China-led international standards about autonomous driving testing scenarios released

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 7, China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology ("MIIT") announced the official release of ISO 34505:2025—Road Vehicles — Test Scenario Evaluation and Test Case Generation for Autonomous Driving Systems—a landmark international standard led by China. The release marks a significant milestone in the country's growing influence in the global rulemaking of autonomous driving technologies.

Baidu's Apollo Go Robotaxi; photo credit: Apollo Go

The new standard establishes core procedures and methodologies for evaluating test scenarios of autnomous driving systems. As a fundamental element in assessing system functionality and performance, the diversity, representativeness, and coverage of test scenarios directly impact the reliability of results. These scenarios also serve as a critical foundation for the "multi-pillar" validation approach—spanning simulation, closed-track testing, and more.

For the first time, the standard clearly defines how to assess test scenarios using key metrics such as exposure, complexity, and risk level. It also standardizes the essential features and basic principles for generating test cases, providing a systematic framework for scenario-based validation of autonomous driving systems.

The publication of ISO 34505 reflects growing international consensus on testing and verification technologies for autonomous vehicles. It lays a solid foundation for a complete application framework—from conceptual design and simulation modeling to scenario library development and physical test site construction. The standard not only supports the simulation and experimental assessment of self-driving technologies but also addresses pressing industry needs around safety evaluation.

Looking ahead, the MIIT said it will continue to mobilize institutions such as the China Automotive Technology and Research Center Co., Ltd. to deepen participation in international automotive standard-setting, aiming to enhance China's voice and contribution in the global automotive regulatory landscape.