Advertisement
In addition to sensor and chip development, the government plans to support “systematic access, authorised use and circulation” of data collected by driverless cars, and to reserve enough space for intelligent driving. The regulation would also require the establishment of a regulated sandbox for companies and institutions to test new technologies, scenarios and products in an “inclusive and prudent regulatory environment”.

Beijing has traditionally been overly cautious when it comes to road security owing to the city’s political importance. Now it is the latest Chinese city to show a greater appetite for fully embracing autonomous vehicles.
Certain entities will also be allowed to conduct mapping services using self-driving cars, including reviewing and updating maps, in addition to transmitting map data, according to the proposed regulation. Mapping activity is strictly regulated in China, limiting it mostly to state-owned entities or those affiliated with Big Tech companies.
Advertisement
The document, which is soliciting public opinion through July 29, aims to “promote and regulate the innovative activities of self-driving cars, the development of the industry and the construction of intelligent transport”, with the technology to be primarily applied to buses, taxis, freight, street cleaning and security patrols.