A demonstration to verify the wireless charging function of self-driving electric vehicles will be promoted through a regulatory sandbox. A demonstration of unmanned submarines equipped with hydrogen fuel cells will also be conducted.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on the 30th reviewed and approved the control of 66 industrial convergence regulatory sandboxes, including mobility and hydrogen, at the '2025 2nd Industrial Convergence Regulatory Special Committee'.
In the mobility sector, a demonstration will be conducted where a vehicle that moves to the charging zone in a parking lot using an automatic valet parking function is wirelessly charged and then moved to an idle space. This is a project proposed by the Korea Automobile Research Institute, and it is anticipated that the full automation of the parking and charging process of self-driving electric vehicles will enhance user convenience. Under the current 'Eco-Friendly Vehicle Act', only wired charging methods are recognized for eco-friendly vehicle charging facilities, making wireless charging impossible.
In the hydrogen sector, the Agency for Defense Development will conduct a demonstration of unmanned submarines equipped with hydrogen fuel cells. Kia will demonstrate a mobile hydrogen fuel cell generator that can swiftly supply power in field and emergency situations.
Under the current 'Hydrogen Act', mobile hydrogen fuel cells cannot be used as there are no standards for manufacturing and inspection, except for drones and forklifts. Submarines equipped with hydrogen fuel cells are expected to significantly increase their underwater time compared to those equipped only with secondary batteries. The hydrogen fuel cell generator has less noise compared to conventional diesel generators, reducing the risk of detection. It is expected to enhance military operational capabilities and contribute to securing advanced defense technology.
Jae Kyung-hee, director of the Industrial Technology Convergence Policy Bureau, said, “We will continue to support the demonstration and market introduction of new technologies in various fields so that the public can feel the effects of regulatory improvements.”