Systemic Integration of EV and Autonomous Driving Technologies: A Study of China’s Intelligent Mobility Transition

This paper presents a pioneering and novel analysis of the synergistic relationship between China’s leadership in electric vehicle (EV) adoption and the rapid advancement of autonomous driving (AD) technologies within the nation’s mobility ecosystem. Challenging the conventional view of electrification as a parallel trend, this study introduces a new perspective by demonstrating how EV infrastructure serves as a fundamental enabler of autonomy, providing the necessary high-voltage architectures for critical AD functions like real-time sensor fusion and over-the-air updates. In doing so, it addresses the central research question: How does large-scale electrification influence the architecture, deployment, and safety development of autonomous driving vehicles, particularly in the context of China’s intelligent mobility ecosystem? Through technical analysis and industry examples, the paper offers original contributions by illustrating how EV-driven platforms overcome the inherent limitations of internal combustion engine systems, enhancing autonomous execution and system reliability. Furthermore, this research provides novel insights into China’s unique public–private innovation ecosystem, highlighting the role of vertically integrated startups and cross-sector coordination in driving AD development. By analyzing these previously overlooked systemic interactions, the paper posits that China’s EV dominance strategically amplifies its autonomous vehicle ambitions, positioning the nation to lead the next generation of intelligent transportation systems.