An aerial view of Xiongan New Area. [Photo: Xinhua)

The construction of a new expressway linking Beijing to the Xiongan New Area will begin this year, transport authorities of Beijing said Tuesday.

The two-way eight-lane Jing-Xiong expressway has two inside lanes specially designed for autopilot cars, according to the Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport.

The Beijing section of the expressway starts from the southwest of Beijing, crosses the Yongding River and passes through Fangshan district before connecting with the Hebei section on Beijing's southern border.

The Beijing section is about 27 km long. Experts are studying the possibilities of building digitalized infrastructure and a smart tolling system.

The expressway will also be equipped with rainwater collecting and treatment facilities.