Shenzhen Clarifies Autonomous Driving Still in Testing Phase; Citywide Access Aims for Orderly Exploration, Not Full Commercialization

Recently, in response to claims circulating on social media that "Shenzhen has fully opened its entire area to driverless vehicles," relevant Shenzhen authorities issued a clarification. According to Article 17 of the amended "Shenzhen Special Economic Zone Regulations on Intelligent and Connected Vehicles," the Shenzhen municipal government may orderly explore citywide road testing, demonstration applications, and pilot commercial operations. However, all intelligent and connected vehicles currently operating on roads remain in the testing and demonstration phase, and the municipal government has not yet introduced policies for full-scale commercial operation. The newly added provision aims to provide a legal basis for the government to expand testing on a broader scale. Specific timelines and road sections for opening will be implemented in phases based on road infrastructure readiness and safety assessment results from enterprises, ensuring a cautious and staged rollout rather than an immediate, citywide opening. Current tests cover scenarios such as unmanned logistics delivery, sanitation cleaning, security patrols, and autonomous shuttle buses, all conducted within pre-designated zones and specific operational segments to accumulate operational data and practical experience.