Shanghai's Jiading unveils first batch of industrial innovation scenarios

Shanghai's Jiading district launched its first batch of 15 industrial application scenarios on Friday, targeting emerging sectors including automotive electrification, integrated circuits, and embodied intelligence, as part of its strategy to transition from policy incentives to opportunity-driven growth.

The scenarios, ranging from the Shanghai International Proving Ground to the Embodied AI & Robotics Training Hub and Jiading District Intelligent Connected Vehicle (Shanghai) Pilot Demonstration Zone, aim to foster cross-industry collaboration.

"Jiading will empower industrial development by creating opportunities rather than merely offering preferential policies," said Lu Zufang, deputy governor of Jiading district.

Operated by the Shanghai Motor Vehicle Inspection Certification & Tech Innovation Center Co Ltd (SMVIC), the upgraded Shanghai International Proving Ground, formerly a Volkswagen testing facility, opened to all industry players starting in January 2025.

Zhou Wei, deputy general manager of SMVIC, outlined its expanded role: "Beyond vehicle and component testing, we will offer autonomous driving simulations, smart cockpit evaluations, and export certification."

Zhou revealed ambitions to build an over 10 billion yuan ($1.37 billion) auto inspection hub in East China within three years, while diversifying into drone and humanoid robot testing. SMVIC is also constructing a low-altitude economy proving ground in Liyang, Jiangsu province, for sub-25kg drones and exploring robotics standards with embodied intelligence firms.

Beyond industrial uses, the test track complex has hosted cultural events such as music festivals, with more concerts and carnivals planned to enhance public interaction.