Bangkok: The Department of Science Service (DSS) and PTT are joining forces with the Department of Land Transport to upgrade the safety of connected and autonomous vehicles to international standards. This initiative represents a significant step towards the development and enhancement of vehicle safety in Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, this collaboration was formalized through a cooperation agreement signed by Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport; Mrs. Pojaman Thachin, Deputy Director-General and Acting Director-General of the Department of Science Service; and Mr. Rattikul Piyawongwanich, Senior Vice President for Project Engineering and Operational Excellence, PTT Public Company Limited. The agreement aims to develop and enhance the safety of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) through comprehensive efforts, from research and development to licensing and public confidence. It seeks to establish standards, regulations, and relevant laws in alignment with international standards, while also focusing on human resources development to ensure the safe adoption of modern automotive technology in Thailand.
Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong highlighted the Department of Land Transport's mission to develop and establish standards, regulations, and laws related to vehicles. This mission aims to enhance regulatory oversight and safety standards, align with international norms, and improve safety for drivers, operators, and road users. The goal is to build trust and confidence in vehicle use, aligning with the Ministry of Transport's policy to upgrade the country's transportation system, making it safe, modern, and efficient, and supporting the development of future transportation technologies.
Ms. Pojaman Thachin emphasized the Department of Science Service's role in supporting academic and technical knowledge for the development and improvement of standards and specifications related to CAVs. This includes studying and promoting testing methods, providing academic and technical support for pilot projects, and contributing to knowledge development and capacity building for personnel in the government, industry, and related sectors.
PTT Public Company Limited expressed its belief that this collaboration will lay a crucial foundation for upgrading Thailand's modern automotive ecosystem. The focus will be on testing innovations and preparing infrastructure to ensure that CAV technology is practical, efficient, and meets international standards, ultimately benefiting Thai society.