Reference News Network, October 22 report - According to the South China Morning Post website on October 20, as the competition in the global autonomous driving field intensifies, Europe has become the latest front line for China's rapidly developing autonomous driving technology.
Startups such as Pony.ai, WeRide, AnTu, Yindao Qixing, and Baidu's Apollo Go are developing testing projects and building partnerships in multiple cities across Europe.
Initially, this was a domestic competition aimed at surpassing U.S. companies such as "Mobility New Way" and Cruise Automation. Now, it has evolved into a contest across the continent.
China's shift of focus to Europe is driven by both opportunity and necessity. After years of restrictions imposed by the United States on Chinese artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies, the European market has become an alternative, where the regulatory system is more fragmented and open to innovation.
The European Commission plans to achieve large-scale application of autonomous driving technology by 2030. At the same time, European cities such as Hamburg and Gothenburg have established dedicated smart driving demonstration zones.
In addition to economic aspects, expanding into the European market also carries significant strategic importance. The European automotive ecosystem not only provides Chinese companies with opportunities for technological collaboration, but also helps China establish a voice in the formulation of future mobility standards.
Over the past two years, the layout of Chinese autonomous driving companies in Europe has accelerated its expansion. Pony.ai has set up an European R&D center in Luxembourg, serving as a base for the research and development and testing of autonomous driving technology. This expansion strategy is very similar to that of Chinese electric vehicle brands such as BYD and NIO, which use Europe as a stepping stone to enter the global market.
Against the backdrop of tightened export controls in the United States, China is expanding its influence through civilian technology. As Chinese companies integrate into European innovation clusters, they are not only exporting cars, but also governance models and data architectures.
This is a form of "driving diplomacy," establishing global influence through technical standards that power the future economy, rather than ideology.
Europe's willingness to accept these testing projects is driven by both economic needs and political pragmatism. European cities view automation as a way to revitalize industry and reduce carbon footprints, and China's autonomous driving systems offer cost-competitive mature solutions. (Translated by Wang Dongdong)
On September 27, the 2025 World New Energy Vehicle Conference was held in Haikou City, Hainan Province. Visitors watched the displayed autonomous rental car products. (Xinhua)
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7563862846602281524/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author. Please express your opinion by clicking the [Top/Down] buttons below.