China clears VW for Level 3 tests and Xpeng for Level 4 robotaxis

Volkswagen has received an L3 road-test licence in Hefei and targets technology readiness in 2027. Xpeng's Yoyo robotaxi, built on its GX SUV with four Turing AI chips rated at 3,000 TOPS, now qualifies for Level 4 demonstration operations across Guangzhou, initially by invitation code.

• VW began L3 road tests in Hefei, targeting readiness in 2027
• Xpeng Yoyo won approval for citywide L4 demo operations in Guangzhou
• The robotaxi uses four in-house Turing AI chips rated at 3,000 TOPS
• Xpeng aims for driverless passenger rides in 2027