Shanghai Advances Autonomous Driving with New Demonstration Licenses

At the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), Shanghai took a major step toward the commercialization of autonomous vehicles by issuing a new batch of demonstration operation licenses for intelligent connected vehicles. Leading companies, including Apollo Go, were among the first to receive these permits, enabling them to operate in designated urban areas.

Expanded Testing Zones in Pudong

With these licenses, autonomous driving services will be available in key functional areas of Pudong New Area, such as:

• Jinqiao (business district)
• Huamu (residential zone)
• Shibo (exhibition hub)

These locations provide diverse environments—from commercial to residential—allowing companies to test and refine their technology in real-world urban settings.

Apollo Go’s Dual Achievement

Beyond securing the license, Apollo Go was also featured in this year’s China Artificial Intelligence Industry Innovation Exhibition, underscoring its leadership in autonomous driving technology. The company further demonstrated its capabilities by providing L4-level autonomous shuttles for WAIC attendees, offering a firsthand experience of high-level self-driving technology.

From Demonstration to Real-World Service

The inclusion of autonomous shuttles at WAIC signifies a shift from theoretical showcases to practical service applications. Attendees could ride these vehicles, experiencing how the technology performs in controlled yet realistic conditions.

Key Points

• Shanghai issued new autonomous driving permits at WAIC 2025, with Apollo Go among the approved companies.
• Testing will occur in Pudong’s Jinqiao, Huamu, and Shibo districts, covering business, residential, and exhibition zones.
• Apollo Go showcased L4-level autonomous shuttles, highlighting progress toward commercialization.
• The initiative reflects Shanghai’s commitment to becoming a leader in smart mobility solutions.