From July 2026, Ho Chi Minh City will deploy a controlled test (sandbox) of a level 4 self-driving car model at Quang Trung Software Park (QTSC). This is considered the first step to assess the applicability of self-driving car technology in actual conditions, and at the same time create a basis for perfecting mechanisms and policies to develop this field.
The project is registered for implementation by 365 Group Co., Ltd., with the coordination of the 4th Industrial Revolution Center in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC C4IR). Quang Trung Software Park Development Co., Ltd. is the unit that approves and arranges infrastructure for testing within the QTSC internal area.
According to HCMC C4IR, the deployment will be carried out after completing the registration dossier for the sandbox testing mechanism. On June 3, 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology confirmed that the dossier met the requirements according to regulations. A day later, Quang Trung Software Park Development Co., Ltd. issued a document approving the enterprise to deploy the testing.
This activity takes place in the context of Ho Chi Minh City promoting the development of science, technology, innovation and digital transformation, and at the same time implementing Resolution No. 20/2024/NQ-HĐND of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Council on supporting controlled trials of new technology solutions at high-tech zones and concentrated information technology zones.
According to the registered plan, self-driving vehicles will operate within the closed scope of QTSC for 3 months. This is a research project, applying level 4 self-driving vehicle technology, high automation level, vehicles can operate themselves in identified conditions and areas without direct drivers.
The test model not only includes self-driving vehicles but also integrates an operating center, remote monitoring system, data collection and analysis platform, along with safety management mechanisms and evaluation processes serving state management agencies. The entire operation process is limited to a geographically defined area, combining multiple layers of remote monitoring and control to ensure safety throughout the test period.
According to HCMC C4IR, putting level 4 self-driving cars into testing in the actual infrastructure and operating environment of Ho Chi Minh City will help assess the level of safety, adaptability to infrastructure and traffic conditions, and create a basis for perfecting technology, promoting transfer and commercialization.
The test results will also be the basis for management agencies to research and improve mechanisms, policies and legal frameworks for self-driving car technology, contributing to realizing the policy of developing science, technology, innovation and digital transformation according to Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW.
The project is implemented according to a public-private partnership model. In which, HCMC C4IR plays the role of coordinating and connecting businesses, management agencies and international partners; QTSC provides infrastructure and testing space; and 365 Group Co., Ltd. is responsible for deploying self-driving vehicles and technology systems.
According to participating units, after the pilot phase ends, the results will be summarized and evaluated to advise Ho Chi Minh City to study expanding the sandbox model for self-driving vehicle technology as well as other strategic technologies, contributing to building an innovative ecosystem and attracting high-tech investment in the coming time.
