Cars that don't need a driver are the central theme of the Auto China 2026 motor show in Beijing. The exhibition opened on April 24 and has already set a clear timeline: by 2027, China will move toward the mass deployment of Level 3 autonomous driving.

Vehicles at this level are capable of driving themselves but still require a human to be present as a backup. According to Qiu Chao of Huawei, the industry is on the verge of a breakthrough, but three challenges must be addressed first: proving a tenfold higher safety standard in real-world conditions, refining legislation on the distribution of liability between driver and manufacturer, and giving the public time to get used to driverless cars on the streets.

The next step — Level 4 — will allow the driver to leave the seat entirely. "That era will certainly come," Qiu said confidently.

Auto China 2026 has already made history as the world's largest motor show: 380,000 square meters of exhibition space, 1,451 vehicles, 181 premieres, and 71 concept cars. Companies from 21 countries are taking part.