China announced safety guidelines for the use of autonomous vehicles in public transport on Tuesday, which is the country's latest move to encourage autonomous driving in the world's largest auto market.
The guidelines, following a regulation issued in November that allows road trials of intelligent connected vehicles, will help pave the way for the commercial use of autonomous driving in China. It also clarifies safety requirements that provide a reference for all parties involved, including the developers and operators, industry observers said.
The guidelines apply to autonomous vehicles for passengers - including taxis - as well as cargo vehicles, said the Ministry of Transport.
Autonomous vehicles must operate within designated areas and pass road traffic safety assessments in accordance with the law.
Autonomous vehicles engaged in urban bus and passenger transportation should also have a driver or safety inspector. Fully autonomous vehicles operated as taxis may use remote safety inspectors, subject to local authorities' approval, and the ratio of remote safety personnel to vehicles shall be at least 1:3.
The exteriors of self-driving vehicles must be marked with eye-catching patterns, text or colors, the ministry said.
