XPENG(US:XPEV) 3 6 Ke·2025-06-04 13:25Core Viewpoint - The automatic emergency braking system (AEB) is transitioning from an optional feature to a mandatory standard in China, driven by new regulations set to take effect in May 2025, indicating a shift towards prioritizing active safety technologies in the automotive industry [1][4]. Industry Overview - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) is drafting mandatory technical requirements for AEB, which will increase the installation rate of this safety feature across various vehicle models [1][4]. - Currently, the overall installation rate of AEB in China is below 60%, with entry-level vehicles priced under 80,000 yuan having an AEB installation rate of only 2.6% [3][4]. Regulatory Changes - The new regulations will require all M1 class passenger vehicles and N1 class light trucks to be equipped with AEB, expanding the base of covered models by 30%, which translates to approximately 25 million new vehicles needing AEB installation annually [4]. - The AEB standards will align with international regulations (UN-R152) and will include specific performance requirements for various scenarios, including low visibility conditions and the ability to respond to vulnerable road users [4][6]. Technical Specifications - The new AEB standards will require systems to operate effectively at speeds between 20 to 60 km/h, with a maximum false trigger rate of less than 0.1% [4][6]. - AEB systems must demonstrate a minimum pass rate of 90% in vehicle-to-vehicle tests and 80% in vehicle-to-pedestrian/bicycle tests [4]. Market Implications - The introduction of mandatory AEB standards is expected to eliminate the perception of AEB as a luxury feature and instead position it as a necessary component of vehicle safety [3][6]. - The automotive industry will face increased pressure to enhance the reliability and performance of AEB systems, as subpar technology may lead to significant market disadvantages [6][8]. Competitive Landscape - The global trend towards mandatory AEB installation is evident, with regions like the EU and the US already implementing similar regulations [6][8]. - The debate among automotive manufacturers regarding AEB technology highlights the competitive nature of the industry, with companies like Huawei and XPeng engaging in public discussions about the effectiveness and reliability of their AEB systems [8][9]. Technical Challenges - AEB systems face challenges related to sensor limitations, including issues with false positives and missed detections, which can lead to safety risks [23][24]. - The balance between timely intervention and allowing driver response time is critical for AEB systems, as premature activation can lead to accidents [20][25].