Volkswagen to Launch Its First Level 3 Autonomous Vehicle in China by 2027
German automaker expands its autonomous driving ambitions through a strategic partnership with Horizon Robotics to accelerate AI-powered mobility.
Volkswagen has announced plans to introduce its first Level 3 autonomous driving vehicle in the Chinese market during the second half of 2027, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to strengthen its position in the world’s largest automotive market.
The upcoming vehicle will feature Level 3 autonomous driving technology, allowing drivers to temporarily hand over driving responsibilities to the vehicle under specific traffic and road conditions, particularly on highways. Unlike Level 2 driver assistance systems, Level 3 technology enables the vehicle to manage key driving functions independently while remaining capable of returning control to the driver when necessary.
To accelerate development, Volkswagen is expanding its collaboration with Chinese technology company Horizon Robotics through their joint venture CARIZON, established in 2022. The partnership focuses on developing advanced artificial intelligence software specifically designed for intelligent driving systems tailored to the Chinese market.
Volkswagen stated that integrating Horizon Robotics’ AI expertise will significantly enhance its software capabilities, enabling faster development cycles and improved autonomous driving performance. The move reflects the growing importance of software and AI as key competitive advantages within the global automotive industry.
The Chinese market has become one of the world’s leading testing grounds for autonomous driving technologies. Domestic manufacturers, including several electric vehicle startups, have rapidly introduced advanced driver assistance systems across a wide range of models, intensifying competition among both local and international automakers.
Under Level 3 automation, drivers can temporarily remove their hands from the steering wheel and shift their attention away from driving while the vehicle controls acceleration, braking, and steering in approved operating conditions. However, drivers must remain available to resume control whenever the system requests intervention.
Volkswagen’s latest announcement demonstrates the company’s commitment to accelerating its digital transformation and strengthening its competitiveness in China’s rapidly evolving smart mobility sector. As consumers increasingly demand intelligent driving features, global manufacturers are investing heavily in AI-powered technologies to remain competitive.
The launch is expected to position Volkswagen among the growing number of automakers offering higher levels of autonomous driving capability, as China continues to lead the global adoption of intelligent and connected vehicle technologies.
