In Pictures: Volkswagen China secures L3 autonomous driving test permit in Hefei, targets 2027 readiness

Volkswagen's L3 test permit puts its autonomous driving program on the streets of Hefei, China.

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The Hefei permit allows public-road testing as VW works toward L3 readiness in China by 2027.

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VW says testing is already underway, with large-scale data collection supporting its L3 development.

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The approval covers road testing rather than a product launch, keeping VW in catch-up mode with Chinese brands.

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Level 3 systems are designed to let drivers disengage from the driving task under defined conditions.

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VW's China program aims to close the gap with domestic automakers already holding L3 test permits.

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Autonomous testing in Hefei adds to VW's push for technology readiness across its China operations.

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Chinese brands secured L3 permits earlier, and VW is now working to match their pace.

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The permit advances VW's goal of L3 technology readiness in China by 2027, though commercialization remains ahead.

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