Driverless ‘Type B Autonomous Vehicle’ Speed Increased from 25km/h to 40km/h
First Temporary Operation Permit Issued in Korea…Expansion of Public Road Operations, ‘[Edaily Reporter Kim Beom-jun] Lotte Innovate (286940) announced on the 21st that it has acquired the first temporary operation permit in Korea for an autonomous shuttle without a driver’s seat, allowing a maximum speed of 40 km/h.’,
Lotte Innovate’s ‘Type B Autonomous Vehicle’ autonomous shuttle appearance. (Photo: Lotte Innovate),
Previously, the permitted ‘Type B Autonomous Vehicle’ could travel at a maximum of 25 km/h. The Type B autonomous vehicle is without a steering wheel or pedals, featuring a test driver seated inside. It differs from Type A, where a safety driver is seated, and Type C, which includes autonomous delivery and cleaning robots.
Lotte Innovate secured the ability to travel at 40 km/h by passing the Korea Transportation Safety Authority’s automotive safety standard certification tests, including the development of a locally made frame and EV battery BMS (Battery Management System), EV battery certification tests, electromagnetic compatibility tests, and high-power electrical device safety tests.
Additionally, the vehicle passed certifications for its driving capabilities, such as lane maintenance and changes and merging, by enhancing its AI perception software that uses LiDAR sensors to recognize signals, lanes, and objects, as well as improving safety measures for unexpected situations. With this certification, Lotte Innovate can operate at 40 km/h, 60% faster than before, allowing it to travel at speeds similar to regular vehicles without significantly disrupting urban traffic flow.
Lotte Innovate acquired its first Type B autonomous vehicle temporary operation permit in Korea in 2021 and has accumulated about 50,000 km of urban driving experience in Sejong City, Gangneung in Gangwon, Suncheon in Jeollanam-do, and Naepo New Town in Chungcheongnam-do. Currently, Lotte Innovate is the only company operating autonomous shuttles on public roads. The newly certified vehicles will be introduced first in Gangneung, Suncheon, and Gyeongju, with plans to expand the autonomous vehicle business.
Lotte Innovate is integrating next-generation intelligent transport systems (C-ITS) technology into its autonomous shuttles to recognize and assess real-time traffic information to control the vehicle. They are also continuously enhancing autonomous driving technology through collaborations with the Korea Automotive Research Institute and participation in government R&D projects.
Jeong In-tae, head of Lotte Innovate’s nDX Business Division, stated, “We will continue research and technological advancements to foster a safe and convenient autonomous driving culture.”