The Models Lead Intelligent Future: AI-Empowered Autonomous Driving Innovation and Development Forum, part of the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, was held in Shanghai on July 26.

The forum focused on the deep integration of large AI models and intelligent autonomous driving, attracting more than 200 participants from government departments, universities, research institutions, automotive companies, and renowned tech firms.

During the forum, a new batch of demonstration operation licenses for intelligent connected vehicles were issued, meaning that Shanghai's intelligent connected vehicles have entered a new stage of regularized and large-scale operation. Two companies based in the Lin-gang Special Area, one being Shanghai Youdao Zhitu Technology Co, were granted the licenses.

Achievements in the construction of advanced autonomous driving training grounds in Shanghai were unveiled at the forum, signaling a major milestone in the city's development of core autonomous driving capabilities.

In a groundbreaking move, the Lin-gang Special Area officially launched an action plan for intelligent connected vehicles going abroad. The plan outlines the establishment of a "green channel" for data export, along with the introduction of a dual mechanism combining a negative list with operational guidelines, and a strategic layout covering industries related to research, testing, and global expansion.

The forum highlighted Shanghai's commitment to becoming a global leader in autonomous driving technology and innovation.