China Issues Safety Guidelines for Autonomous Public Transport Vehicles
Updated: Jan 5
China has recently released safety guidelines for the use of autonomous vehicles in public transport, as part of its preparations for the increased adoption of driverless cars.
The guidelines, issued by the Ministry of Transport, apply to autonomous vehicles used for passenger transportation, including taxis, as well as for freight.
According to the guidelines, vehicles with varying degrees of automation must have at least one driver or security inspector on board. Companies using autonomous vehicles for public transport must be qualified and licensed and they are encouraged to collaborate with automakers for the smooth operation of such services.
Xue Jiancong, president of the innovation unit at Chinese logistics company FOR-U Smart Freight, believes that these guidelines will accelerate the adoption of autonomous driving technologies in China. He noted that unlike their U.S. counterparts, Chinese regulators focus more on regulating automakers and fleet operators rather than software developers.
China, the world's largest auto market, has been actively working on establishing standards and regulations for autonomous driving. The country aims to develop a system that supports assisted and autonomous driving functions by 2025 and plans to introduce standards that facilitate the development of autonomous driving applications and establish a safety assurance system by 2030.
In recent months, China has taken several steps to promote autonomous driving. Last month, it announced that it would allow road trials of intelligent connected vehicles. In October, guidelines were issued for highway engineering facilities to support autonomous driving technology. And in July, guidelines were released for the standardisation of intelligent connected vehicles.
These safety guidelines for autonomous public transport vehicles in China mark another significant move towards the widespread adoption of autonomous driving technology. With the implementation of these regulations, China is positioning itself as a leader in the development and deployment of autonomous vehicles.
China has issued safety guidelines for the use of autonomous vehicles in public transport.
The guidelines apply to autonomous vehicles used for passenger transportation and freight.
Vehicles must have at least one driver or security inspector on board.
Companies using autonomous vehicles for public transport must be qualified and licensed.
Source: REUTERS