TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's autonomous vehicle industry is accelerating rapidly as companies integrate advanced AI technology with 5G connectivity, positioning the island as a key player in the global smart transportation market.
Following NVIDIA's announcement at COMPUTEX in May to build an AI supercomputer in Taiwan, self-driving shuttle buses are already operating on closed campuses and fixed routes across the island, demonstrating the practical application of this cutting-edge technology.
"LiDAR technology serves as the eyes of self-driving cars, capable of quickly braking or avoiding obstacles," said Chou Tien-hsuan, Public Relations Officer at Kingwaytek Technology Co., Ltd. (勤崴國際). These autonomous buses utilize high-resolution maps and intelligent computer systems, with human attendants present only for emergency situations.
Renee Lin (林映帆), Vice President of Kingwaytek Technology, highlighted the efficiency benefits of autonomous vehicles, particularly in tourist areas. "Driver fatigue and burdens can be reduced by deploying self-driving cars," Lin explained.
"AI plays a crucial role in self-driving technology, meeting the needs of the IC industry," said ARTC Chairman Wang Chen-cheien (王正健).
According to ARTC statistics, Taiwan's automotive electronics output reached NT$492.5 billion (approximately US$16.9 billion) in 2024 and is projected to exceed NT$900 billion (approximately US$30.9 billion) by 2028, potentially becoming a trillion-dollar industry.
The global AI wave has expanded the self-driving technology market to a US$100 trillion scale, requiring vertical integration from technology companies and supportive government policies.
Taiwan's Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC, 交通部) initiated a 5G smart transportation project in 2021, scheduled for completion in August 2025. The project aims to enhance traffic safety and intelligent transportation systems by leveraging Taiwan's abundant high-tech talent and established presence of global supply chain technology companies.
This smart-living technology, dominated by AI applications, represents Taiwan's vision for the future of transportation, building on the island's strengths in semiconductor manufacturing and information technology.