China’s first batch of L3-level autonomous vehicles officially hit public roads in Chongqing on Thursday afternoon, marking a milestone in the country’s self-driving technology deployment.

A total of 46 vehicles, all Changan Deep Blue cars equipped with L3 autonomous driving systems, were approved to operate on the city’s Inner Ring Expressway, New Inner Ring Expressway (Gaotan Rock Interchange–Laijiaqiao Interchange), and Yudu Avenue (Renhe Interchange–Airport Interchange).

Authorities said the move represents a significant step toward large-scale commercial operation of higher-level autonomous vehicles in China, providing real-world testing opportunities while adhering to traffic safety regulations.