The AITO M8 extended-range SUV, a mid-to-large new energy model, on display at the 23rd Guangzhou International Auto Show on Nov. 28, 2025. Photo: VCG
Drivers remain legally liable for their vehicles, even when using advanced assistance systems and vacating the driver’s seat, China’s top court ruled in a guiding case released on Friday.
The Supreme People’s Court issued the case to establish a unified legal standard for courts nationwide. The ruling clarifies that, until full autonomy is achieved, human drivers retain primary responsibility, even when assistance technology is engaged. This decision sets a critical legal precedent as automakers race to deploy increasingly advanced technology, reinforcing that “hands-off” features do not absolve drivers of responsibility amid a growing regulatory crackdown on misuse and misleading marketing.
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date: 2026-02-14 04:34:00
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