Gyeonggi Province to test remote-controlled shared cars in Pangyo

Gyeonggi Province is set to launch a groundbreaking pilot program for a remote-controlled shared car service in the Pangyo Techno Valley and surrounding areas starting late next month. This initiative marks the first of its kind in South Korea, enabling cars to be delivered to users and retrieved after use without a driver physically present.

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The service allows a remote driver to operate the vehicle while viewing real-time driving footage from a separate 'remote driving control space'.

The system operates by having a remote driver in a "remote driving control space" monitor real-time driving footage. Commands for steering, acceleration, and braking are sent via existing 4G and 5G communication networks, while the vehicle transmits driving video and status information back. Unlike fully autonomous driving, this method leverages existing communication infrastructure and mass-produced vehicles, potentially allowing for faster and more cost-effective service deployment.

This three-month trial, running until the end of December, will assess the technical safety and service viability in a real urban environment. It is being conducted under a special regulatory sandbox for remote driving granted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. Gyeonggi Province plans to explore the potential of this technology for various private and public services, including logistics and mobility support for the elderly and disabled. Furthermore, it could serve as a supplementary technology for autonomous vehicles, offering remote assistance in emergencies or operating vehicles in restricted zones.

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Unlike fully autonomous driving, existing communication networks and mass-produced vehicles can be utilized, allowing for relatively low-cost and rapid service introduction.

Users will book and pay for the service via a dedicated app. Once booked by employees of companies in the Pangyo Techno Valley, a remote driver will deliver the car. The user then drives the vehicle and reports it for return at their destination, after which it will be remotely retrieved. To ensure safety, the trial will proceed in two phases. An initial beta service period from late next month to October will have a safety driver onboard, serving employees of companies in the Gyeonggi Business Growth Center. The second phase, from November to December, aims to operate without a safety driver, expanding service to all employees in the Second Pangyo Techno Valley.

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Through this demonstration, we plan to confirm the potential for application in various private and public services such as shared vehicle delivery/retrieval, logistics, and support for the mobility of the transportation vulnerable.