

  • Autonomy Level: Level 4 (testing phase)
  • Key Features:
  • Self-driving system for ride-hailing and logistics
  • High-definition mapping and real-time route planning
  • AI-based perception and decision-making
  • Why It Stands Out: A leading Chinese autonomous driving startup with partnerships across major automakers and mobility services.

8. Huawei AITO M5 EV – Huawei ADS Integration

  • Autonomy Level: Level 2+
  • Key Features:
  • Huawei ADS system
  • Smart highway and urban driving assistance
  • Seamless integration with Huawei’s ecosystem
  • Why It Stands Out: Huawei’s expertise in AI and 5G enhances the car’s autonomous and connectivity features.

9. WeRide RoboTaxi – Fully Autonomous Ride-Hailing Fleet

  • Autonomy Level: Level 4
  • Key Features:
  • Fully driverless operation
  • Real-time mapping and sensor fusion
  • Used in ride-hailing and logistics
  • Why It Stands Out: One of China’s most mature autonomous mobility platforms, already operating in multiple cities.

10. QCraft – AI-Driven Autonomous Mobility

  • Autonomy Level: Level 4
  • Key Features:
  • AI-based perception and planning
  • Smart urban driving and ride-hailing integration
  • Scalable for commercial use
  • Why It Stands Out: A startup backed by Alibaba, Tencent, and Sequoia, focusing on commercial autonomous mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are self-driving cars legal in China?
Yes, Level 2 and Level 3 autonomous cars are legal for consumer use. Level 4 vehicles are currently in testing and limited deployment in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.

Q2: Which Chinese companies are leading in autonomous driving?
Top players include XPeng, NIO, Li Auto, Baidu, Huawei, DeepRoute, and WeRide. These companies are developing both consumer and commercial autonomous driving systems.

Q3: Can I buy a self-driving car in China today?
Yes, many Level 2+ autonomous cars are available for purchase from brands like XPeng, NIO, and Li Auto. Fully autonomous vehicles are still in testing and ride-hailing services.

Conclusion

China is rapidly advancing in autonomous driving, with brands like XPeng, NIO, Baidu, Huawei, and WeRide leading the way. From consumer EVs with Level 2+ autonomy to fully driverless Level 4 taxis, the country is reshaping the future of mobility with smart, AI-powered self-driving cars.