China is drafting technology standards for autonomous vehicles and setting up test bases, an official said at the State Council Information Office’s press conference on Feb. 7.

“We are working with relevant departments to formulate polices and guidelines for road tests, so as to drive autonomous vehicle technology forward,” said Transport Minister Li Xiaopeng.

Experts believe that autonomous driving technology can improve transport safety and efficiency, making the transport industry environmental friendly and improving the service quality, Li added.

“China has made breakthroughs in autonomous ships and automated rail transportation. The country is further promoting studies on autonomous driving technology”, Li said.

On December 18, 2017, Beijing issued the country’s first guidelines on road tests for self-driving vehicles. A test location was selected at Yizhuang, Beijing’s Daxing District, Beijing Evening News reported.

“Although autonomous technology can bring a prosperous future to the transport industry, its mass application still needs time and more research, development, and improvements, as well as tests,” Li noted.