Autonomous Taxi Service Launch in Gangnam, Seoul: A Complete Guide
Autonomous taxis have officially begun operating in the Gangnam and Seocho areas of Seoul. This marks the first commercialization of an autonomous driving service in the country. Limited to nighttime hours, this pilot program offers free rides to passengers. Let’s dive deeper into how the self-driving technology works and how to use the service.
1. Overview of Autonomous Taxis
- Operating Area: Parts of Gangnam-gu and Seocho-gu in Seoul
- Operating Hours: 11 PM to 5 AM
- Autonomy Level: Level 3
(e.g., The vehicle handles most driving tasks autonomously, but a test driver can intervene when necessary)
The service is designed for nighttime operation to efficiently test the self-driving technology in low-traffic conditions. The taxi is designed to accommodate up to three passengers and is accessible through the Kakao T application.
2. Autonomous Driving Technology: What’s So Special?
1) Advanced Sensors and Cameras
- The vehicle is equipped with multiple LiDAR sensors and high-definition cameras.
- It analyzes road conditions more than 5 times per second, providing real-time assessments.
- Reaction time: Can process within 0.2 seconds, which is about twice as fast as a human.
2) Precision Mapping System
- Even if existing road lane markings are faded or complex, the vehicle identifies routes based on precision maps.
- The onboard driver can take emergency action in unpredictable situations.
3) Handling Complex Traffic Scenarios
- Autonomous vehicles are trained to handle complex situations like right turns, lane changes, and deceleration smoothly.
- Additional intervention from a human driver is provided in special zones like construction sites and school zones.
3. How to Ride and Usage Tips
1) Booking Method
- Open the Kakao T smartphone app and select the “Autonomous Taxi” option.
- You can book a ride by specifying your pickup and drop-off locations.
2) Features
- Currently, rides are free of charge due to the trial operation period until the end of the year.
- The service operates in the late-night hours, which are less crowded, and is planned for improvements based on customer feedback.
3) Precautions
- Minimal in-car manual control is available, and the route cannot be changed mid-journey.
- Service availability is limited by area, so it is necessary to check the operational map before booking.
4. Expected Benefits and Future Prospects
1) Improved Traffic Efficiency
- It relieves driver fatigue during late-night hours and provides a foundation for more people to access safe and convenient transportation.
2) Technological Advancement
- Real-world road trials help improve technological issues and eventually aim for nationwide expansion.
- Learning predictable driving patterns to reduce accidents.
3) Long-Term Plans: Monetization and Service Expansion
- After the free operation ends, plans for a paid service are underway, and expansion to more urban areas and daytime hours is being discussed.
Key Takeaways
- Where does it operate? Parts of Gangnam-gu and Seocho-gu in Seoul.
- When can I use it? From 11 PM to 5 AM.
- Do I just need my smartphone? Yes, you can easily book through the Kakao T app.
- Is it free? Yes, it’s currently free until the end of the year.
- Crafted by Billy Yang
[Related articles at Next-Korea.com]
*Source : [SBS 뉴스] “생각보다 아찔아찔한데요”…국내 첫 자율주행 택시, 오늘 밤부터 운행 시작 / SBS 8뉴스
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