California data shows a dramatic decline in self-driving car testing by Chinese companies, highlighting the growing rift between the US and China over advanced technology.
The total distance traveled by Chinese companies' autonomous vehicles in California during road tests plummeted by roughly 70% in 2023, raising concerns about the potential impact on their global deployment. This decline coincides with heightened scrutiny from the US government, particularly regarding data collection practices in connected cars developed by Chinese companies.
President Biden ordered an investigation into these technologies due to potential national security risks. The data used in this analysis covers autonomous vehicle testing on public roads in California, both with and without a safety driver present, for the period ending in November 2023.
Five major Chinese companies - Pony.ai, WeRide, Baidu, AutoX, and Didi Global - collectively logged only around 200,000 kilometers during the period, a significant drop compared to 2022 figures. Notably, AutoX and Didi witnessed an even steeper decline, with their testing distances falling by 84% and 90% respectively.
Previously, Chinese developers used US testing grounds not only to evaluate their systems in diverse road conditions but also to attract skilled professionals. However, growing concerns in the US about potential risks associated with these trials have led to increased scrutiny.
A bipartisan group of lawmakers recently pressed 10 Chinese-linked companies to provide details about the data they collect during autonomous vehicle testing in California and other locations. While the US government has yet to completely bar Chinese companies from participating in self-driving car testing, recent cases involving individuals accused of attempting to steal autonomous technology for Chinese companies raise security concerns.
Furthermore, Chinese manufacturers are questioning their continued active role in developing autonomous vehicles amid the uncertain market landscape and growing tensions with the US.
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