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A map will be created to show whether autonomous vehicles can be driven safely on major roads across the country.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced on the 3rd that it plans to create an autonomous driving map this year, covering major road networks such as highways, national roads, and provincial roads.
As of last month, the number of vehicles that have received temporary operation permits for autonomous driving technology verification in Korea has reached approximately 440. Starting in March next year, the distribution of Level 4 autonomous vehicles, which do not require driver intervention, will be expanded further when inter-company transactions are permitted.
Accordingly, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is developing an autonomous driving map that evaluates roads nationwide based on whether autonomous vehicles can operate reliably.
Last year, the evaluation of national highway sections was completed. This year, local roads are being evaluated. Korea Expressway Corporation also plans to conduct an evaluation of highways (excluding private sector sections) by the end of this year.
Autonomous driving maps are constructed by grouping similar road sections based on road geometry, vehicle flow, presence of tunnels and bridges, intersection types, etc. They are then evaluated to determine the degree to which autonomous driving is stably implemented through simulated and actual driving on representative sections of each type.
In the case of national roads, 133 types were identified and evaluated in representative sections covering 2,950 km (approximately 21% of the total).
In the simulation driving stage, various driving scenarios are set up, including not only general driving situations but also special situations such as night, fog, wet roads, and accidents. During this stage, it is checked whether safety is reduced, such as when the autonomous driving function is disabled or signals are not recognized.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport expects that the autonomous driving map being built will serve as the foundation for a groundbreaking change in autonomous driving policy in the future.
Instead of the current ‘positive approach’ that allows autonomous vehicle operation in limited areas such as pilot operation zones, the plan is to transition to a ‘negative approach’ that gradually expands the areas where autonomous vehicle operation is permitted.
Park Jin-ho, director of the Autonomous Driving Policy Division at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, said, “This time, objective data on road conditions related to the implementation of autonomous driving technology will be prepared. We will use this data to prepare for the accelerated commercialization of autonomous driving.”
Reporter Jo Hae-dong
Korea to Create Autonomous Driving Map for Nationwide Road Network
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Accelerating Autonomous Driving Commercialization in Korea
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) in South Korea is taking a significant step towards the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles. This year, the ministry plans to develop a comprehensive autonomous driving map that will meticulously assess the suitability of major roads across the country for self-driving vehicles. This initiative signifies a crucial shift in the nation’s autonomous driving policy, moving towards a more proactive approach to the commercialization of this technology.
The Need for an Autonomous Driving Map
The rapid advancement of autonomous driving technology necessitates a robust infrastructure to support its implementation. With the number of vehicles granted temporary permits for autonomous driving testing in Korea reaching nearly 440, the demand for a reliable and comprehensive assessment of road conditions is paramount. This map will provide crucial insights into the safety and feasibility of autonomous vehicle deployment on various road types, paving the way for wider adoption.
A Comprehensive Assessment of Road Networks
MOLIT’s ambitious plan involves evaluating highways, national roads, and provincial roads throughout Korea. This meticulous assessment will consider a wide range of factors that influence autonomous vehicle performance, including:
- Road geometry and design
- Traffic flow and density
- Presence of tunnels and bridges
- Intersection types and complexity
- Environmental conditions (e.g., lighting, weather)
This comprehensive evaluation will ensure that the autonomous driving map not only identifies safe and suitable roads but also pinpoints areas that require improvements or adjustments to accommodate self-driving vehicles. The map will serve as a valuable resource for autonomous vehicle manufacturers, developers, and policymakers.
Simulations and Real-World Testing for Robust Data
The development of the autonomous driving map will involve a two-pronged approach: simulations and real-world testing. Simulations will use advanced software to evaluate various driving scenarios, including:
- General driving conditions
- Challenging situations (e.g., night, fog, rain, accidents)
- Potential safety risks (e.g., malfunctioning autonomous functions, sensor limitations)
Real-world tests will be conducted on representative sections of roads to gather actual data under diverse conditions. This combination of simulated and real-world testing will provide a comprehensive and reliable assessment of road suitability for autonomous vehicle operation.
A Shift Towards a “Negative Approach” in Autonomous Driving Policy
The autonomous driving map is not merely an infrastructure project; it represents a significant shift in Korea’s autonomous driving policy. Past initiatives have focused on a “positive approach,” allowing autonomous vehicle operation in specific pilot zones with limited scope. The creation of this nationwide map signifies a transition to a “negative approach,” where the emphasis is on gradually expanding the areas where autonomous vehicles are permitted to operate. This shift reflects growing confidence in the technology and a desire to integrate autonomous vehicles seamlessly into the broader transportation ecosystem.
Benefits of the Autonomous Driving Map
The development of a comprehensive autonomous driving map for Korea offers numerous benefits, including:
- **Enhanced safety for autonomous vehicles:** The map will identify areas where self-driving vehicles can operate safely and reliably, minimizing potential risks due to road conditions or environmental factors.
- **Streamlined commercialization of autonomous driving:** By providing clear guidelines and data, the map will facilitate the transition towards the commercialization of autonomous vehicles, paving the way for wider adoption and market penetration.
- **Informed policymaking:** The map will equip policymakers with valuable insights into road conditions and the readiness of infrastructure for autonomous vehicles, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding regulations, investments, and future strategies for autonomous driving.
- **Improved road infrastructure:** The map will highlight areas that require adjustments or improvements to accommodate autonomous vehicles, leading to safer and more efficient transportation infrastructure for everyone.
Accelerating the Future of Mobility
The development of a nationwide autonomous driving map marks a significant step towards achieving a future where autonomous vehicles play a vital role in transportation systems. By providing reliable data, fostering a proactive policy environment, and driving technological advancements, Korea is well-positioned to become a global leader in the autonomous driving revolution.