The Czech Republic is planning further steps towards autonomous mobility. A working group has prepared legislative changes that will allow the operation of level 3 automated vehicles on selected roads. After a long focus on EU emission targets and the promotion of electric mobility, the focus is now shifting back to automated driving. This is not only an exciting topic that fascinates (or concerns) both technology experts and the public, but also a central trend in transportation.
After the automotive industry and the governments of European countries – particularly the Czech Republic – concentrated on achieving EU emission targets and promoting electric mobility for so long, automated driving is now receiving increased attention again.
This is not just an exciting topic that both technology experts and the public find fascinating (or concerning), but a key trend in the transport sector. Once all challenges have been overcome, it could not only enhance comfort for users but also optimise traffic flow and, most importantly, reduce the number of accidents. In addition, numerous business opportunities will arise for the private sector and the development of new mobility solutions.
While fully autonomous driving at levels 4 and 5 is still a distant goal in the Czech Republic, the introduction of lower automation levels is now almost within reach. However, it remains an extremely complex issue that must not only be solved technically but also legislated.
The Action Plan for the Future of the Automotive Industry, published in 2017, already provided an initial overview of the measures required to bring autonomous vehicles onto the roads. This plan was part of a memorandum on the future of the Czech automotive industry, signed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Automotive Industry Association.
In April of last year, the Czech government presented a strategic document: the Autonomous Mobility Plan. The aim is to create a favourable environment for the development and operation of automated vehicles by 2025, with a vision for 2030. The initiative aims to strengthen the Czech Republic’s position as a leading location for research, development, and testing of automated systems in Central Europe.
This includes the establishment of test environments for automated vehicles, the creation of a cybersecurity platform, and the development of a legal framework for the operation of level 3 vehicles. The plan also promotes research and innovation, international cooperation, and addresses ethical issues as well as accident analysis.
In addition, the plan seeks to improve public awareness, increase acceptance of autonomous mobility, and train professionals for this field.
According to the Czech Automotive Industry Association, the current focus is on level 3 vehicles, which can take over driving for a limited time on certain stretches of road. The introduction of fully autonomous vehicles (level 5) is not yet part of the current legislation.
The working group consists of officials from the Ministry of Transport and the police, as well as representatives from companies such as TÜV SÜD, Škoda Auto, Valeo, and the Automotive Industry Association.
