China has completed the construction of the world’s first laboratory designed to simulate extreme traffic and weather conditions for autonomous vehicle testing. The 5,000-square-meter facility, operated by the China Merchants Testing Vehicle Technology Research Institute (CMVR) in Chongqing, allows automakers to push their advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to the limit in controlled, repeatable scenarios.
Advanced Capabilities
The lab uniquely combines vehicle dynamics, realistic traffic flow, and adjustable climate conditions. It can replicate dense fog – with visibility shifting from 10 meters to 1 kilometer within half an hour – heavy rainfall, and varied lighting, including dawn, dusk, and overcast skies. Vehicles can be tested at speeds up to 130 km/h, exceeding the industry standard of 100 km/h. This high-speed capability is achieved through an advanced drag system, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
Realistic Simulations
The facility doesn’t just replicate weather; it also simulates unpredictable human behavior. The lab can recreate scenarios with pedestrians emerging suddenly from blind spots, mirroring real-world hazards. CMVR General Manager Fan Hailong highlighted that this capability is crucial for evaluating how ADAS systems respond to complex situations.
Why This Matters
China’s investment in this testing infrastructure is strategic. The country is rapidly becoming a global leader in autonomous vehicle development, and rigorous testing is essential for safety and reliability. The lab addresses a key bottleneck in ADAS validation: real-world testing is costly, time-consuming, and carries inherent risks.
“This lab allows for large-scale, all-weather testing of intelligent cars,” said CMVR officials.
CMVR’s Expansion
CMVR is a state-backed high-tech enterprise serving over 2,700 clients across China. In addition to the Chongqing facility, it operates sub-centers in East, South, and North China, a cold-weather testing base in Heihe, and several subsidiaries. Changan was the first automaker to utilize the lab, testing its Nevo A06 EV sedan on February 9th.
The completion of this facility signifies China’s commitment to autonomous driving innovation. As the technology matures, expect to see more advanced testing facilities emerge globally to ensure safety and accelerate development.
