China bans turquoise lights used to signal autonomous driving

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has ordered manufacturers to stop using turquoise lights to indicate autonomous driving modes. These lights, which became a widely adopted visual standard for Level 3 and Level 4 autonomous vehicles, are being phased out because they do not comply with existing national regulation GB 4785.

Although the regulation—which permits only white, yellow, amber, and red lights—has been in effect since July 2020, manufacturers like Li Auto began using turquoise lights as early as 2022. The trend gained international visibility after Mercedes-Benz implemented similar lighting on its EQS models and other brands like Cadillac adopted the practice.

Regulators have cited that the lights are non-compliant with established standards. Additionally, concerns have been raised by drivers that the lights are excessively bright and can distract other motorists when positioned at eye level.