The first phase of the comprehensive national intelligent transport test base begins operations recently. [Photo/wxrb.com]

The first phase of the comprehensive national intelligent transport test base, located at the junction of East Shanshui Road and Qingyuan Road in Wuxi's Binhu district, began operations recently, local media reported on Nov 14.

The test base covers 140,000 square meters and will provide auto manufacturers with a place to test the safety and emergency performance capabilities of self-driving cars.

Self-driving cars can be tested at the base in six closed testing areas that simulate normal roads, highways, urban roads, ring roads and indoor areas. Parking spaces for self-driving cars, charging posts and simulated refueling areas are also available at the base.

The testing area simulating urban roads is 1,090 meters long, and is made up of two main avenues, five branch roads and various kinds of crossroads. Elements such as traffic signals, street lamps, green belts, sidewalks and gas stations have been built to make the test roads look like real roads.

An example of self-driving cars. [Photo/WeChat account: news-wuxixinwen]

Officials also said that of the 19 test areas around the country, the Wuxi base is the only one that tests the operational safety of vehicles.

Testing data collected at the base will determine whether self-driving cars can drive normally, adequately avoid risks, recognize traffic signals and ensure safety. Vehicles that pass all the tests will be put into mass production, officials said.

According to officials, the revenue of the internet of vehicles industry in Wuxi is expected to exceed 20 billion yuan ($2.8 billion) during the 14th five year period (2021-2025), with over 200 related enterprises operating in Wuxi.

Construction of the second phase of the testing center will start in the second half of 2021.