A self-driving vehicle facilitated by 5G technology debuts at Xianghu scenic area in Hangzhou in April 2019. [Photo/WeChat account: xiaoshanfabu]

The Hangzhou economic and information bureau announced that a new group of 33 roads has been added for the testing of intelligent connected vehicles on Nov 18, local media outlets reported.

Among the 33 roads, seven are in Xiaoshan district, 24 are in Yuhang district, and two are in Lin'an district.

The announcement was made following strict confirmation by third-party professional institutions, expert evaluations, district government confirmation, and research done by the Hangzhou autonomous driving test management joint working group.

Hangzhou announced the first batch of roads for such tests in May 2019, which consisted of five roads that are all located in Future Sci-Tech City in Yuhang district.

As intelligent connected vehicles are emerging in the artificial intelligence market and autonomous driving is gaining more public attention, the addition of 33 roads for ICV tests meets the growing needs of local companies for test roads, as well as reflects the city's goal of attracting more related companies to further boost the industry.

Companies having their cars testing on these roads should first obtain licenses issued by the Hangzhou government. They must also obey relevant rules, regulations, and management requirements.