KPMG "COVID-19 Accelerates Adoption of Autonomous Vehicles"

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jihwan] It has been analyzed that the introduction of autonomous vehicles (AV) will accelerate due to the impact of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

Global accounting and consulting firm KPMG announced the '2020 KPMG AVRI (Autonomous Vehicle Readiness Index)' on the 15th and presented this outlook.

According to KPMG, among the 25 countries that compiled the AVRI last year, the AVRI scores of 17 countries increased this year, indicating a trend of significantly strengthening readiness for autonomous vehicle introduction in many countries. In particular, two-thirds of the AVRI surveyed countries have approved zones for autonomous vehicle testing, and AV test zones are also expanding.

Published for the third time this year, the AVRI evaluates the progress of autonomous vehicle development and innovation through 28 detailed indicators included in four categories: policy and legislation, technology and innovation, infrastructure, and consumer acceptance.

The country best prepared for introduction was selected as Singapore. Singapore announced national standards for autonomous vehicles and has opened 10% of its roads for autonomous vehicle testing. It also plans to increase the number of electric vehicle charging stations from 1,600 to 28,000 by 2030.

The Netherlands, which has the highest number of electric vehicle charging stations per capita, scored high in infrastructure and policy and legislation, ranking second. Norway, which established driverless bus routes and raised speed limits for unmanned vehicles, ranked third. In addition, the United States, Finland, Sweden, and Korea were ranked within the top 10.

Korea recorded the largest increase, rising six places from the previous year to 7th place. It received high scores in infrastructure areas such as broadband including 4G network coverage and mobile communication speed.

KPMG expects that the introduction of autonomous vehicles will receive the most attention in private cars and taxi services in the future. In particular, it predicted expansion of use in closed environments such as freight, ports, and mining areas.

Kim Hyojin, Executive Director and Infrastructure Industry Leader at Samjong KPMG, explained, "In situations like COVID-19, the role of unmanned vehicles as means of transporting personnel and goods can expand," adding, "Demand for contactless delivery using transport AVs will also increase."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.