China’s EV Giants Zeekr, Xpeng, and GAC Race to Launch L3 Autonomous Cars

Chinese EV makers Zeekr, Xpeng (NYSE:XPEV), and Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) are set to revolutionize smart driving with L3-ready autonomous technology, intensifying competition in China’s auto market. Zeekr will unveil its 9X SUV at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, with deliveries beginning in late 2025. Xpeng aims to achieve L3 software capabilities by year-end and mass-produce L4-ready models in 2026. GAC also plans to launch L3-ready vehicles in 2025, with L4 development underway.

These announcements mark a shift from the ongoing EV price war to a tech-driven competition. L3 autonomy allows hands-free driving for extended periods, though regulatory approval is required before commercial use. China, the world’s largest auto market, has permitted select automakers, including BYD (SZ:002594) and Nio (NYSE:NIO), to conduct public road tests for L3 vehicles.

BYD’s recent move to integrate smart driving technology at no extra cost has intensified competition, pushing other brands to enhance their offerings. Zeekr’s 9X SUV will feature five lidars and an Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) Thor-powered driving domain controller to ensure safety, despite increased production costs.

Under Chinese law, automakers bear legal responsibility for L3 system failures, while drivers must remain alert when using L2 systems, such as Tesla’s (NASDAQ:TSLA) Full Self-Driving. With cutting-edge AI and autonomous capabilities, China’s EV giants are vying to lead the next wave of smart mobility.