The national efforts for the ITS research and development which started in 1970 has been fostered since the latter 1980s with the advanced technology development as a backbone. The efforts led to the passage of a "new stage" of the practical applications to make ITS a reality in 1995. The "new stage" is explicitly declared in Government Comprehensive Guidelines, and is supported by a steep increase in the national budget for ITS R&D and for the establishment of the research promotion organizations. Implementation of VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) which accommodates the user's needs is also evidence of progress in ITS development. The substantial progress achieved in various projects such as AHS (Automated Highway System) and ETC (Electronic Throttle Control) ensures the participation of industries. Aggressive international partnership is critically important to continue fostering ITS activities.
Samenvatting