China is advancing its efforts to shape the future of the global automotive industry through a comprehensive regulatory framework addressing key technologies such as vehicle chips, artificial intelligence (AI), batteries, autonomous driving, and low-carbon development. On Tuesday, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology unveiled its 2026 work plan focused on automotive standardization, aiming to strengthen technical requirements and consolidate China’s leadership in electric vehicles (EVs) and automobile manufacturing.

The plan sets out an ambitious goal to complete a detailed blueprint for the industry’s standards system within the current 15th five-year plan period, which extends through 2025. Key priorities include establishing regulations for the expanding use of AI in vehicles, particularly in terms of testing protocols and security standards for AI models deployed in automated driving systems. The guidelines also emphasize the development of standards for large automotive models and end-to-end AI systems, critical technologies that support advanced driver assistance and autonomous driving functions.

Additionally, the ministry promised to accelerate the creation of standards related to automotive chips, while enhancing efforts focused on battery safety, charging infrastructure, and the advancement of solid-state battery technology. These measures reflect the strategic importance China places on securing its competitive edge in both core components and emerging automotive innovations.

Beyond its domestic agenda, China is signaling its intention to play a more prominent role in shaping international automotive regulations. The ministry highlighted plans to deepen engagement with United Nations automotive regulatory mechanisms, including those covering autonomous driving, EV safety, and battery longevity. Expanding international influence also involves promoting new global standards and supporting the founding of an international automotive science and technology organization to foster cross-border collaboration.

According to a report issued by the overseas edition of China’s state-run People’s Daily in August 2025, China currently leads or is involved in developing nearly 50 international standards spanning electric vehicles, intelligent connected vehicles, and vehicle safety. An Tiecheng, chairman of the China Automotive Technology and Research Centre, described the country’s automotive sector as entering “a new stage of development,” emphasizing the urgency of establishing global standards and enhancing international cooperation.

The outlined policies position China to not only drive domestic innovation and regulatory coherence but also to influence the global automotive industry’s trajectory amid rapidly evolving technologies and market demands.