Fuzhou traffic police have introduced AI-powered autonomous vehicles equipped with L4 self-driving technology to tackle traffic management challenges in bustling commercial districts and popular tourist areas. 

An AI autonomous patrol vehicle in action. [Photo/fznews.com.cn]

These vehicles are currently being piloted on four roads in the Yantai Hill area: Cangqian Road (from Jiefang Bridge to Sanxianzhou Bridge), Nanjiangbin Avenue (from Minjiang Bridge to Jiefang Bridge), Shangteng Road, and Guanjing Road. The initiative aims to create a smarter, more efficient and user-friendly traffic management system.

Fuzhou traffic authorities have long been advancing smart traffic solutions, with technologies such as smart patrol motorcycles and police drones already widely deployed. The new AI autonomous vehicles represent the latest addition to this effort. As mobile, unmanned law enforcement units, they integrate multiple functions, including mobile traffic monitoring checkpoints, 360-degree illegal parking detection, high-definition pan-tilt video surveillance, sonar sensors, laser-based vehicle scanning devices, a 49-inch LED display, and a remote communication system.

The vehicles can patrol roads autonomously, automatically detecting and recording illegal parking. Sonar sensors identify noise violations such as illegal street racing, helping pinpoint disruptive vehicles, while the laser scanning system detects overcrowded vehicles in real time, further strengthening road safety. The onboard LED screen continuously displays traffic safety information, road conditions, and travel tips, promoting dynamic public awareness.

In addition, the AI vehicles feature a convenient one-touch assistance function. When pedestrians activate it, the system immediately connects to a digital traffic police station, enabling real-time communication with staff who can provide directions, answer inquiries or respond to emergencies. Traffic officers can also issue voice reminders for minor violations through the remote communication system, supporting a flexible and people-centered approach to enforcement.

"The Yantai Hill area is one of Fuzhou's most popular cultural and tourism landmarks, with heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic that creates significant management challenges," said a representative from the Traffic Management Bureau of Fuzhou Public Security Bureau. "The deployment of AI autonomous vehicles is expected to effectively address these challenges and enhance overall traffic management in the area."