Innovations, Latvia, Markets and Companies, Technology, Telecomunications

Several projects – including the construction of an international test track for self-driving vehicles – are already being implemented, and the government plans to upgrade the country’s legislation to facilitate innovations in the field.

These developments, along with Latvia’s advanced infrastructure, make the country an attractive location for researching and testing self-driving cars. Latvia’s European continental climate, for its part, allows the latest solutions to be tested in all types of weather conditions, including winter ice and snow. 

The test track for self-driving cars is being set up by the leading Latvian telecommunications operator Latvijas Mobilais Telefons, in cooperation with the Riga High Technology University. Latvijas Mobilais Telefons will also provide a suitable communications infrastructure for the trial tests, and is developing a next-generation 5G network to meet the requirements of self-driving cars.

“We have already conducted the first successful tests for self-driving autopilot technology,” says Ingars Ribners, a leading Latvian research scientist.

According to Arvils Ašeradens, the Latvian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Economics, “the government is actively supporting the efforts of businesses to invest in innovations and cutting-edge solutions” by further improving the country’s already attractive legislative framework for startups, research and development.

Minister for Transport Uldis Augulis, for his part, says that “we are continuing to develop self-driving car technology in a targeted manner.” Initial tests on the special track will be followed by the passing of additional legislation to allow self-driving car tests on Latvia’s roads, and by the adaption of the country’s road infrastructure to suit the needs of self-driven vehicles.

“These initiatives will give the country a great case study to present to the International Transport Forum,” he adds.

For several years, Latvia has been among the TOP 10 countries with the fastest Internet connections. Currently, the Baltic nation boasts the world’s second highest mobile internet consumption per capita*. Latvijas Mobilais Telefons’ president Juris Binde, Dr. oec., Dipl. Ing., stresses that “mobile communications networks have a vital role to play in the development of self-driving car solutions. Latvia’s leading global position in regard to technological infrastructure gives it a significant advantage in the establishment of a testing environment where local competencies can be developed, and that is appealing to both foreign investors and startups."