I. Definition and function
As an important part of the national highway network, national highway refers to the main trunk highway with national political and economic significance, connecting the capital with the capitals of provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the central government, and connecting the main economic centers, port hubs, commodity production bases and strategic places. The main function of national highway is to connect important cities, regions and economic nodes in China and promote domestic trade and personnel flow.
Expressway, on the other hand, refers to a multi-lane expressway specially designed for cars traveling in different directions and lanes, and all access is controlled. Expressway has a high standard of design and construction, usually four lanes or more in both directions, with a central median to restrict non-motor vehicles and pedestrians from entering and crossing other roads in a three-dimensional way. The main function of expressway is to provide a fast, safe and comfortable driving environment to meet the needs of long-distance transportation and rapid traffic.
Second, the design standard and speed limit
The design standard and speed limit of national highway are usually determined according to road grade, traffic flow and other factors. Generally speaking, the speed limit of national highway is low, but the specific speed limit standard will be different due to different regions and sections. The road conditions of national highways may be relatively poor because of disrepair or excessive traffic flow, which requires drivers to maintain a high degree of attention.
Expressway has high design standards and speed limit requirements. Expressway usually adopts advanced engineering technology and materials for construction to ensure the smoothness and durability of roads. At the same time, the speed limit in expressway is usually high, which can meet the demand of high-speed driving. Expressway, on the other hand, has a faster speed, which requires higher skills and reaction speed of drivers.
Three. Fees and service facilities
National highways usually charge no fees or only a small amount of tolls, but the service facilities are relatively few, and there may only be basic gas stations and rest areas.
Expressway usually adopts closed toll collection, and drivers have to pay tolls to use it. At the same time, there are perfect service facilities along expressway, including gas stations, rest areas, restaurants and supermarkets. , to provide convenient services for drivers.
To sum up:
There are obvious differences between National Highway and expressway in definition, function, design standard, speed limit, charge and service facilities. National highways mainly undertake domestic traffic connection and transportation tasks, and expressway pays more attention to providing fast, safe and comfortable driving environment. Both of them play their respective important roles in the transportation system, and together form a perfect highway network in China.
Legal basis:
People's Republic of China (PRC) Highway Law
Article 6 provides that:
According to their position in the road network, highways are divided into national roads, provincial roads, county roads and township roads, and according to their technical levels, they are divided into expressway, first-class highways, second-class highways, third-class highways and fourth-class highways. The specific division standard shall be stipulated by the transportation department of the State Council.