BUSINESS

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Trial in China Delayed by Regulatory Checks

Published: Mar. 26, 2025 4:00 a.m. GMT+8

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Signage at a Tesla store in Colma, California on March 10, 2025. Photo by Bloomberg

Tesla’s highly anticipated trial launch of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system in China has suffered a setback, as some users report not receiving the feature update due to a delay in regulatory approval.

Tesla China said Monday that it is working to secure government approval for both software and hardware under new national guidelines issued by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the State Administration for Market Regulation. The company said the trial will resume once all preparations are complete.

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Explore the story in 30 seconds

Tesla's Full Self-Driving system launch in China faces delays due to pending regulatory approval and new national guidelines requiring extensive compliance.
Internationally, Tesla's sales have been impacted by political controversies surrounding Elon Musk, causing a decline in U.S. and European sales amidst a competitive market.
Despite global challenges and geopolitical tensions, Tesla has maintained strong operations in China, benefiting from local incentives, but future uncertainties remain.

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What Happened When

Feb. 25, 2025：: Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system debuted in China.

Feb. 28, 2025：: New regulations introducing stricter requirements for intelligent connected vehicles were issued in China.

March 11, 2025：: Donald Trump purchased a Tesla Model S.

March 17, 2025：: Tesla announced a one-month free trial of FSD for eligible vehicles in China.

March 20, 2025：: Elon Musk held a company-wide meeting to boost internal morale and reassure investors.

March 24, 2025：: The FBI announced the formation of a special task force to investigate violent incidents targeting Tesla stores, and incendiary devices were found at a Tesla showroom in Austin, Texas.

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